Baby's first shirt
Category
Costume
Date
circa 1840 - circa 1860
Materials
Cotton
Measurements
240 mm (length)
Collection
Sudbury Hall Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire
NT 658446
Summary
A baby's first shirt or chemise made from plain white cotton (circa 1840 to circa 1860). The main part of the bodice is constructed with a single piece of fabric, which folds over double at the back. The shirt fastens at the back with a linen covered button. At the front and back are two square flaps. When worn these fold down to protect the baby from any material which may rub on the skin. The sleeves have lace trims and linen covered buttons attached to the top. The bodice and sleeves have areas of staining and foxing.