Really easy way to get a handsewn T-tunic: Buy one of the heavy French
linen chemises regularly sold by sellers on Etsy. They are sometimes
labeled as nightgowns, sometimes labeled as hemp (maybe they are, but I
suspect poor translation), sometimes labeled as "metis" (apparently a
linen/cotton blend), sometimes labeled as handwoven which I don't think
they are, but they *are* often (not always) completely hand sewn. They
are sometimes labeled as Regency or Georgian but the tradition cut hung
on and most are likely late 19th or early 20th century. The necklines
tend to be round or square, but not V. Sometimes there is a front slit,
sometimes not. Some have sleeves, some are sleeveless. Prices vary, but
are often reasonable (especially for a hand sewn garment in good
condition). I recently bought a lot of four for $40 on eBay.
Here is one:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/127568458/french-nightgown-thick-rustic-metis?ref=sr_gallery_41&ga_search_query=chemise&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_order=date_desc&ga_page=0&ga_search_type=vintage
There are enough of these regularly for sale (especially on Etsy) from
different vendors, and all apparently French, that I suspect some kind
of common institutional use, boarding schools or convents or hospitals,
perhaps. These chemises are practically bulletproof. They are always in
great condition in my experience, and they machine dye beautifully in
Procion dyes. I personally think wearing one either as an undergarment
crammed under a corset (which was usual for chemises at the time they
were made), or as a nightgown over bare skin, would be uncomfortable.
Apparently, at the time these were made plenty of French women
disagreed. These are, however, great worn as dresses or tunics over
another garment. You can decorate them with braid, embroidery, what you
fancy. You will probably need to add a piece to enlarge the sleeves.
Fran
Lavolta Press
Books on making historic clothing
www.lavoltapress.com
www.facebook.com/LavoltaPress
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