Satin Chemises

It is interesting that in today’s culture the satin chemise has become an item of lingerie that is almost decorative, as it’s role in history is far more functional. The chemise began it’s life as an undergarment, worn between the elaborate fashions from the Renaissance onward, and was used to protect expensive clothes from sweat and contact with the body. In fact, in the less than perfect hygiene world of history, it was the only item of clothing that was washed regularly, and except for the extremely rich, was made out of spare material and not cut to a deliberate pattern.

All of this makes the modern-day chemise that is so popular really quite astounding; from functional to fabulous in just a few centuries. Figures from history would find a chemise being made of a delicate material such as satin a complete anomaly.

Thankfully, in these modern times we no longer need to wear garments just for the purpose of protecting clothes. With the improvement of hygiene, the chemise has been able to evolve into a highly desirable item of lingerie used for nothing but looking nice – hallelujah for scientific advancement!

The satin chemise as we know it today is best described as a long, loose, sleeveless garment that is most frequently used as nightwear. Occasionally, some chemises are designed to be worn as an extra layer when it’s particularly cold, but these cases are rare. The modern chemise is made of materials known for their beauty, such as satin, and it’s primary purpose is aesthetic. They are also mainly provocative garments, due to their loose fit but delicate make up, which indicate what is beneath without giving too much away – an exercise in modesty while still showing skin and the curve of a woman’s body. Many women find them very comfortable and the satin chemise can be a very attractive garment.

Satin chemises are often fitted with adornments. Slogans have become increasingly popular, usually something cheekily suggestive or something to do with sleep, as the two main purposes of the satin chemise are seduction and rest. Glitter, lace and even feathers are also regular features. There is no real supportive element to the chemise, so in terms of general day-wear it in inappropriate, and even has a protective layer has been replaced by slips. To achieve any bodily support, a chemise would need to be worn with a bra, which slightly defeats the object of a loose-fitting, simple garment.

While this change in use did see a dip in the popularity of the chemise, it has re-emerged as a type of night-dress that is particularly insubstantial and therefore associated with erotic intent. When made from a material like satin, after all, what hot-blooded male could possibly resist? The satin chemise is a thing of beauty despite it’s rather unsavory past and is now a regular feature in any designer lingerie set, and is available at a multitude of stores across London and the UK.