I have some absolutely lovely cream colored silk that is just the right weight for a chemise. It's not sheer but it looks like it's about two steps removed from being organza. It would look lovely under some 16th century gowns except....I can't find where there any mentions of silk chemises! I've seen partlets but not smocks!
Does anyone recall anything about silk chemises or smocks in the 16th century? I've looked in Janet Arnold's array of books and all it says is linen with silk embroidery -no actual silk smocks/chemises. Even if you don't know, any suggestions on where to ask? I'm looking for "this extant garment" or "right in this inventory" type documentation not just the "because s/he said so!"
Does anyone recall anything about silk chemises or smocks in the 16th century? I've looked in Janet Arnold's array of books and all it says is linen with silk embroidery -no actual silk smocks/chemises. Even if you don't know, any suggestions on where to ask? I'm looking for "this extant garment" or "right in this inventory" type documentation not just the "because s/he said so!"