Undergarments
Shift
The shift, a lose-fitting dress made out of linen, is the first layer. It absorbs body oils and sweat protecting the outer garments.
Stays
Stays, the 18th-century precursor to corsets, provided structure and support. This c. 1760’s pair is made out of linen fabric, boned with reed, and finished with linen tapes
Hoops and Rumps
Pocket hoops, or panniers, gave the skirts the almost rectangular 18th-century silhouette. For a less extravagant shape, bum pads and rumps stuffed with feathers or cotton were tied around the waist.
Petticoats
Women would wear from two to five petticoats depending on the weather. These came in all types of fabrics and colors and could be quilted, embroidered, or decorated with ruffles.