My 18th century jacket is finally finished! Yay! I sewed the last two seams just some minutes before we took the photos! 😉
This type of jacket is called a bedgown or short gown.
Short gowns were considered undress in the 18th century. Undress or informal wear – the everyday clothes of the 18th century – was worn around the house while doing the work.
I used an old bedsheet for the bedgown because I liked the washed-out color and the linen-like texture of the old, torn sheet.
I like how the bedgown turned out and it’s really comfortable to wear.
The bedgown fastens down the front with pins. 18th century gowns were usually closed with pins, hooks and eyes or spiral lacing.

I forgot to pack my fichu and had to use a bed sheet instead! 😀 Shhh, don’t tell anyone, lol! 😉


I’m wearting the short gown with my 18th century linen skirt. I love the fabric of the skirt! It was expensive but it has such a beautiful texture – I sometimes use the linen skirt as backdrop for my photo! 😉
>> Click To Pin This Costume <<
I love the tucks down the back! Do you make your own patterns, or buy vintage ones? You look so darling in this outfit! Thanks for sharing with SYC.
hugs,
Jann
Thanks Jann! 🙂 I make my own patterns.
Hello Linda,
I want to get into historical sewing, and I have one pattern for a Short Gown. The instructions do not mention if the Short Gown is to be lined or not, and if they are lined, would it be flat or bag lined?
Thank you,
Sandie
Both lined and unlined short gowns existed in the 18th century. My short gown is unlined. If you want to line it, in the 18th century the lining and outer fabric were usually treated as if it was just one fabric (flatlined). Instead of flatlining, the English stitch seam was also often used. Hope this helps! 🙂
I love this look Lena, especially from the back. Those en fourreau pleats are so flattering. Just one question though, don’t the pins stab you in the tummy when you bend down?
Thanks Michelle! You wear a chemise, stays and fichu underneath, so no, the pins don’t stab you in the tummy! 😉
It’s always fascinating to read your explanation of how these vintage styles work – thanks so much for sharing with Party in Your PJs!
Thanks Lynda!
This looks amazing, I’m so impressed with the beautiful vintage outfits you are able to produce. Just lovely.
Thank you Julie!
I am in awe of your sewing skills and love your explanation. I was mesmerised by the old world look and how well it suits you. The jacket is very interesting with the way it joins at the front and the please at the back. I really enjoyed this and thanks for sharing with us at The Blogger’s Pit Stop – Debbie from Deb’s World
Thanks Debbie! 🙂
Pretty! I admire your skills. Thanks for joining the To Grandma’s House We Go link party!
Thanks for stopping by!
Beautiful and graceful vintage outfit. The details along the back are gorgeous. You are obviously very gifted.
Thanks Leanna!