Pantalettes were long underwear worn by women and children in the 19th century to cover bare legs. They were made with ruffles or lace and were meant to be seen. In the 20th century, they were shortened and came in different styles. Little boys also wore them until they were 12 years old.
Pantalettes were longer underwear worn by women and children during the 19th century. These undergarments fell below the hemline of dresses or trousers and were worn to conceal a bare leg. At the time when pantalettes were in fashion, it was not socially acceptable to leave the knees or ankles visible. Undergarments were initially made long to cover the entire leg, but as the century progressed they became shorter to just below the knee. They were made with ruffles or lace added to the bottom of the pants for an elegant look, but they were also made in simple styles.
It is a mistake to think that panties were used as underwear. They were designed to be incorporated into a general ensemble. For example, if a woman’s dress was not going to cover the knee area, pantalettes were worn not only to cover the knee, but to add a touch of color and style to the dress. Decorated with elegant ribbons that often matched the color of the dress, these garments were meant to be seen. Little boys also wore shorts if their pants didn’t cover their knees.
The materials used to make pantalettes varied depending on who they were made for. Women’s undergarments were generally made from silk or linen. Smaller girls could be seen in linen or cotton, and boys’ panties were made of cotton, linen, or the same material as the rest of the ensemble. Most of these undergarments were made from white material, but were occasionally seen in different colors.
In the 20th century, pantalettes could still be seen in America and Europe. During this time, many more style variations were created. The undergarment was shortened considerably and reached the inner thigh. White linen or silk tops were added to pantalette bottoms for complete undergarments. Buttons or laces were also added for comfort.
Little boys in the mid-19th century wore dresses until they were 12 years old. Skirts also came into fashion during this time period, so undergarments were needed. They came in the same styles for little boys and girls and it was up to the mother to choose one that was acceptable. Even today, these types of frilly underwear can still be found and purchased.
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