Historical Underwear

My new short story bundle is now available on www.kindlebooks.co.za. It will also be avaible on Amazon later as well as the new e-reads website as soon as it is ready.

This book was born when I did research for a novel set against the background of the Anglo Boer War. I stumbled upon so many interesting characters, stories and events that it was and is impossible to include all of it in one novel.


For me, half the fun of writing a historical novel is the research. While doing research for the novel, which gave birth to the above mentioned short story bundle, I realised how many aspects of daily life we take for granted. Clothes, for instance.


The novel will span a period from the 1870's to approximately 1902. During research I decided to order two victorian corsets to feel what my female characters would when wearing these garments for the larger part of the day. Yolindie Botha at Lollipop Lingerie proved to be of great help in obtaining the said corsets.

Antique lace corset, 1890.
www.salonofthedames.com

The research results: Although it is exquisite garments and tends to look rather sensual on some woman (that is those with breasts) it is extremely uncomfortable. Hard to breathe, almost impossible to dress oneself and wonderful for a rod straight posture because you will be poked somewhere if you slouch.


That being said - it is still and will always remain beautiful, sensual (if impractical and uncomfortable) garments.


It must have been stiffling warm in these beautiful undergarments. They usually wore the corset, and then a corset cover. Underneath the corset was worn a shift. Then came the petticoats! And only then the clothes!

Left: example of corset cover and petticoats.
www.metmuseum.org

Two examples of . corset covers and petticoats.
blog.theknot.com

exactgowns.blogspot.com
Example of turn of the century corset cover

Ecxuisite example of lace petticoat.
teacupcakes.tumblr.com

When you read the short story bundle or eventually the novel (or any other novel set during the Victorian era) I trust you will envision these lovely underwear, even though no mention is made of it and that this knowledge will enhance your reading experience and enjoyment!