Date: c. 1930s
Origin: United States
Fabric: Silk satin and corded lace
Brand: Unknown, likely custom made
A delicate peignoir constructed from a base of silk satin with profuse corded lace appliqué and trims, silk appliqués and embroidery. The full volume skirt is seamed both horizontally and on the bias, for a voluminous cut without excess fabric waste. The short sleeves use the lace scallop as a finished edge, with a wraparound slit at the top of each arm. The peignoir fastens with three silk rouleau loops and silk covered buttons at the centre front.
The peignoir was popularized in the late 19th century, intended as a lightweight jacket to wear over undergarments whilst dressing hair (the word itself comes from the French ‘peigner’, to comb). By the 1930s, peignoirs were often made from lightweight or sheer fabrics, and would often be worn as part of high-end nightwear or lingerie ensembles.
From the collection of Karolina Laskowska
