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DS1996-0050
Maternity Waistcoat
DS1996-0050

Maternity Waistcoat

Date1780-1795
OriginEngland
MediumCotton quilted to cotton with linen thread; cotton batting; linen trim
DimensionsOL: 20"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1936-666,2
DescriptionUnder vest belonging to three-piece ensemble of quilted white cotton with thin cotton wadding and coarse cotton backing. Under waistcoat is sleeveless with high neckline. Open, straight front extends to shaped points below natural waist. Only front panels and back shoulder area are quilted in diamond pattern; lower back panel is plain cotton with worked eyelets to adjust size. Seams turned out. Garment is intended to wear under jacket to fill in enlarging waistline of pregnancy.

Construction History:

1. 1780-1795: Initial Construction
2. February 17, 1954: Repairs by Ernest LoNano
Label TextPregnant and nursing women had to alter and adapt their usual clothing to accommodate their condition. This sleeveless vest was part of a clever maternity ensemble that also included a jacket and a petticoat (see 1936-666, 1 and 3). The sleeveless vest, which has adjustable lacings at the center back, was worn under the jacket and expanded the waist size for use during pregnancy. The ensemble was useful during many stages of a woman's life, as the vest could be omitted and the jacket worn alone after the child was born.

2009 Record shot by L. Baumgarten. Waistcoat.
1780-1800
2009 Record shot by L. Baumgarten. Waistcoat.
1780-1790
1960-711, Waistcoat
1790-1800
Bodice 1947-510,1
Ca. 1780, remade 1795-1800
2011 Record shot
1760-1770
1989-431, Waistcoat
ca. 1750
1991-476, Waistcoat
ca. 1740
2009 Record shot by L. Baumgarten. Waistcoat.
1750-1770; shortened later