Maternity Jacket

Date1780-1795

MediumCotton quilted to cotton with linen thread; cotton batting; lined with linen tabby; trimmed with linen fringe

DimensionsOL: 20" waist: 27" (when laced edge to edge)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1936-666,3

DescriptionJacket belonging to three-piece maternity ensemble of quilted white cotton with thin cotton wadding and coarse cotton backing. Jacket is tight fitting with center lacing; cut short in front allowing points of vest to extend below natural waistline. Untrimmed low neckline. Back of jacket is shaped to fit closely, then flared into full pleated and gathered peplum 'skirt,' ending with deep point at center back waist. Long fitted sleeves have vent at wrist, each closed with three linen covered buttons. Trimmed with 3/4" looped linen fringe. Jacket designed to be laced over under vest, which expands waistline to accommodate pregnancy.

Construction History:

1. 1780-1795: Initial Construction
2. February 17, 1954: Repairs by Ernest LoNano
Label TextThis woman's jacket was part of a three-piece maternity ensemble (see 1936-666, 1 and 2). The jacket could be worn alone without the expansion vest (#2) after the baby was born, a practical alternative in an era when clothing textiles were expensive. Like the other two pieces, the jacket was made from an old bed quilt that was cut up and reused to make the garments.