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.
1780-1795
1780-1795
1780-1800
1750-1775
1780-1790
1790-1800
Ca. 1780, remade 1795-1800
1760-1770
ca. 1750
ca. 1740
1780-1790
1750-1770; shortened later