The Invention of Lingerie

   Technically, camisole tunic is one thing named twice. Camisole takes its origins and forms from Roman tunic, and Roman tunic, in its turn, takes its roots from Greek chiton. So, camisole tunic, camisole, tunic, and chemise are all synonyms to the Greek word chiton. Tunic was reinvented in the 18th century in France and started to represent simple, sleeveless, ankle-length, natural lingerie for women. It protected women's bodies and dresses from sweat and dirt, and therefore was a great part of women's hygiene. As a matter of fact, camisole tunic was the only garment that was washed regularly by women in the 18th century. Comparing the bright and fun floral camisole tunic of the 21st century to the three hundred year old French camisole tunic, the last was usually made of simple natural cotton muslin and, therefore, was solid of color. Moreover, French camisoles were rarely made of expensive fabrics even for aristocratic women while contemporary camisoles are decorated with lace and are made of the semi-translucent best quality solid or printed silk, satin, or cotton. In addition, modern nightwear camisole tunics, babydolls, have become shorter in length, responding to the fashion shifts of 1970's. On the other hand, old camisoles like present chemises were usually made of natural materials such as cotton, linen, or silk for their valuable properties.