chemise
shuh-MEEZ
/ʃəˈmiːz/
A woman's loose-fitting, shirt-like undergarment or nightdress, typically made of lightweight, delicate fabric.
Historically a plain, protective linen tunic, the modern chemise is a luxurious, delicate slip-like nightgown, often featuring lace trim and thin straps.
The story behind the word. The chemise is one of the oldest surviving garment terms. For centuries, it was the only piece of clothing that was regularly washed, protecting expensive outer silks and wools from body oils. It was so universal that to be left 'in one's chemise' meant to be completely ruined or stripped of all possessions.
Word relationships
- slip: A slip is worn under a dress to prevent static and transparency, while a chemise is typically worn on its own as sleepwear or luxury loungewear.
- nightgown: A nightgown can be long, heavy, and utilitarian, whereas a chemise is short, lightweight, and delicate.
Commonly confused with
- camisole: A camisole is waist-length and worn under tops; a chemise is thigh-length and worn as a dress or nightwear.
Word family
- chemisette (noun): A small, neck-filling insert worn under a low-cut dress to mimic a chemise collar.
Collocations
- silk chemise
- satin chemise
- lace chemise
- night chemise
Example sentences
- "She packed a silk chemise and a matching lace robe for her honeymoon." A description of a bridal trousseau.
- "Both men and women in the Middle Ages wore a linen chemise as a washable barrier beneath their heavy woolen outer garments." A historical study of medieval dress.
Memory hook
Sounds like 'she meets'. Imagine a woman wearing a beautiful silk chemise when 'she meets' her partner for a cozy evening. Chemise: A soft, loose slip that feels like a breeze.
When not to use
Do not use to describe structured, tight-fitting shapewear or modern athletic tank tops.
Fun facts
- Marie Antoinette caused a massive public scandal in 1783 when she was painted wearing a simple white cotton dress that resembled a chemise, which critics claimed looked like she was posing in her underwear.
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