Parlets

Although reproduction partlets are often made as full chemises with open fronts, in period they were usually made to cover just the open neckline. It would be worn in addition to a regular chemise and gathers into a high neckline with an often elaborate and ornamented collar that fastens in the front. It would then tie under the arms underneath the gown. The partlet was often open down the front, so it could be worn open at the neckline, or closed. Lore has it that the partlet would be worn open by maidens and closed by married ladies.