chemises pieced from a narrow piece of rough cloth; while the rich might have voluminous chemises pieced from thin, smooth fine linen. Modern chemise A modern chemise is generally a woman's garment that vaguely resembles the older shirts but is typically more delicate, and usually more revealing. Most commonly the term refers to a loose-fitting, sleeveless undergarment or type of lingerie which is unfitted at the waist. It can also refer to a short, sleeveless dress that hangs straight from the shoulders and fits loosely at the waist. A chemise typically does not have any buttons or other fasteners and is put on by either dropping it over the head or stepping into it and lifting it up. As lingerie, a chemise is similar to a babydoll, which is also a short, loose-fitting, sleeveless garment. Typically, though, babydolls are looser fitting at the hips. See also Camisole Kirtle Shalwar kameez Slip (clothing) Smock (disambiguation) References Bibliography . A survey of shirt patterns over the ages, with diagrams. Further reading External links Lingerie History of clothing (Western fashion) Medieval European costume Tops (clothing) French clothing Women's clothing