Regency drawers for a lady

I usually go without drawers in my Regency reenactments, they were rather risque in the period after all, better to wear nothing at all LOL!

Some of my recent gowns, particular my white sheer muslin, have been too 'see through' and I felt rather too 'exposed' so I have been wearing my 1850s pantelletes.

"Drawers came into fashion about 1806. and were first made along the lines of the masculine article, the waistband drawn together by back lacing. The leg was either tubular or drawn into a band below the knee." Willet, C and Cunnington, Phillis. The history of underclothes. 1992, p.112.

Stockinette drawers were very popular for women as they provided warmth and modesty while appearing fashionable. I'm also sure they were comfy and practical.

My drawers are very simple, I made the following style ...

"In some cases the two legs were constructed as separate items, [but] were inadequately held in place ..."

"... My finest dimity pair with real Swiss lace is quite useless to me for I lost one leg and did not deem it proper to pick it up, and so walked off leaving it in the street behind me and the lace had cost me 6 shillings a yard. I saw that mean Mrs Spring wearing it last week in a tucker ..." Willet, C and Cunnington, Phillis. The history of underclothes. 1992, p. 114

 ... so to save myself the embarrassment of the lady above, I attached a drawstring waistband. 

I used a basic pants pattern to get the shape, stitched up two leg tubes, joined the front pants with a short seam. I used french seams throughout. Next I attached the waist band, no falling legs for me, I threaded it with a blue ribbon which will be changed for white.

They feel comfy and work well, though stockinette would be even more comfy. It took about 4 hours all up. Here are the piccies.

Front

Side

Back

Front showing the split

Back showing split