A Close Look at Amish Women's Undergarments and Nightwear

An Introduction to Amish Undergarments

The Amish are a traditional Christian group known for their plain clothing and rejection of modern conveniences. Amish clothing styles have remained largely unchanged for centuries, with minor variations between different Amish communities. A question that often comes up regarding Amish garb is: what kind of undergarments do Amish women wear under their modest dresses?

The Role of Modesty in Amish Culture

Modesty is a core value in Amish culture, reflecting their desire to live simply and avoid vanity. Amish women typically wear calf-length dresses with long sleeves and a full coverage apron over top. The style of dress varies slightly between different Amish affiliations, but all are designed to be practical, humble garments that cover the body.

When it comes to undergarments, the emphasis remains on providing coverage while avoiding intricacy or ornamentation. The specific undergarments worn by Amish women are not usually visible or discussed openly. However, historical accounts and firsthand reports provide some insight into common Amish lingerie choices.

Amish Underwear and Intimate Apparel

Amish underwear is designed to be sturdy, opaque, and devoid of lace, frills or colorful patterns. Most Amish communities permit only white or off-white undergarments. Plain cotton bras and underwear are the norm.

Some distinctive aspects of Amish lingerie choices include:

• Full coverage bras - Padding and underwire are avoided
• Cotton panties or bloomers - Styles that minimally show the form
• Camisoles or slips - For additional coverage over the bra and torso
• Dark stockings - Usually plain black or brown colors
• Handmade and mended garments
• All one neutral color

While the above gives a general overview, specifics can vary between affiliations. Some groups may mandateonly white undergarments, while others may permit light tans, grays or blacks. The most conservative groups, like the Swartzentruber Amish, wear more shapeless and concealing undergarments.

Modest Nightwear

In addition to daily underwear, Amish women have traditionally made their own plain nightgowns and sleeping attire. These too are designed to be loose, opaque and provide full coverage. While wealthy Victorian women in the 1800s wore elaborate silk and lace nightclothes, Amish nightwear has remained simple and functional.

Typical features of old-fashioned Amish nightwear include:

• High necks and long sleeves
• Full length, ending below the knees or ankles
• No decorative lace or embellishments
• Made from sturdy cotton or flannel
• Simple silhouette that hangs straight down

Amish women also wear plain cotton sleeping bonnets or caps to contain their hair and provide head warmth at night.

Undergarment Fabrics and Construction

Natural fibers are preferred for Amish undergarments, especially cotton for its affordability, breathability and easy care. Wool may also be used in winter for added warmth. While some lace trim was historically used, most modern Amish lingerie is totally devoid of lace.

Amish women sew most undergarments by hand, sometimes with the help of a treadle sewing machine. Clothing is typically constructed from plain patterns or self-drafted based on personal measurements. Garments are sized for comfort and made to be sturdy enough for years of wear. Mending and patching underwear to extend its use is common.

Purchasing Ready-Made Underwear

While home sewing is traditional, some Amish do purchase ready-made underwear today, especially younger generations. Mail order catalogs and local Amish shops offer suitable styles in plain white cotton. Preferred brands include Beulah, Telio and Comfort Plus for their modest cuts and fabrics.

Amish women periodically travel to larger towns to shop for factory-made underwear. They seek out old-fashioned cuts and styles that align with their customs. For intimate apparel that will remain unseen, Amish shoppers pay more attention to comfort and durability than fashionable trends.

The Purpose and Function of Amish Undergarments

Amish underwear choices are shaped by their faith, values and communal standards of appropriate attire. As with all Amish clothing, undergarments are meant to be modest, unassuming and eschew individual vanity. The focus is on wearing functional lingerie that supports the body comfortably without excessive ornamentation.

While specific items vary between affiliations, Amish lingerie has common characteristics of being sturdy, opaque, neutral colored and providing full coverage. Amish women handcraft many undergarments, or purchase ready-made pieces similar in cut and style to what they would sew at home. By learning about the simple and practical underwear habits of Amish women, we gain insight into their cultural values of humility, plainness and modesty.

FAQs

What fabrics are used for Amish undergarments?

Cotton and wool are the most common fabrics, appreciated for their breathability, durability, and availability. synthetics are avoided.

What colors are acceptable for Amish lingerie?

White, off-white, tan and grey are permitted. Some groups require only plain white undergarments.

Do Amish women hand sew their own underwear?

Yes, sewing their own underwear and nightwear is traditional among Amish women. Some use basic sewing machines but construction is typically done by hand.

Where do Amish women buy ready-made underwear?

Mail order catalogs and local Amish goods stores offer suitable plain underwear. More worldly Amish may shop in town at department stores.

How are Amish nightgowns different from regular nightgowns?

Amish nightgowns provide full coverage with high necks, long sleeves, and loose silhouettes. Decorative details are avoided.