Shirts and Chemises

Worn under the undergown (such as a tunic or cote), chemises were not widely spread in the Medieval Europe. In fact, poor people did not use them at all. They became more popular in the Gothic period, and were improved by use of finer fabrics in Renaissance.

Coptic shirt

Egyptian coptic shirt from 5-6th centuries.

Islamic shirt

Egyptian shirt from 10-12th century

Viborg

Linen shirt found in excavations by Viborg, Denmark, and dated to 11th century.

Shirt of St. Louis

13th century garment located in Notre Dame, Paris.

Ladies gotic shirt

A simple ladies undergown from 14th century.

Italian renaissance shirt

Simplicity of pattern of this 17th century undergown is balanced by rich embroidery.