White Linen Balloon Detachable Undersleeves

Victorian Early / Crinoline · 1860s · American or European

Two white linen detachable undersleeves designed to be worn beneath dress sleeves during the 1860s. Each sleeve features a gathered elastic or drawstring cuff at the wrist with decorative white embroidered or lace trim. The upper portion shows gathered fabric that would attach to the armhole of a dress or be secured with ties. The sleeves are constructed from lightweight linen with fine hand-sewn seams. These practical undergarments allowed Victorian women to protect their dress sleeves from soil while providing modesty and warmth. The gathered construction creates gentle fullness through the forearm while the fitted cuffs ensure a neat appearance at the wrist.