The chemise was almost always made of fine white linen, with a square cut and side gores. The elbow-length sleeves were attached as in a T-shirt and had lace or lawn tacked to the cuffs. Later, lace was also tacked around the neckline.
The chemise didn't change its shape, so depending on the fashion for the robe, more or less of the chemise sleeve was seen. It was put on under the corset.