The
bed jacket is a lightweight
jacket worn to cover the chest, shoulders and arms while sitting up in bed. Its short length and
cape-like cut allows for it to be put on (or removed) while reclining. Originating in the 17th century as a garment worn for warmth, bed jackets could be home-made,
from practical materials such as knitted
wool,
flannel or
cotton, or more expensive garments designed to exchange a measure functionality for elegance.
They were popularized in 1930s playboy films, featuring glamorous settings and female starlets lounging languorously in silken bedrooms. Such bed jackets were often made from Sheer fabric or lace fabrics and displaying very feminine trimmings and details, considered an alluring item rather than used for warmth or modesty. Ostrich feather tips, swan’s down, pleated Tulle netting and Shirring lace were just a few examples of the extravagant materials that could be used in creating these confections.
File:Godey's lady's book (1840) (14582736030).jpg|1840s drawing
File:Bed jacket MET CI41.25.2 F.jpg|1870s cotton bed jacket
File:Bed jacket MET 1975.227.25 F.jpg|1880s wool bed jacket
File:Bedjasje Bedjas van roze zijde met kraag en strik versierd met stikwerk, BK-1997-83 (cropped).jpg|1930s silk bed jacket
File:Bedjacket.JPG|Modern lace bed jacket
Related garments
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The Nightingale mantle, a type of shawl from the mid-19th century, later said to be named after the nurse Florence Nightingale
[Lee, Heather (Vaughan). 2017. “Wrapped in Comfort.” Piecework 25 (1): 43–48. ]
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Dressing gown
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Peignoir, a long, thin robe
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Sleeved blanket
