Caraco jackets usually were thigh-length, fitted jackets worn over a petticoat (a simple two- paneled skirt gathered at the waist). If worn with the front open, then a stomacher was added or it was fastened with ruching strips (a strip of pleated lace, net, muslin, or other material for trimming or finishing a dress, as at the collar or sleeves), or fastened with stays (strings or lacing strips). The women living with the pirates and who were not the most demure of creatures often would not bother to lace the strings.
Susan F. Craft is the author of The Xanthakos Family Trilogy that spans from 1780 to 1836 and from the Blue Ridge Mountains, to Charleston, SC, to the NC Outer Banks and back. The first book in the series is The Chamomile, and the second is Laurel. The third, Cassia, will be released this September.
It all looks so uncomfortable. Laced up or not.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Mary, but there's something about the fashion that appeals to me. I've been watching the PBS series "Poldark" and love the fashions of that post-Rev War time. Although I agree, I imagine it felt as if you were being trussed up like a Thanksgiving turkey!
DeleteSusan, I like learning about the fashions of the day, so found your article very interesting. I've read many of Marylu Tyndall's pirate books and expect I'll enjoy reading yours!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Deb. Fashions interested me too. I once did a post on the history of buttons - but then I'm a history nerd. If you get a chance to read my books, please, let me know what you think.
DeleteI meant to add that I like Marylu Tyndall's books too. She endorsed my novel, Cassia, that will be released September 14.
Delete