Teddy (garment)

The modern-day teddy has its origins as an adult’s undergarment in the 19th century apparently named after German-American clothing manufacturer Theodore Bear (c. 1864-1902).

[1] Originally known as combinations, an 1862 patent introduced men’s one-piece vest and drawers made up of knitted woollen cloth, which were popularly worn from the 1880s.

[2] As a women’s undergarment, combinations comprised chemise and drawers, and could be fashioned from various different fabrics including silk, linen, cotton, or wool.

[3] First introduced in 1877, women’s combinations were initially developed to reduce bulk under new styles and silhouettes of outer clothing,[3] with darts and seams providing a closer fitting undergarment.

[4] While many styles were sleeveless and had a low-neckline, options also featured long sleeves and/or high necklines, and into the 1890s, were also decorated with ribbons and lace.

[3] The camiknicker style retained popularity during World War II when women who served in military-related duties wore trousers instead of skirts.

Made from silk or similar weighted synthetic fabric, a teddy had developed into a lightweight bodice with attached underwear, often with button or press-stud fastenings to the gusset.