What is a wrapper for?

[UnionBelle]

I'm thinking about making a wrapper as my first piece of period garb because I don't need to wait until I can get the proper undergarments to fit it, and i was wondering what exactly the purpose of a wrapper was and whether anybody knows where I can get a wrapper pattern. Thanks

[Spinster]

A wrapper is a housecoat. It can be very fancy and dressy, or very homey and plain.

(Now, as an aside, in acquiring period clothing, you need your underpinnings FIRST, especially your corset. You can't fit a dress without them)

Get a wrapper pattern from Originals By Kay.

Now, there are a number of good wrapper patterns out there. Past Patterns has an excellent one. The reason I'm recommending Kay's is that, when belted, it most closely resembles a period dress, of all the wrappers out there.

Still though, this IS a housecoat. And going about town in one was a bad idea, Then and Now.

You'll be wearing this with skirt support, petticoats and a corset in order to get the proper period look.

[netnet81]

You probably want to work on your undergarments first. You won't use a wrapper much at Texas events and since you will still need the undergarments for under your wrapper I think that would be your best use of time and money at first.