Linen / Cotton Undergarments or Gowns?

[Anita Lynn Cotter]

I need help identifying three vintage lady's garments purchased at auction. They are white cotton or linen, with button closure at the crotch. Two of them have beautiful crochet bodices with woven ribbon embellishment. Are they undergarments, or are they nightgowns? I would appreciate assistance in identifying their use and era! (photos attached)

 

[Jonathan]

VERY pretty ones - they are 1920s cami-knickers, or chemises (although the first one might be late 1910s). They are underwear.

 

[Anita Lynn Cotter]

VERY pretty ones - they are 1920s cami-knickers, or chemises (although the first one might be late 1910s). They are underwear.

Thank you, Jonathan! From the age of other things at the auction, I thought they might be 1930s, but 1920's is even better! I also thought they might be nightgowns, so thanks for clarifying that they are underwear, though certainly a little bulky compared to the sleek things we have now. What is something like this worth? I paid $4 each, and the auctioneer said "nice buy!"

 

[Jonathan]

It's not the VFG's policy to give evaluations, but if you search Etsy for 1920s slips or chemises you will get an idea. To be perfectly honest they are a bit harder to sell now than they used to be because of the 'eBay' factor (online over-availabilty).