These are actually both really good questions, and they are just what I need to try and make this a workable venture.

You are correct - much of the paintings show specific clothing where the gowns are simply let down or pulled down. Others show slits that sew up or are hidden in the clothing. Still others don't give a lot of detail either one way or another, and it's left for us to interpret what's going on with the pieces.

I've been looking at nightgowns that have slits in the front for easy nursing access. I found when I was camping I wanted something to wear while I was sleeping, but also wanted to stay away from elastic if possible (I wanted to give myself a personal challenge, nothing against elastic at all). I found these to be really comfortable to wear, gave me extra warmth while feeding at night, and allowed me to head over to the biff when I needed to. The chemises that had elastic had (for me) too much skin exposed for sleepwear (I have found that I get cold easily now that I'm getting older *LOL*).

I also want to try and make some garb that is not specifically a cotehardie (viking, german ren, possibly?), and see what I can do to make pieces that are going to last past breast-feeding - and/or make patterns to help others who would like to either make their own pieces or alter ones they already have.

There's also the possibility that consignment can be brought in, for gently used garb that is nursing-friendly to be re-sold to new mothers...

As I said, I really appreciate both of you bringing up these questions. It's a great way for me to honestly, seriously think on what to do, how to make it work, and whether it's viable or not.

~M