When Did Women Start Wearing Trousers? HistoryExtra Underwear: what was worn under Regency gowns? Liberta Books During the 1850s, women's clothing played a crucial role in keeping them warm, especially during winter months. 1. Layering: Women wore multiple layers of clothing, including a chemise, corset, petticoats, and a Staying Warm: Women's Winter Clothing at Colonial Michilimackinac Mackinac State Historic Parks During the 1850s, women's clothing played a crucial role in keeping them warm, especially during winter months. 1. Layering: Women wore multiple layers of clothing, including a chemise, corset, petticoats, and a 1840s layering Fashion Through Herstory