I have been researching the history of the boudoir cap, and I am fascinated by these adorable little accessories that were essential to the proper ladies' nighttime and early morning wardrobe. I have found countless examples of these fancy little caps, and four of my favorites are pictured below....the ribbon work, the delicate laces, the silks and satin.....I am amazed just thinking of the time that was devoted to making one of these precious adornments!
For lots more examples visit my Pinterest board "Boudoir Caps". https://www.pinterest.com/simplepleasuressleepwear
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BoudoirCap A boudoir cap is a form of lingerie nightcap that was popular in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Analysis of a Twentieth Century Boudoir Cap http://www.ryerson.ca/content/dam/fashionresearch The boudoir cap was evolving and by the twentieth century, though still deeply tied to notions of femininity, the allegiance to strict rules of decency seemed to loosen. Though no caps were still worn they no longer completely concealed the hair (Webster 170).
Vintage Fashion Guild : Lingerie Guide : Boudoir Cap
https://vintagefashionguild.org/lingerie-guide/cap-boudoir/ Boudoir caps were worn in the 19th and early 20th Centuries to protect the coiffure while undergoing the arduous process of dressing or to cover undressed hair. As long hair was bobbed short in the late Teens and 1920s, this was unnecessary due to the shorter hair lengths.
http://www.sewhistorically.com/history-of-the-nightcap-victorian-and-edwardian-hair-care/