Throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries pockets were not attached to women’s and girls’ clothing. One or two pockets would have strings attached and would be tied on to the waist before the gown was put on. Gowns had slits in the side for access to pockets. Even a beautifully embroidered pocket such as the one depicted here, was not meant to be seen, as it sometimes contained personal or valuable items. Nonetheless, embroidering a pocket might serve as good practice for refining one’s needlework skills.