I agree that it's a bit of a stretch. With the panties, as has been said, reinforcements etc. They may not have been everyday wear. The "bra" is clearly a longer garment - there's a bit on the side that shows how long it would be, but they're acting like the rip under the bust is the original lower edge - so that could be an outer garment, a warmth garment, etc. The fact that there are lacing holes on the side means that this could be a pregnancy-specific thing.

Why did I read the comments? "Chemises and sack gowns", what do they have to do with this? FTLOG.