An apron isn't decoration. It's workwear that saves the dress.
Why
The dress is hand-sewn, hand-washed, dries half a day. Staining is costly, frequent washing means wear. The apron takes the hit: cooking, cleaning, gardening, barnyard.
Construction
Full (pinafore): covers chest and skirt. Buttons or pins in back. Half apron: below waist only. Fabric: cotton, dark colors (stains less visible).
Pockets
Deep, roomy. Handkerchief, cellar keys, scissors, handful of seeds — all in the apron. The Amish version of a handbag.
How Many
Minimum 3: one on, one in wash, one spare. A good housewife — 5-7. One for cooking (dirtiest), one for church (clean), rest for everyday.