Styles of Lingerie
Chemise | Camisole | Babydoll | Robes | Sets
Chemise
Definition: A chemise is a short, slip-like dress that falls loosely from the shoulders. Typically mid-thigh to knee length.
Style Notes
- Usually cut on the bias for a gentle drape.
- Can feature lace panels, satin body, or sheer inserts.
- Worn as both nightwear and intimatewear.
Best Fabrics
- Satin: Luxurious and drapey, creates a romantic look.
- Silk: Naturally breathable, elegant, and classic.
- Cotton blends: Softer, more casual comfort.
- Chiffon or mesh overlays: Add delicacy without being too revealing.
Colors
- Traditional: White, ivory, blush (bridal associations).
- Romantic: Deep reds, burgundy, rose pink.
- Elegant: Navy, emerald, black for a timeless touch.
Cami
Definition: In lingerie, a cami is often a more delicate, lace-heavy version of a camisole, meant for intimate or sleepwear use rather than layering.
Style Notes
- Often paired with tap shorts or matching bottoms.
- Lace or mesh panels add visual detail.
- Shorter than a chemise, cropped at the waist.
Best Fabrics
- Lace overlays with satin underlay.
- Mesh panels for breathability.
- Soft jersey for comfort-first designs.
Colors
- Romantic bridal: White with gold or silver lace.
- Soft feminine: Powder blue, lilac, blush.
- Chic: Black lace with contrasting underlay (like nude or pale pink).
Babydoll
Definition: A short, often sheer, lingerie dress that flares out at the waist. Usually paired with matching panties.
Style Notes
- Flirty and feminine, emphasizes bust with empire waist.
- Flowing skirt gives coverage while remaining playful.
- Often sheer or semi-sheer.
Best Fabrics
- Chiffon for flow.
- Mesh for a playful sheer look.
- Lace cups with satin ribbon detail.
Colors
- Romantic: Baby pink, soft peach, lavender.
- Dramatic: Black, deep plum, ruby.
- Bridal: White with lace detailing.
Robes
Definition: Wraparound outer layer, can be long or short.
Style Notes
- Satin or silk robes for bridal mornings.
- Sheer chiffon robes for layered boudoir look.
- Can be personalized with embroidery.
Best Fabrics
- Satin: Smooth and photo-perfect.
- Velvet: Luxe and warm.
- Chiffon: Light and ethereal.
Colors
- Bridal: White, ivory, champagne.
- Classic: Black, navy.
- Playful: Rose, sage, powder blue.
Teddy (Bodysuit)
Definition: A one-piece garment combining camisole top and panties.
Style Notes
- Can be structured (like a bodysuit with boning) or soft and flowy.
- High-cut legs elongate the body.
- Can double as outerwear under blazers.
Best Fabrics
- Lace: Classic teddy look.
- Satin with lace trim.
- Mesh for a sleek silhouette.
Colors
- Classic: Black, ivory.
- Bold: Crimson, teal, emerald.
- Trendy: Dusty pink, sage green.
Bustier & Corset
Definition: Structured lingerie that shapes and supports the torso.
Style Notes
- Bustier: Shorter, emphasizes bust, often with push-up effect.
- Corset: Longer, cinches waist, sometimes laces up back.
- Can be lingerie or outerwear.
Best Fabrics
- Satin with boning for structured glamour.
- Brocade or jacquard for vintage appeal.
- Mesh for a modern, breathable version.
Colors
- Glamorous: Black, gold, deep wine.
- Romantic: Ivory with lace.
- Playful: Jewel tones like sapphire or amethyst.
Bralette
Definition: A soft, wire-free bra, often lacy or delicate.
Style Notes
- Comfort-first lingerie.
- Can be worn visibly under sheer tops.
- Often triangle-cup or bandeau style.
Best Fabrics
- Lace: Feminine and delicate.
- Cotton blends: Everyday comfort.
- Modal or bamboo: Soft, eco-friendly option.
Colors
- Neutral basics: Black, nude, white.
- Fashion colors: Mustard, sage, dusty pink, indigo.
Panties (Briefs, Thongs, Hipsters, Boyshorts)
Style Notes
- Briefs: Full coverage, comfort.
- Thong: Minimal coverage, seamless under clothes.
- Hipsters: Low rise, moderate coverage.
- Boyshorts: Inspired by men’s boxers, covers hips.
Best Fabrics
- Cotton: Everyday basics.
- Satin: Special occasion.
- Mesh/Lace: Flirty and breathable.
Colors
- Usually matches bras or lingerie sets.
Other Specialty Pieces
Garter belts & stockings: Traditionally bridal or boudoir.
Slip: Simple underdress, can double as nightwear.
Loungewear sets: Soft cotton or modal, mixing lingerie and comfort.
Shapewear lingerie: Designed for smoothing under clothing.
From the satin chemise, satin camisole, babydoll lingerie, bridal robes, or elegant nightwear, delicate lingerie is fun to explore!
Big Picture Trends:
- Colors: Bridal whites and ivories remain timeless, but muted tones (sage, dusty rose, mauve, lavender, champagne, navy) dominate modern collections.
- Fabrics: Satin, silk, lace, and mesh are the big four. Cotton, modal, and bamboo are entering as comfort-driven options.
- Styles: Chemises and camis are great for conservative brides, while teddies and bustiers serve the confident, playful niche.