Babydoll lingerie and chemises

Babydoll or chemise

A babydoll has a structured or underwire bust and a skirt that flares from under it, often open at the front. A chemise is a slip cut close to the body, usually without wires. The Sheer Babydoll ($52) has an underwire lace bust and an open front skirt, while the Satin Slip Chemise ($58) is bias cut so it skims the body and has a side slit.

Choose a babydoll if you want lift and movement, and a chemise if you want something sleek you could also sleep in.

Why babydolls work on video

A floating skirt moves when you do, so babydolls shine in slow motion clips and turning shots. Mesh and chiffon catch the air and show light through them, while satin swings heavier and glows in warm lamps. For still photos, sit on the edge of a bed and let the skirt fall open, or stand side on to a mirror so the outline of the bust reads clearly.

The Lace Babydoll splits at the center, which frames the waist when you walk toward the camera.

Fit and styling

Size a babydoll by your bust, because the skirt is loose by design. Check the bust column in our size guide and size up if you are between two. Add lace top thigh highs for a longer leg line, or layer a satin robe over a chemise for a hotel morning. For a more playful mood, the ruffle mesh style pairs well with a pink set from our lingerie sets.

Babydolls are also the easiest lingerie to give, because the loose skirt forgives a wrong guess on hips. Keep the matching thong for the full look, or swap it for a high waist brief if you want more coverage.