A Guide To: The Many Different Types of Lingerie

With so many different types of sexy lingerie on offer, it can be difficult to know what's what. This guide will tell you all about the most popular styles of lingerie: what they are, what they're called and what they look like.

What are baby dolls, chemises and camisoles?

Baby dolls first saw a rise in popularity when they made an appearance in a film of the same name. Baby dolls are short items of lingerie, usually around hip or thigh length and are most often sleeveless. Baby dolls often come with matching knickers or a thong, and are usually made of thin, soft materials such as silk or satin with a lace trim. Baby dolls may also be made of chiffon or a similar fabric, for a sheer effect. Baby dolls may have a slit up the middle to expose the navel or have peek a boo cups which expose part of the breast.

Chemises are similar to baby dolls, in that they are both items of lingerie that usually cover most of the torso. Chemises, however, are usually more fitted to your body shape, whereas baby dolls are more free-flowing. Chemises often take on the appearance of very, very short, sexy dresses - though chemises can also be found in other lengths.

Camisoles share similarities with baby dolls and chemises. Again, they are usually sleeveless with thin straps. The term camisole can refer to outwear as well as lingerie, and many camis can be worn as either. Camisoles are usually relatively tight-fitting and unlike baby dolls and chemises, they cover the torso, but not your hips or thighs. The term camisole is sometimes interchanged with tank tops, although camisoles tend to be more intricately decorated and are usually made of finer materials such as silk, satin, lace or even fishnet.

What are body stockings?

Body stockings are all-in-one lingerie items, designed to cover most of your body, but usually in fishnet or lace to expose your skin and show off what you have to offer! Body stockings can be crotchless, sleeveless or with peek a boo cups.

What are bustiers, corsets and waist cinchers?

Bustiers and corsets look very similar, so anyone could be mistaken by thinking that they are the same lingerie item, but with a different name. Bustiers and corsets do have some differences though. Both are fitted tops that can be worn either as lingerie or outerwear. Corsets are designed to cinch in your waist giving you a slimmer frame, while bustiers concentrate - as the name suggests - on emphasising your bust by giving it a great lift and perkiness. Bustiers usually sit higher than corsets - showing a little of your tummy and hips.

Waist cinchers perform a similar job to corsets: they bring in your waist giving you a super-curvy figure. However, whereas corsets will usually also cover your bust, waist cinchers will cover your waist only, and sit underneath your bust. Again, they can be worn as an item of lingerie, or worn over a cute top or shirt to give added detail and shape.