Bodies, teddies, chemises and more: lingerie styles explained

Lingerie shopping can feel like learning a new language. Is a teddy the same as a body? What exactly is a bodystocking, and where does a chemise end and a babydoll begin? The good news is that the names are simpler than they sound. Here's a friendly translation, with notes on how each style feels to wear and who it tends to suit.

Bodies and bodysuits

A body, or bodysuit, is a fitted one-piece that covers the torso, a bit like a swimsuit. Many have a thong back or a fastening at the base. Because they're structured and smooth, bodies can be worn in the bedroom or under a jacket, with jeans or a skirt for a night out.

• The Lace by LJ High Neck Lace Bodysuit Black (£18.99) pairs floral lace with a high neck and daring cut-outs.
• For something sleeker, the Lace by LJ Opaque Bodysuit Black (£14.99) has a racer style and a thong back.
• The Lace by LJ Plus Size Long Sleeved Cut Out Back Bodysuit (£16.99) adds sheer mesh detailing and long sleeves.

Good for: anyone who wants one piece that can double as something to wear out.

Teddies

A teddy is also a one-piece, but it's usually lighter, lacier and more obviously made for the bedroom. Think deep necklines, sheer panels and delicate straps. Where a body is fitted and practical, a teddy is about the moment.

The Lace by LJ Deep V Teddy with Bow Black (£14.99) is a good example, with a low V neck framed by lace net and a bow at the centre. The Lace by LJ Strappy Halter Teddy Black (£14.99) goes for a strappier look. You'll find more in our bodies and teddies collection.

Good for: a first lingerie piece that feels special without being complicated.

Chemises and babydolls

A chemise is a short, slip-style dress that usually falls somewhere on the upper thigh. A babydoll is similar but tends to flare out from under the bust. Both skim the body rather than hug it, which many people find comfortable and easy to wear.

The Leg Avenue Rose Lace Flair Chemise (£21.99) comes with a matching G-string.

Good for: relaxed evenings, and anyone who prefers a looser fit around the tummy and hips.

Bodystockings

A bodystocking is a stretchy one-piece, usually in fishnet, lace or sheer mesh, that covers the body from the shoulders down to the thighs or feet. Many are crotchless or have open details, and some are designed to look like stockings and suspenders.

• The Lace by LJ Lace Suspender Bodystocking Black (£14.99) is made from lace, with a halter neck that ties behind the neck and a suspender-style design.
• The Lace by LJ Fishnet Crotchless Bodystocking Black (£12.99) is a simple, classic fishnet style.

Because they're so stretchy, bodystockings are often one size, and some come in a plus-size version. Browse our bodystockings to compare styles.

Good for: dramatic, head-to-toe impact at a low price.

Sets

A set is two or more matching pieces, most often a bra or top with briefs. Sets are the most flexible choice: wear them together, mix them with other pieces, add stockings, or wear one part on its own. The Lace by LJ Fence Net Crop Top and Bottoms (£14.99) is a bold, minimal-coverage option. There are more in our lingerie sets.

Good for: anyone who likes separates and outfits they can change around.

How to choose

A few questions help narrow things down:

1. How much coverage feels good? Opaque bodies and chemises cover more. Fishnet bodystockings and cut-out pieces reveal more.
2. Fitted or floaty? Bodies and bodystockings hug your shape. Chemises and teddies drape.
3. Where will you wear it? A body can go out for dinner. A crotchless bodystocking probably stays home.
4. Who is it for? Lingerie is for you first. Choose what makes you feel good, whether or not anyone else sees it.

Getting the fit right

Many pieces are stretchy and sold as one size, but "one size" still covers a set range. The Lace by LJ Opaque Bodysuit Black, for example, is listed as fitting sizes 6 to 12, so always check the notes on the product page. Our lingerie sizing guide walks you through measuring yourself.

It's worth getting this right before you open anything. You have 14 days to cancel, but items need to be unused and still sealed to come back.

Whichever style catches your eye, it will arrive in a plain, unbranded parcel with nothing on the outside to show what's inside or where it's from. If you'd like one easy piece to start with, a teddy or a body is a lovely place to begin.