To make lingerie shopping as stress-free as possible we’ve been tackling some of the confusing terms head-on. Here we look at the difference between a teddy and a babydoll. These two often get blended into one when, in fact, there are many differences.
The main difference between a teddy and a babydoll is that one is a floaty nightie with cup support, the other is a one piece lingerie item similar to a camisole with attached knickers.
It’s important to know and understand these differences so you know exactly what you are getting and also what you can expect to achieve from your product. Half the battle is knowing what you will be most comfortable wearing and which lingerie items show off which body parts.
What Is A Teddy?
A teddy is not dissimilar to a one-piece swimming costume although it is not as tight-fitting.
It covers your torso in one piece of fabric and you put it on in the same way as you would swimwear. For the most part, they do not offer much cup support.
Teddies have been around since the 1910s and were often worn under short dresses. Back then they were often called Camiknickers, the “Teddy” term didn’t emerge until the 1980s.
Teddies aren’t as tight-fitted as you might assume and they are remarkably comfortable to wear. They are designed with a revealing neckline so that you can show off your cleavage. The neckline is often trimmed in lace with ribbon or bows for added detail. They are often designed with an open crotch for those intimate moments. Teddies can come in a range of cuts including halterneck and open cup. Popular fabric includes silk, satin, sheer, lace, and wet look. The knickers can be high leg, or a french knicker cut.
Key Features Of A Teddy:–
- One-piece garment covering the torso.
- Looser feel than a swimming costume.
- Often features a halter neck design.
- Usually without inbuilt cup support.
- Revealing, flattering, and sexy.
- Open crotch and open cup designs available.
What Is A Babydoll?
Babydolls are a form of loose-fitting nightie which usually sits just below the bum, and can be worn with sexy knickers underneath.
The popularity of Babydolls gained momentum in the 1950s and quickly became the desired piece of bedroom attire. They shouldn’t be thrown into the same category as Teddies because the two are quite different.
Babydolls are often chosen for the flattering qualities of the skirt and the neckline. The cleavage is revealed seductively while the flowing skirt section skims over your hips playfully. Babydolls are a nightdress whereas Teddies are a one-piece bodysuit. Babydolls typically come in lace, floral lace, mesh, see through, sheer, and wet-look.
Key Features Of A Babydoll:
- Type of nightie.
- Flowing and lightweight feel.
- Can have straps or halterneck design.
- Usually sits just shy of the rear, or mid-thigh.
- Can be worn with knickers.
So What’s The Difference Between a Teddy and a Babydoll?
Which one to choose then, Teddy or Babydoll? That really is the question and it ultimately comes down to personal choice. Teddies do not leave a great deal to the imagination and reveal certain body areas some aren’t comfortable with. If you are worried about your wobbly bottom and thighs you might like the idea of a babydoll. If you want a one-piece with an open crotch then a Teddy will be your friend. Both are revealing in their own ways so it’s choosing what body parts you are happy to display.
With a Teddy, you don’t need any underwear but you can add a robe or a pair of stockings as a bit of extra coverage. Babydolls can be worn alone or with some sexy knickers underneath. Both are actually pretty loose-fitting but Babydolls offer more flexibility seeing as it’s basically a nightdress. Both items can be teamed up with stockings and heels for a sultry look.
In Summary – Teddies V Babydolls Key Differences
- Teddies fit like a one-piece costume.
- Babydolls are a loose-fitting nightdress.
- Teddies often feature an open crotch.
- Babydolls can be worn with knickers.
- Teddies don’t offer much cup support.
- Babydolls reveal less of the body.