Nightie

The chemise and the babydoll are close cousins in the world of sleepwear lingerie, but they differ in cut and length. A chemise (also known as a sexy nightdress) is a lightweight nightwear piece that ranges from mid-thigh to mid-calf in length.

It features thin or wide straps, a cut that’s often fitted at the bust then flares out towards the hem, and luxurious fabrics such as lace, satin, or silk. The overall look is sophisticated and glamorous, evoking old Hollywood elegance. A babydoll is a specific type of short chemise, typically sitting above the knee, with a very flared “doll-like” cut (hence the name).

The empire seam sits just below the bust, letting the fabric float freely over the tummy and hips. It’s the most flattering style for all body shapes, as it highlights the décolletage while skimming over any areas you’d rather not draw attention to.

In short: all babydolls are chemises, but not all chemises are babydolls. At Luxury Alley, you’ll find both styles in our collection, with a dedicated filter to help you narrow down your search.

Getting the right fit is key to looking and feeling great in your chemise.

Here’s how:

For chemises and babydolls in standard sizing (S, M, L, XL):

• Measure your bust (at the fullest point) with a tape measure held level
• Measure your hips (the widest part of your bottom)

Compare these measurements to the size chart on each product page – our charts include both UK and EU conversions

For chemises with a built-in bra cup (e.g. 32B, 34C, 36D):

• Measure your underbust (just below the breasts): UK 30, 32, 34, 36, 38... (EU 65, 70, 75, 80, 85...)
• Work out your cup size from the difference between your bust and underbust measurements: UK: 1" = A, 2" = B, 3" = C, 4" = D, 5" = DD, 6" = E — EU: 12-14 cm = A, 14-16 cm = B, 16-18 cm = C, 18-20 cm = D, 20-22 cm = E

Practical tips: If you’re between two sizes, go for the larger one for extra comfort, especially with less stretchy fabrics like satin

Stretch lace is more forgiving on sizing as it moulds to your body. For plus-size chemises (XL to 7XL), always check the brand’s own size guide as equivalences vary.

Our full size guide with brand-by-brand conversion charts is available on each product page. If in doubt, our customer service team is happy to advise you personally.

It depends on the style.

Here’s how to tell:

Chemises WITH matching knickers included (the majority of our range):

Most of our babydolls and short chemises come with a matching thong or knickers in the same fabric and colour.

This is always stated in the product title (e.g. “chemise + matching thong”) and in the detailed description.

The type of bottoms included varies: thong, tanga, or classic knickers depending on the style.

Chemises WITHOUT knickers included:

• Negligees and robes are generally sold on their own (designed to be worn over a lingerie set)
• Some premium long chemises are also sold as a single piece

Always check for the note “single piece” or “sold without bottoms” on the product page.

Tip: If your chemise doesn’t include knickers, you can pair it with a thong or shorties from our collection to create your own personalised combination.

If you’re exploring sexy sleepwear for the first time, here are our recommendations:

Best fabric to start with: stretch lace

• Subtly sheer without being too revealing – floral patterns add coverage while keeping things alluring
• Soft and comfortable against the skin, feminine and universally loved
• Adapts easily to your shape thanks to its stretch

Best cut to start with: empire babydoll

• Seam just below the bust highlights your décolletage
• Flared fabric floats freely over the tummy and hips
• No overly fitted areas that might feel uncomfortable
• Easy to slip on, no complicated straps or fastenings

Best colours to start with:

Black: timeless, flattering, suits every skin tone. Blush pink: romantic, soft, perfect for a cosy evening in. White/ivory: elegant, classic, ideal for a special occasion.

What to save for later:

• Vinyl (a fabric that takes a bit of confidence to pull off)
• Fully sheer styles without any patterning (too exposed if you’re not yet comfortable)
• Very short micro-babydolls (start with a mid-thigh length)

Once you feel at home in a classic style, you’ll be ready to explore bolder fabrics like satin, fishnet, or wetlook.

Yes – many chemises are perfectly suited for sleeping in, as long as you pick the right fabric and cut.

Here’s how to choose a comfortable one for bedtime:

Best fabrics for sleeping:

Lightweight stretch lace: breathable, soft, and moves with you during the night without bunching up

Flowing satin: glides against the skin with no friction – a luxurious feel that lasts all night

Soft microfibre: ultra-lightweight, ideal in summer as it doesn’t trap heat

Modal or viscose: natural, breathable fabrics that help regulate temperature

Best cuts for sleeping:

A short babydoll that won’t tangle around your legs. Wide, adjustable straps (at least 1.5 cm) that won’t dig into your shoulders when you’re lying down.

Wire-free styles so you can sleep on your side without discomfort.

What to avoid for sleeping:

• Vinyl or wetlook (non-breathable fabrics that cause overheating)
• Stiff fishnet (can scratch or leave marks on the skin overnight)
• Styles with metal underwires (uncomfortable when lying down)
• Very thin spaghetti straps that dig into your shoulders

Tip: If you want a chemise that’s comfortable enough to sleep in yet gorgeous enough to seduce, go for a stretch lace babydoll with wide straps – the best of both worlds.

Proper care will significantly extend the life of your chemise.

Here are the essential rules by fabric type:

Lace, satin, and silk:

• Hand wash in lukewarm water (30°C max) with a gentle lingerie detergent
• Machine wash only in a mesh laundry bag on a delicates cycle at 30°C

Never use bleach or fabric softener – they damage elasticity and sheen

Vinyl and wetlook:

• Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap after each wear
• Never put in the washing machine or leave to soak. Pat dry with a clean cloth straight away

Fishnet and sheer mesh:

• Hand wash only (extremely delicate fabric)
• Handle with care – fine fishnet snags and ladders very easily

Drying (all fabrics):

• Always lay flat on a clean towel
• Never tumble dry or place on a radiator (causes warping and shrinkage)
• Never wring out – gently press between two towels instead

Storing: Fold carefully in a dedicated lingerie drawer.

Keep away from clothes with zips or hooks that could snag the lace. For vinyl, store in a breathable fabric bag away from light to prevent yellowing.

How often: Wash your chemise after every wear to keep it fresh and hygienic.

A chemise is one of the most popular lingerie gifts because it’s so much easier to get right: unlike a set with a bra that requires knowing the exact cup size, a chemise comes in standard sizes (S, M, L, XL).

Here are our tips:

Why a chemise makes a brilliant gift:

• Easier to size than a bra – you just need to know her usual dress size (UK 8/10 = S, UK 12/14 = M, UK 16/18 = L, etc.)
• Less intimidating than an open lingerie set if you’re buying lingerie as a gift for the first time
• Practical as well as seductive – she can wear it as gorgeous nightwear every day

How to find out her size discreetly:

• Check the label in her current pyjamas or nightwear. Ask a close friend of hers.
• Note her usual dress size (it’s a direct match)

If in doubt: our Luxury Alley gift card lets her choose for herself

Choose based on her personality:

Romantic: babydoll in blush pink or ivory lace with delicate bows

Bold: short chemise in black satin or sheer fishnet

Elegant: long negligee in satin with fine embroidery, in burgundy or emerald tones

Playful: printed styles or bright colours (turquoise, fuchsia). If you’re unsure, black lace is always the most universally flattering choice: elegant, sexy, and timeless.

For the presentation, add a personal handwritten note and pair the gift with a thoughtful touch (flowers, dinner) so it feels like a tribute to her beauty.

Yes, absolutely. At Luxury Alley, we believe every woman deserves to feel beautiful and alluring, whatever her shape or size.

Our plus-size chemise range:

• Available sizes: XL to 7XL (UK 18 to 30+)
• Built-in cups: some styles up to a G cup (UK and EU sizing available)
• Over 40 plus-size styles across all collections: romantic, daring, satin glamour, delicate lace

What makes our plus-size chemises different:

Our plus-size styles are not simply scaled-up versions.

They feature:

• An adapted empire cut that highlights the décolletage while letting fabric float over the tummy and hips
• Wide straps (at least 2 cm), adjustable and designed to distribute bust weight without digging into the shoulders
• Reinforced stretch lace that hugs curves without compressing
• Adjusted length so the chemise falls beautifully on a fuller figure

Discover our plus-size chemises in the dedicated collection!

Tip: For fuller busts (DD+ cups), choose chemises with a built-in underwired bra rather than wire-free triangle babydolls for better support.