Terminology Guide - Sleepwear

Camisoles

	Camisole Either a loose or fitted top with either spaghetti or wider shoulder strap. Very popular in the '80s and sold with matching French Knickers. The choice fabric is pure silk and this item may be worn to bed or under clothing as outerwear. Either plain or embellished with lace or embroidery.
	Camisole & French Knicker = Camisole & Culotte Generally a loose fitted top with either spaghetti or wider shoulder strap that is teamed up with the matching loose fitted boxer short. Very popular in the '80s either as sleepwear or worn under clothing as lingerie. The fabric of choice being pure silk.

Chemises

Chemise = Short Nightgown = Slip = Petticoat
Underwire balconette style which is ideal for very low-cut necklines. The cup does not cover the bust as the name suggests but acts as a prop to give support while allowing the bust to sit naturally. The straps are placed to the side of the cup that is ideal for wider necklines also.

Babydoll Chemise = Babydoll
Sleepwear reminiscent of a short dress style that is constructed along the bust with fabric flowing from below the cups to above the knee. It is generally close fitted around the bust with the rest of the garment loose-fitting. Generally not underwire with comfort being the main requirement. The most luxurious Babydolls are made from pure silk fabrics such as chiffon, georgette and satin.

Nightgowns

Long Nightgowns = Gown
Sleepwear reminiscent of a dress that is long in length with a variety of shoulder straps and sleeves. Generally not underwire with comfort being the main requirement. The most luxurious Nightgowns are made from pure silk fabrics such as chiffon, georgette and satin.

Nightshirts

Nightshirt
A knee length shirt that is worn to bed. These can be tailored with centre front buttons or remain simple in style without any detail. Fabrics vary from woven to knitted. The most luxurious Nightshirts are made from pure silk.

Pyjamas

Pyjama = PJ = Pajama
A two-piece sleepwear ensemble consisting on a button-up shirt top and unstructured drawstring or elasticised waisted trouser. Traditionally masculine styled with long sleeve and long trouser leg but these days short sleeve and short trousers are available for a younger clientele. The most luxurious Pyjamas are made from pure silk fabrics. Usually matched up with a Robe.

Robes

Robe = Dressing Gown
A cover-up piece of clothing that traditionally is matched with any sleepwear garments but is also worn over lingerie. Either long or short in length with traditionally long sleeves even though there are short sleeve variations also available. The most luxurious robes are made from pure silk fabrics.

Teddies

Teddy
A loose-fitting bodysuit style that is worn either to bed or under clothing as outerwear. The primary fabric choice, silk satin. It is similar to a Camisole and French Knicker all-in-one combination that usually has an elasticised waist and was very popular in the '80s. Often mistakenly called a 'bodysuit' which is tight fitting.