Types of Lingerie: 8 Lingerie Styles Explained, From Teddies to Garter Sets (2026)

Teddy, babydoll, chemise, bustier. If the names blur together, you're not alone, and it makes shopping for lingerie harder than it should be. Here are the eight types of lingerie you'll actually see on our site, what each one does well, and the fall/winter 2026 pieces we'd pick in every style. Everything below is Exclusively at RaveFix.

1. The Teddy: Lingerie as a One-Piece

A teddy is a one-piece bodysuit with the bra built in. It's the most "outfit-like" of all the lingerie styles, which is why sexy teddies are the pieces people wear under blazers and to holiday parties, not only at home.

Our current favorite is the Bella Eyelash Lace Balconette Teddy. Underwire cups give real lift, and the lace ruffle legs soften it. Want red for December? The Satin Heart Red Embroidered Teddy has demi cups and heart embroidery. For something lighter, the Versailles Boudoir Pink Chantilly Lace Teddy is pretty enough for a bridal shower gift.

2. The Babydoll: Flowy and Forgiving

A babydoll is a short, loose nightie that fits at the bust and floats from there. It skims your middle instead of hugging it, so it's the easiest lingerie for women who don't love a snug fit.

The Metallic Rose Two-Tone Lace Plunge Babydoll pairs black and red lace with a chiffon skirt. It photographs beautifully. If you want something more playful, the Satin Heart Red Embroidered Babydoll has a fluffy marabou hem and comes with a matching thong.

3. The Chemise: The Slip Dress Version

A chemise is longer and straighter than a babydoll, closer to a mini slip dress. Pick this one if you like a sleek line.

Our pick is the Metallic Rose Two-Tone Lace Garter Chemise. It has underwire support and built-in garter straps, so you can add stockings without buying a separate belt.

4. The Bustier: Built-In Structure

A bustier is a boned top that shapes your waist and lifts the bust, a bit like a softer corset. It's also the piece most likely to leave the bedroom. Throw on high-waisted pants and a long coat and you're done.

The Midnight Shimmer Black Lurex Boned Bustier & Thong Set has a subtle sparkle and little rhinestone bows. It's made for New Year's Eve. Want something softer? The Lace Trim Satin Bustier with Ruffled Hem is smooth satin with a lace edge and a flirty ruffle, and it's very romantic.

5. The 3-Piece Garter Set

Bra, garter belt and thong, sold together. If you love stockings, this is the most versatile buy, since you can wear the pieces together or split them up.

• The Bella 3-Piece Eyelash Lace Set matches the Bella teddy above, and the green with black lace feels very Christmas without being too literal.
• The Vie En Rose 3-Piece Embroidered Rose Set has ombre roses on black.
• For shine, the Midnight Shimmer 3-Piece Set is lurex all over.

6. The Bra & Thong Set

The classic. It's the easiest lingerie to size and wear, and it fits under almost any outfit. Underwire sets give the most support. The Satin Heart Red Embroidered Demi Bra & Thong Set matches the teddy and babydoll from the same line, and the Versailles Boudoir Chantilly Lace Bra & Thong Set is the soft pink option.

7. The Bralette Set

No underwire, no padding, just a soft lace or tulle triangle. It's comfier than a structured bra and great for smaller busts. Try the Ravishing Rouge Tie-Front Bralette & Thong Set. The satin bow at the front makes it feel like a gift.

8. Lounge Sets and Robes

Lingerie doesn't have to be lace. Cozy lounge sets count too, especially when it's cold. The Naughty & Nice Plaid Modal Bralette & Boy Short Set is soft modal in holiday plaid, and the Cupid Heart Satin Bralette & Ruffle Shorts Pajama Set is sweet and silky. Add the Voguish Glam Luxury Robe on top and you're set for Christmas morning.

How to Pick the Right Type of Lingerie

• Want support? Go for underwire: a teddy, bustier or bra set.
• Want comfort? Babydolls, bralettes and lounge sets are the easy ones.
• Buying a gift? Babydolls and lounge sets are the safest bets for size. Teddies and bustiers fit closer to the body, so check the size chart on the product page.
• Wearing it out? Teddies and bustiers have enough structure to work under a blazer or a sheer top.
• Love stockings? Pick a 3-piece set or a garter chemise.

Still deciding between two styles? Our teddy vs babydoll guide compares them side by side. Want more one-piece looks? See our sexy teddy lingerie and bodysuits. Shopping for someone else? Our lingerie gift guide has easy sizing tips.

Shop Every Type of Lingerie

Browse all lingerie, see the latest drops in new arrivals, or jump to teddies & bodysuits. For cold nights, check out loungewear and robes & gowns. Orders placed by 3 PM PT on weekdays ship the same day. Exclusively at RaveFix.