A babydoll is a short, sleeveless, loose fitting nightgown or negligee intended as nightwear for women. It usually consists of formed cups with an attached loose fitting skirt falling in length between the hips and the belly button. The garment is often trimmed with lace, ruffles, appliques, Marabou fur, bows and ribbons, optionally with spaghetti straps. Sometimes it is made of sheer or translucent fabric like nylon or chiffon or silk. The garment's hemline is usually about six inches above the knee like a minidress and may have a scoop-neck. Usually panties are worn underneath.
It is said the name was popularized by the 1956 movie Baby Doll starring Carroll Baker in the title role, which essentially marked the beginning of the enduring popularity of the style for adults.
The babydoll is now a highly eroticized item of adult apparel. The gown is often sold as a set with matching panties as a typical babydoll is short enough that underwear is visible if worn.
