What Is a Negligee? Meaning, Styles and How to Wear One
Negligee is one of the most searched lingerie words in the UK, and one of the most loosely used. This guide explains what a negligee actually is, how it differs from a chemise, babydoll or nightgown, and how to pick and wear one.
The quick answer
Negligee meaning and origin
The word comes from the French négligé, which literally means “neglected” and was used for casual, informal dress worn at home. Over time it came to mean the delicate, see-through nightgowns we think of today. In English you will see it spelt negligee or négligé; both mean the same thing.
Today “negligee” is an umbrella term. Retailers use it for sheer lace nighties, satin slips with lace trim, and nightdress and robe sets. What they share is a light, pretty fabric and a loose, flowing fit.
Negligee vs chemise vs babydoll vs nightgown
| Style | Shape | Fabric | Typical length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Negligee | Loose and flowing, often with a robe | Sheer lace, mesh, chiffon or satin | Thigh to floor |
| Chemise | Straight slip, no waist seam | Usually satin | Mid-thigh to knee |
| Babydoll | Fitted under the bust, short flared skirt | Lace, mesh or satin | Upper thigh |
| Nightgown | Loose, made mainly for sleeping | Cotton, jersey or satin | Knee to ankle |
Types of negligee
- Negligee and robe set: a slip or chemise with a matching robe, the classic bridal and honeymoon choice.
- Sheer lace negligee set: a lace or mesh chemise with a matching thong or G-string.
- Satin chemise negligee: a satin slip with lace trim, the most comfortable to sleep in.
- Long negligee: a longer, floaty nightgown, sometimes with side slits.
- Plus size negligee: loose satin and lace styles cut in XXL and above. See our plus size nightwear.
How to wear a negligee
For bed: choose satin or a soft stretch lace with flat seams. Satin slides rather than twists, so it is the easiest to sleep in.
For a wedding night or honeymoon: a negligee and robe set in ivory, champagne or white is the traditional pick. See our white and bridal lingerie.
For an occasion: layer a sheer lace negligee over a matching thong, or wear a long negligee with a robe for a softer, more covered look.
Sizing and care
Negligees are cut loose, so go by your bust measurement. If you are between sizes in lace or mesh, size up, as they stretch less than satin. Our negligees run from UK S to XXL (UK 8 to 18); the Size & Fit Guide lists bust, waist and hip in centimetres and inches.
Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent, never wring, and dry flat away from direct heat. Our lingerie care guide has more detail.
UK delivery is free on every order. We dispatch within 24 hours, delivery takes 2–5 days, and unworn, tagged items can be returned or exchanged within 28 days.
FAQs
What is a negligee?
A negligee is a light, sheer or semi-sheer nightgown, usually in lace, mesh, chiffon or satin. It is often sold as a set with a matching robe or knickers.
What does negligee mean?
It comes from the French négligé, meaning neglected or casual, originally used for informal dress worn at home. Today it means a delicate, often see-through nightgown.
What is the difference between a negligee and a chemise?
A chemise is a straight slip, usually in satin. A negligee is the sheerer, more decorative version and often comes with a robe. A satin chemise with lace trim is often called a chemise negligee.
What do you wear under a negligee?
Most negligee sets come with a matching thong or G-string. With a very sheer style you can also layer a satin chemise underneath.
What does a negligee look like?
Usually a loose, flowing nightdress in lace, mesh or satin, with thin straps and a V or lace-trimmed neckline. Short styles look like a slip; long styles look like a floaty gown.
What sizes do negligees come in?
Our negligees come in UK S to XXL (UK 8 to 18), and our plus size nightwear goes up to 4XL.
