Light, fluid and inherently sensual, the babydoll has become one of the most enduring silhouettes in the world of lingerie. It bridges eras and moods, blending the nostalgia of vintage nightwear with the confidence of modern design.
A lingerie babydoll is a short, flowing gown with a fitted bust and an airy skirt that falls to the thigh. Its delicate movement, transparency and soft fabrics make it both romantic and empowering. Whether crafted in lace, silk or sheer mesh, it reveals just enough to intrigue while remaining unmistakably elegant.
At Luciela, each babydoll is handmade in Lisbon from sustainable Italian mesh and lace. Designed to move with the body and highlight natural form, these pieces celebrate femininity through meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design.
Explore the Babydoll Collection to discover your perfect match.
From 1940s Seduction to a Modern Icon
The babydoll was born in the 1940s when American designer Sylvia Pedlar created a shorter nightgown out of necessity during fabric rationing. Its lightness and playfulness stood in stark contrast to the structured corsetry of the era. What began as practicality soon became a quiet statement of freedom, marking the beginning of what would later be known as the lingerie babydoll.
By the 1950s, the babydoll had captured Hollywood’s imagination with pastel tones, satin trims and cinematic glamour. In the 1960s, it evolved alongside social change, symbolising independence and confidence.
Today, the babydoll continues to evolve. It appears not only in intimate wear collections but also on fashion runways, styled over denim or under oversized tailoring. Valued by modern women for its versatility and comfort, its ability to adapt makes it both timeless and contemporary.
The Luciela Interpretation
At Luciela, this versatility meets responsibility. Our babydolls embody how sustainable materials and luxurious design can coexist beautifully. The lace and mesh in our designs come from European suppliers specialising in recycled and biodegradable fabrics, reducing environmental impact while maintaining lightness and comfort. Each babydoll is produced in limited runs by a boutique atelier in Portugal, ensuring fair production and exceptional quality, and every detail is intentional, designed to celebrate the body rather than disguise it.
- Wisteria Floral Lace Babydoll: A dreamy fusion of lavender lace and powder-blue mesh, offering a light, ethereal feel.
- Thistle Sheer Mesh Babydoll: Designed with bold teal lace and an open front for movement and allure.
- Pink Poppy Lace Babydoll: Pale pink lace meets a halter neckline that frames the shoulders and provides soft support.

How to Choose the Perfect Babydoll: Styling, Size and Care Tips
What makes the babydoll timeless is how it adapts to different moods and moments, beyond lingerie.
- Bridal elegance: Pair a white or pastel babydoll with a sheer kimono for a luminous wedding morning or honeymoon look.
- Everyday confidence: Wear a lace babydoll with a long mesh robe or soft knit for evenings of calm and comfort.
- Modern layering: Combine a sheer babydoll with structured tailoring or a slip dress for a subtle, fashion-forward look.
- The perfect gift: A luxury babydoll makes a considered present for anniversaries or bridal occasions. Its forgiving fit and timeless appeal make it universally flattering.
Finding the right size is simple. Measure your bust and refer to our size guide. All babydolls follow the same measurements as our bralettes, with a flowing skirt that adapts naturally to the body.
If you are gifting a babydoll, discreetly check the recipient’s current bust size. Our pieces are designed to be forgiving in fit, ensuring comfort and confidence for every body type.
CARE TIP: To preserve the delicate materials, hand wash with a gentle detergent and air dry flat. You can find more details in our garment care guide.
The babydoll has survived generations of changing fashion because it captures something universal: the pleasure of feeling at ease in your own skin. A symbol of modern femininity, it balances ease, lightness and understated confidence – a silhouette that continues to evolve, but never quite leaves.
Explore More
- Complete the look with our cover ups
- Learn about our commitment to sustainable sourcing

