Bodies & Teddies

Bodies and teddies are probably the most versatile pieces of lingerie you can own. They look amazing on their own, they layer brilliantly under blazers and high-waisted trousers, and they eliminate that awkward gap between your top and bottoms. If you've never tried a one-piece, you might be surprised by how flattering they are on pretty much every body shape.

A body, sometimes called a bodysuit, is a fitted one-piece that snaps or hooks at the gusset. It stays tucked in and creates a smooth, sleek silhouette from the shoulders to the hips. They range from simple, everyday pieces in plain fabrics to elaborate lace and mesh designs with strappy details, open backs, or cut-out panels.

A teddy is similar but usually has a looser, more flowing fit without the gusset closure. Think of it as somewhere between a body and a chemise. Teddies tend to be more obviously bedroom-oriented, while bodies can genuinely cross over into daywear. Both sit comfortably in our womens range alongside basques and bodystockings as one-piece options.

For a going-out look, pair a lace or mesh body with high-waisted jeans or a pencil skirt and a blazer. The body does the work of a top and a bra at the same time, and because it's secured at the gusset, it won't ride up or come untucked during the evening. For the bedroom, a strappy body or a sheer teddy makes a statement without needing any accessories.

If you're concerned about practicality and bathroom breaks, look for bodies with snap closures at the gusset rather than ones you have to pull off entirely. Most of ours have this, but it's worth checking the description before you buy.

Most bodies and teddies are fine in the washing machine on a delicate cycle inside a mesh bag. Snap any gusset closures shut before washing so they don't catch on the fabric. Avoid the tumble dryer, especially for lace or mesh pieces, and lay flat to dry instead. If your body has any metallic hardware like rings or chains, hand washing is safer because the hardware can damage other items in the machine and can rust if the coating chips.

The big advantage of a one-piece is that everything stays where it's supposed to. No riding up, no gaps between top and bottom, no adjusting throughout the night. Bodies in particular create a smooth line under clothes that separates can't match. For the bedroom, a body or teddy gives you the visual impact of a full lingerie set without actually having to coordinate multiple pieces. It's one item, it looks put-together, and it takes about three seconds to put on.

The most important measurement for a body is the torso length. If you're tall or have a long torso, some bodies will feel uncomfortably tight from shoulder to gusset, pulling everything downward. Look for adjustable straps and check the product dimensions if they're listed. If you're petite, watch out for excess fabric bunching at the waist.

Consider the neckline and back too. A plunge front works under low-cut tops. A high neck looks elegant on its own. An open or strappy back adds drama but might not work under certain jackets. Think about where and how you'll wear it before choosing.

With bodies and teddies, the main quality difference is in the fabric weight and the gusset construction. Budget bodies often have thin, see-through fabric that's fine for bedroom use but not substantial enough to wear as a top. The gusset closures can be flimsy too, popping open at inconvenient moments. Spending a bit more gets you thicker fabric, lined cups where needed, reinforced snap closures, and better overall construction. If you're buying a body to wear out, it's worth spending £25 to £40 on something that'll actually hold up as outerwear.