Chemises have come a long way since their invention. Worn for centuries as an undergarment, they are mostly used as a comfortable sleepwear option nowadays. With the evolution of fashion, plain chemises have transformed into stylish pieces that come in hundreds of styles from brands worldwide.
What is a Chemise?
A modern-day chemise is a lightweight, loose-fit garment, typically made out of cotton or silk. Women use it as an alternative to pajamas and nightgowns. Recently, it has become a must-have in many wardrobes, not only as a nightwear piece, but also as a unique fashion accessory.
Sometimes associated with the more "sexy" lingerie category, a chemise can be minimalistic and practical. If you're not into Calais lace and see-through frills, there are dozens of more casual styles to be found in any bigger shop. Online retailers also offer a wide selection; you can go for a simple, low-cost option, or splurge on a designer nightie for a slightly higher price. Whatever you choose, you can be sure it will be worth it.
Is There a Difference Between a Chemise and a Shift?
A chemise and a shift are the same thing! The term "shift" came from English, and "chemise" from French, and both are used to describe a piece of underwear. Today, the words are synonymous, and in a modern-day context, refer to the popular nightwear option.
The only difference that can be found is purely linguistic: sometimes "chemise" refers to a more delicate, decorative nightgown, while "shift" can indicate more durable, plain underwear. The word choice is usually up to individual preference.
Why a Chemise is Your New Best Friend
There are many reasons for getting a chemise! Made from high-quality materials, they can give your body a soft embrace that will help you relax after a long day.
- The loose fit provides comfortable movement and allows for better airflow. Proper sleep attire can improve your sleep quality!
- As they are made in a variety of fabrics, from thicker cotton to sheer chiffon, they can keep you warm in winter and cool in summer.
- They exude feminity! The delicate charm of a nightgown adds to your natural beauty and makes you look elegant and graceful when you sleep.
If you're brave enough or want to spice up your everyday look, you can use a chemise in your outerwear outfits as well!
How to Wear a Chemise?
Of course, you can use your nightshirt as a replacement for pajamas, but it can also become your go-to piece to hang around the house if you so desire. It can be worn with matching lingerie or not. You can also opt to don a chemise in the traditional historical manner, if you like! Slip it under your dress to smooth out your shape and create a base layer for warmth and extra comfort. Your style is unique; you alone determine what you wear and how you wear it.
With modern women's fashion being all about versatility and experimenting, chemise has recently become a popular addition to an everyday wardrobe. There are dozens of ways you can style one: use it instead of a shirt under a blazer for a dash of femme allure, layer over a turtleneck for a whimsical look, or pair a satin nightie with plain jeans and trainers for a casual yet chic ensemble. The combinations are endless, so the next piece you order might just become a new wardrobe staple! What’s more, you can buy those easily in Canada!
Be extra comfortable in your clothes, just as you are in your skin!
Hanky Panky Chemises
Showing 11 of 404 products
SKU: 485832 BLACK-XS
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
From ruched top to ruffled hem and everywhere along the way, be the leggy cigarette girl of your retro dreams. • Princess seamed mini-length chemise with flirty ruffled and flared skirt • Sweetheart neckline with front ruching • Adjustable straps...
SKU: 865084X MOCHA-1X
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
Hanky Panky Silky is the ideal fabric for underpinnings. Made from a naturally hydrophilic filament rayon Lycra® spandex blend, it resists generating static, as compared to synthetic fibers. Fitted mini-length full-slip Measures 32” from the shoulder, or approximately 16” from...
SKU: 865084X BLACK-1X
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
Hanky Panky Silky is the ideal fabric for underpinnings. Made from a naturally hydrophilic filament rayon Lycra® spandex blend, it resists generating static, as compared to synthetic fibers. Fitted mini-length full-slip Measures 32” from the shoulder, or approximately 16” from...
SKU: 485832X BLACK-1X
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
SKU: 6565N1 WHITE-S
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
When you’re ready for dreamland, our classic, comfy 100% Supima® cotton nightshirt guarantees a great night's sleep.• V-neck short sleeve Supima® cotton interlock knit nightshirt• Curved, shirttail hem• Hits at knee• Cut to accommodate shrinkage—will shrink approximately 10% in length...
SKU: 6565N1 POWDER BLUE-S
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
When you’re ready for dreamland, our classic, comfy 100% Supima® cotton nightshirt guarantees a great night's sleep.• V-neck short sleeve Supima® cotton interlock knit nightshirt• Curved, shirttail hem• Hits at knee• Cut to accommodate shrinkage—will shrink approximately 10% in length...
SKU: 6565N1 BLISS PINK-S
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
When you’re ready for dreamland, our classic, comfy 100% Supima® cotton nightshirt guarantees a great night's sleep.• V-neck short sleeve Supima® cotton interlock knit nightshirt• Curved, shirttail hem• Hits at knee• Cut to accommodate shrinkage—will shrink approximately 10% in length...
SKU: 6565N1 BLACK-S
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
When you’re ready for dreamland, our classic, comfy 100% Supima® cotton nightshirt guarantees a great night's sleep.• V-neck short sleeve Supima® cotton interlock knit nightshirt• Curved, shirttail hem• Hits at knee• Cut to accommodate shrinkage—will shrink approximately 10% in length...
SKU: 485701 BLACK-S
AVAILABILITY: In stock (9 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
Effortlessly evoke glamour without giving up comfort. A plunging neckline and beautiful lace make this a chemise to dream in. • Retro lace bodice with a signature lace skirt • Adjustable straps • Approximately 32” long Composition Body: 100% Nylon;...
SKU: 485016 BLACK-XS
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
Make an entrance in this lacy chemise. Flounce and flair – the cocktail dress of chemises! • Unlined v-neck chemise in our signature stretch lace • Flounce at hem • Non-adjustable straps • High-low skirt • Approximately 32” long at...
SKU: 485214X BLACK-1X
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
PRODUCT TYPE: Chemises
BRAND: Hanky Panky
100% Nylon Made in US Hand Wash Signature lace A-line shape Composition 100% Nylon