Definition of a Babydoll Dress
The babydoll dress is an easy-wearing, comfortable dress for women of all shapes and heights. Available in casual and evening variations, the babydoll has its origins in the days of the Renaissance. This popular dress is sold in most women's clothing stores, with its high period during the spring and summer fashion seasons.
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Identification
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The babydoll dress is easy to spot because of two attributes: the high empire waist and loose, A-line skirt. Usually, babydoll dresses will fall anywhere between slightly above the knee, to several inches below. However, the hemline for the babydoll silhouette normally ends above the calf. The bodice section of the garment can be loose or tight, and may be worn with or without a belt.
History
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The babydoll dress resembles gowns from the Renaissance period, and also has some commonality with dress from the Regency era. The high-waisted profile was one that showcased the bust, accented the waist, and added a youthful appearance to the wearer. In modern times, the babydoll made an appearance in the 1960s and 1970s, fading out till the 1990s grunge fashion movement. One of the most famous babydoll dress denizens was Courtney Love during her stint as Hole's lead singer.
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Function
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The babydoll dress is wonderful for year-round wear. However, it's especially common in summer dresses due to the looseness of the skirt. Designers have been using the babydoll silhouette for cocktail wear; a popular variation is a strapless bodice, bow-tie belt, and shimmering fabric for the skirt. The babydoll dress is the dress to wear for modest feminine appeal.
Considerations
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The biggest thing to think about with the babydoll silhouette is fit. This can be a tricky area, since the wrong fabric or awkward gathers above the tummy can easily create a chubby look. The hemline also makes a big difference. On shorter women, the hem should be above the knee in order to minimize odd visual "cutting" of the body; taller women can get away with a longer length.
Time Frame
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Some think that the babydoll is only appropriate for women under 40, and that it's too young and flighty otherwise. Many designers and stores geared toward this age bracket sell babydolls, but in darker shades and heavier fabrics that hide figure flaws. However, fashion rules are made to be broken. It's most important to wear fabrics that will make the most of the figure, no matter what the age; the empire-waist babydoll cocktail gown can look like a million bucks on a 200, or 50-, year-old.
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Resources
- Photo Credit 2008 Digital Sophia Photography / Creative Commons
