WONDER WHERE the term babydoll came from? A baby doll (the name is sometimes two words, baby doll, and sometimes hyphenated, baby-doll or babydoll) is a short to the crotch, sometimes a little longer, sometimes a bit shorter, sometimes sleeveless, loose fitting nightgown. Typically 2 layers with chiffon over nylon lining. With frilly lace or bows extras. Sometimes designed with an empire waist (fitted at the ribcage) and poofy skirt.
The gown is often sold as a set with matching panties (as shown with the white vintage Tosca babydoll and panty set) , as a typical babydoll is short enough that underwear is visible if worn. Styles of the same general length but not intended to emphasize sex appeal are sometimes called shortie nightgowns.
I sell a wide variety of vintage Babydoll negligees from the 1950s to the early 1980s and are now collectible vintage items. Some babydolls open in front and resemble a robe or peignoir as well.
So why "BABYDOLL"? It is said the name was popularized by the 1956 movie Baby Doll starring Carroll Baker, which essentially marked the beginning of the enduring popularity of this sweet little style.
Starring Karl Malden as a failing, middle-aged Mississippi cotton gin owner, Carroll Baker as his uneducated teenage wife, nicknamed "Baby Doll", and Eli Wallach as a successful Italian-American businessman who takes over most of the local cotton-gin business.
While the costume design was not nominated, the film is credited with both the name and originating the popularity of the babydoll nightgown, which derives from the costume worn by Baker's character.
Be sure to see all my vintage lingerie, vintage baby dolls up for sale and auction on eBay!
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