Camisole
Fashion Influence — how style shapes, and is shaped by, the people who wear it
The camisole — cami for short — is the strap-topped undergarment that became an outerwear staple. This guide covers its fabrics, its spaghetti straps, and how it differs from a chemise.
Camisole
A camisole which is also referred to as a cami is a loose-fitting sleeveless woman's undergarment which covers the top part of the body. If you are thinking that this definition is similar to a chemise, we should point out that the cami is shorter than a chemise.
The camisole is usually made of satin, silk, nylon, or cotton but can be made with other textile fibers as well.
A camisole typically has thin "spaghetti straps" and can be worn over a brassiere or without one.
Do you know the difference between a camisole and chemise? If you have other questions about fashion, you may want to visit our fashion question & answer section.
A variety of sleeveless body shaping undergarments have been derived from the camisole shape. This camisole style shapewear offers medium control of the bust, waist and/or abdomen. Such control or shapewear camisoles are one of the most casual of shaping garments. They cover the torso from above the chest and go down to at or below the waist. They look similar to tight-fitting cotton or silk camisoles, but the straps are usually wider, the hems longer, and the stretchy, shiny fabric provides a smoothing touch.
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From Undergarment to Outerwear
The camisole's move from underwear drawer to visible layer is one of fashion's recurring stories. Worn under a blouse, it adds a smooth layer and modesty where a neckline runs low. Worn under an open cardigan or jacket, the same garment becomes the visible top, with its lace trim or satin sheen doing decorative work. Worn on its own in warm weather, it functions as a sleeveless top. The garment did not change — its styling did, which is why camisoles are sold in both plain layering versions and trimmed, dressier versions meant to be seen.
Length is the practical dividing line from the chemise. A camisole covers the top part of the body and ends around the waist or hip; a chemise runs longer, more like a short slip or dress. Strap width helps too: the camisole's thin spaghetti straps are its signature, while related garments like tank tops use wider straps and heavier fabric.
Common Questions
What is a camisole?
A loose-fitting sleeveless undergarment which covers the top part of the body, usually made of satin, silk, nylon or cotton, and typically finished with thin spaghetti straps. It can be worn over a brassiere or without one.
What is the difference between a camisole and a chemise?
Length. The camisole is shorter than a chemise: a cami covers the upper body, while a chemise is a longer, loose, sleeveless garment that hangs more like a short dress.
Can a camisole be worn as a top?
Yes — layered under open shirts and jackets, or alone in warm weather. Satin and lace-trimmed versions are made to be seen; plain cotton versions are made for layering.