Costumes

What are sexy costumes?

A sexy costume is a seductive take on a character: schoolgirl, police officer, teacher, secretary, maid, bunny, devil, pirate and quite a few more roles. It differs from a fancy dress costume in that it is designed as lingerie: thin, stretchy fabrics, short skirts, plunging necklines, thongs and bodysuits. It works because it sparks the fantasy before any physical contact. Putting on a character gives you permission to act in ways everyday life does not allow, breaks the routine and opens the door to role play without any fuss. They sit within lingerie; if you are after something harder, in leather or vinyl, see fetish and leather, and to cover just the face, the masks.

Types of sexy costumes and why they work

These are the best-selling characters, each with its own game. All of them include basic accessories (cap, handcuffs, hair ties, feather duster or ears, depending on the character). A spicy costume does not have to be just for women: there are also versions for men, such as the devil trikini.

• Schoolgirl or student: the character with the most models on this page, one in six. It is the innocence fantasy, with a pleated skirt and pigtails, and usually comes as a top and skirt or as a set.
• Nurse: the absolute classic, recognisable at a glance. There are three models, two from Leg Avenue and the Aakkie from Passion.
• Police officer: an implied power game, with authority, handcuffs and interrogation. Some come with a cap and handcuffs.
• Mermaid, shepherdess and dancer: storybook and stage characters, with sequins or gloves depending on the model.
• French maid or housemaid: elegant submission, with an apron and feather duster or headband.
• Bunny: ears and a fitted bodysuit, an iconic costume.
• Devil and angel: the classic pair, with a headband depending on the model.
• Teacher, secretary and waitress: office and service roles, often with a mini dress or skirt.
• Christmas: Mrs Claus with a jacket and miniskirt, or a Santa Claus dress.
• Other characters: pirate, cat, Arabian dancer or racing girl, for anyone looking for something less common.

Sizes, fabrics and Halloween

Sizes run from XS to XXL. Many costumes come in double sizes, such as S/M, M/L or L/XL, because the fabric stretches; those that state the composition are usually polyester or nylon with some elastane. If you are between two sizes, the product page gives you the measurements. For larger sizes, also see plus size.

For Halloween there is no separate section, and no vampire, witch or zombie nurse costumes. The closest we have are the devils, the cat and the pirate from Music Legs, and the SWAT police officer from Leg Avenue, which its product page recommends for that night.

How to choose

• Character: pick one that you both find fun or that makes sense in your fantasy; the most recognisable ones work without any explanation.
• What is included: the product page details the pieces (dress, bodysuit, top and skirt, thong) and the accessories, such as headband, cap, gloves or handcuffs.
• Size: check whether it is a double size (S/M, M/L, L/XL) and compare with your bust, waist and hip measurements.
• Fabric: with elastane the costume fits the body better; if you want sheer fabric, the product page says whether the material is mesh or tulle.
• Who it is for: there are costumes for women and for men; read the description to see who it is cut for.

Costumes: frequently asked questions

How do I suggest role play to my partner?

Keep it light and with humour: “I saw this costume and it made me laugh, shall we try it?”. Starting with something you both find fun reduces the tension, and you do not need to act out a full script, because putting on the costume already changes the dynamic. If you feel shy, low lighting helps a lot.

Are sexy costumes good quality?

It depends on the costume. The cheapest are basic, in thin fabric, for 1-5 uses; mid-range ones use better fabrics and reinforced seams, and those from lingerie brands such as Leg Avenue have the quality of real clothing. Here almost half are from Music Legs, followed by S Pleasures, Leg Avenue and Chilirose. The product pages that give the composition almost all say polyester, most with some elastane, which is what makes the garment fit. For frequent use it pays to invest a little more; for one night, a basic one will do.

Which sexy costume should I buy as a gift if I do not know what they like?

Nurse, police officer or bunny. They are among the most universal and recognisable, and they do not point to any specific fantasy that might make someone uncomfortable. Avoid those that suggest explicit submission, such as maid or prisoner, unless you know that person would enjoy it.

Are there sexy costumes for men?

Yes. There are character costumes and briefs for men, such as the devil trikini, and in men's lingerie you will find more pieces for them.

What is the difference between a sexy costume and a fancy dress costume?

A sexy costume is designed as lingerie for intimate moments: it is shorter, more fitted and shows more skin. Some work for a party or a hen or stag night, but most are made to be worn at home.

How do I wash a sexy costume?

By hand, in cold water with a mild soap, unless the label says otherwise. Leave it to dry laid flat and wash plastic or glittery accessories separately.

Browse by brand

• Music Legs
• LEG AVENUE
• S Pleasures
• Chilirose