In the past, a woman's corset was usually worn over a garment called a chemise or shift, a sleeveless low-necked gown made of washable material (usually cotton or linen). It absorbed perspiration and kept the corset and the gown clean. In modern times, an undershirt or corset liner may be worn.
Originally, they were marketed under the name camiknickers; the name was coined in the 1920s when they were introduced as a one piece garment and it was derived from camisole and knickers. It was an appropriate garment to wear under the shorter dresses of the time and also gained popularity during the World War II when women who served in military related duties wore trousers instead of skirts. By the late 1940s the garment became less popular. The garment re-appeared in the lingerie market in the 1990s under the name teddy or body.
