A
bodystocking is a one-piece
skin-tight garment that covers the torso, legs and sometimes the arms of the wearer. It is a
foundation garment or an article of
lingerie usually made from a
sheer fabric similar to that used for
stockings or
pantyhose, or from
fishnet,
lace or an opaque material, or a variation of these materials. A bodystocking differs from a
unitard, which is worn as an outfit or article of clothing, and a
leotard, which is used as a practice garment or performance costume for
acrobats,
gymnasts and other similar performers. Designed to be revealed, but not to be too revealing, bodystockings may be worn as undergarments by performers such as
belly dancers and
exotic dancers.