When you consider that one-third of our life is spent sleeping it makes sense that we should put some thought into what we wear during that time. That’s why I’m bringing you all the best pajamas for women that will definitely keep you looking stylish as you sleep when you go down for breakfast, and whenever else you want to wear your pajamas.
In fact, you’ll find the most comfortable pajamas below, from cozy flannel and cotton pjs to silky, glamorous nightwear, so you may just want to wear your pjs all day.
Does it matter what your pajamas look like?
When it comes to pajamas everyone has an opinion. On one hand, some think; “I’m just sleeping, no one will care or notice.”
On the other hand, some think; “This is a fairly good chunk of my life, I need to look put together.”
I fall into the latter category. Pajamas should not be an afterthought, they should be an acknowledged part of your wardrobe.
When it comes to pajamas for women there are so many choices. There are also quite a few things to consider when you’re looking for a good night’s sleep.
What to consider when choosing women’s pajamas
Below are some factors to think about before you choose your next pair of pajamas…
Style and fit
Our style evolves over our lifetime. As we get older, we tend to be a little more on the conservative side. We opt for pajamas that offer more coverage and perhaps more practicality.
The fit and style of pajamas are important. If these two elements are off, you will be uncomfortable. Discomfort will most likely cause you to wake in the middle of the night to adjust…something.
The bottom line is pajamas should fit you well. There should not be any tightness or pulling, and the only thing you should feel is comfort.
Pajamas for women are available in all size categories so it should not be difficult to find the right fit.
Remember to think of your pajamas as an extension of your wardrobe, don’t be afraid to have them tailored for the right fit.
Nothing detracts from an elegant look like ill-fitting clothes, pajamas included.
Sheree @shesheshow above enjoys coffee with a view in her leopard print pajamas.
Get her look with this similar pajama set (other options here and here).
Pajamas for women: what is the best type of fabric for pajamas?
When choosing pajamas fabric is probably the most important factor.
The fabric you choose directly affects your body temperature, your comfort level, and subsequently your quality of sleep.
Understanding the properties and benefits of the fabrics most often used for sleepwear is important.
We love natural fabrics as you’ll see in this article: Do you have a problem wearing synthetic fabrics?
Look for moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton, linen, bamboo and wool. Silk also regulates temperature well, while warmer choices like flannel are your friend in cooler weather.
Consider the temperature and humidity where you are and whether you tend to get hot or cold easily. This will help you make the best choice for your needs.
Adaline @sdmomstyles above opts for a classic, silky pair of neutral pajamas and cozy slippers.
Recreate her outfit with this similar pajama set (another option here) and slippers (another option here).
Are you choosing pajamas for a gift?
We always think pajamas make such a good gift idea for women. If you are choosing pajamas as a gift, make sure you choose an extra-special pair.
The Escalier pajama set (below) for example feature a striking pattern and print.
Escalier Silk Satin Floral Pajama Set
Or,if your recipient leans towards minimalist style, you could choose a pajamas set like the one from the White Company (below).
The White Company Silk Classic Striped Pajama Set
If your pajamas are a gift, then looking for beautiful colors and fabrics is essential. Washable silk is pretty and practical.
Lunya Washable Mulberry Silk T-Shirt Pajamas
The SKIMS pajamas (below) are designed to look and feel like the sort of pajamas you would wear for a luxury hotel stay.
Are you just sleeping in your pajamas or will they be seen at breakfast
If you tend to wear your pajamas as loungewear and at breakfast time rather than just in bed, you are likely to want a beautiful pair.
Alison @wardrobe_oxygen above (read her style interview here) opts for pajamas with a striking floral print.
She is wearing Soma’s floral pajama top and ankle pants.
Are you looking for winter pajamas or summer pajamas?
Of course, you may feel the cold more than others, or perhaps you regularly get too hot during the night. In which case you will want to choose pajamas for your body temperature.
But you will also want to consider the seasons. You are likely to want a thicker, cozier pair of pajamas for the cooler months than if you are on summer vacation, for example.
If you get really cold, you could choose a pair of thermal pajamas like the ones from PajamaGram (below) which are designed to keep you warm in cooler months.
PajamaGram Shearling Rollneck Pajama Set
Celebrity inspiration
While you don’t often see celebrities in their pajamas, you can still be influenced by your favorite stars when it comes to your pajama choice.
What pajamas does Oprah wear?
We’ve seen Oprah say that her favorite pajamas are Cozy Earth’s long sleeve bamboo set. So, you’d be in good company if you choose these to sleep in. They come in a great choice of colors and the bamboo fabric helps to regulate your temperature.
Cozy Earth Long Sleeve Bamboo Pajama Set
What pajamas does Jennifer Aniston wear?
We spotted Jennifer getting ready for the Emmy Awards in a pair of stylish Pour les Femmes crinkle pajamas. We’re sure she’d love this shorts set. Take a look at how to dress like Jennifer Aniston for more inspiration.
Pour Les Femmes Angel Crinkled Cotton-Gauze Pajama Set
What pajamas does Kate Middleton wear?
Ok, so we’ve never actually seen the Princess of Wales in her sleepwear! But, we know she loves to wear Boden, so we’re imagining she could well have a pair of their brushed cotton pjs.
Boden Brushed Cotton Pyjama Shirt – Boden Brushed Cotton Pyjama Trouser
The best pajamas to choose, no matter what the season
Now, let’s take a look at more of the best women’s pajamas to choose that we’ve spotted in stores now…
Softest women’s pajamas
When you go to bed, the last thing you want is to feel itchy or uncomfortable because of your fabric choice.
The pajamas from Papinelle (below) are another good choice if you want a pair of soft, casual pajamas.
Papinelle Super Soft Thermal Knit Pajamas
SKIMS pajamas also have great reviews for softness, as they’re made from modal fabric.
Most comfortable pajamas
More so than any other item of clothing, your pajamas need to be comfortable. Otherwise, you simply won’t get quality sleep. The long sleeve pajama set (below) comes in a good choice of colors, patterns and prints, and reviewers say the outside feels like a cozy soft T-shirt while the inside feels like brushed cotton.
The long sleeve pajamas (below) come in a huge range of colors and have thousands of good reviews. Wearers say they are super soft and well-made.
Ekouaer Soft Button Down Pajama Set
Christmas pajamas for women
As the festive season is coming up, many of you may be looking for a pair of pajamas that would be perfect for Christmas morning. The fun print below features big cats in Santa hats.
Printfresh Holly Jolly Bagheera Flannel Long Sleep Set
For a subtle take on the festive trend, opt for a snowflake print.
The White Company Brushed Cotton Snowflake Pajama Set
Cotton pajamas for women
Cotton fabrics are probably one of the best options for pajamas no matter what time of year it is as they are soft, lightweight and easy to care for.
Additionally, cotton allows for air circulation due to its breathability. It is important to note that cotton absorbs moisture, so if night sweats are a concern, however, this may not be the best option for you.
The White Company Cotton Classic Pajama Set
Boden’s brushed cotton pajamas feel great to wear and they come in a choice of stylish prints.
Boden Brushed Cotton Pyjama Shirt / Pyjama Trouser
Best silk pajamas for women
For those who want to sleep in luxury, silk is a great option, as it is a natural thermo regulator.
It keeps you warm when it’s cold and keeps you cool when it’s warm.
The primary concern with silk pajamas is that they may be slippery. Although it’s often recommended to dry clean silk pajamas we personally just wash them by hand. If that’s too much work for you the dry cleaning bills can add up.
You could still save these for special occasions though! Silk pajamas also make a beautiful gift option.
The White Company Silk Lace Detail Cami Pajama Set
Cozy Earth Classic Long Sleeve Pajama Top – Cozy Earth Classic Pajama Pant
jersey pajamas
Jersey is a comfy choice as it’s soft and it moves with you. Choose a classic pair like The White Company pajamas (below) and you can wear them for loungewear or when travelling too.
The White Company Jersey Long Sleeve Satin Trim Pajama Set
The jersey shorts set (below) Is a great option for warmer months.
Eberjey Gisele Relaxed Jersey Knit Short Pajamas
Comfy pjs: Lounge pajamas
Loungewear is a popular option right now. Opt for a pair of lounge pajamas that you can wear during the night, or to relax during the day.
UGG Gable Brushed Drawstring Pullover & Joggers Lounge Set
The Honeydew intimates set is a lovely neutral choice. Perfect for the minimalists among you.
Honeydew Intimates Renew Lounge Set
For for more style inspiration, check out the best loungewear for women over 40.
Best sleepwear for women: Moisture-wicking sleepwear
Moisture-wicking sleepwear is great for anyone who deals with night sweats.
Just like activewear, these fabrics draw moisture to the surface and allow it to evaporate, allowing the wearer to remain dry.
Bamboo is a fantastic fabric for sleepwear because of its moisture-wicking properties. Wearers say the short sleeve set (below) is soft and comfortable.
Joyaria Short Sleeve Bamboo Pajamas Set
Winter pajamas – flannel pajamas for women
During the cold winter months, flannel is a great option as it is breathable and provides warmth. To feel really cozy, flannel would be a good choice if you’re looking for the warmest pajamas for chilly weather.
Eberjey Plaid Cotton Flannel Pajamas
Warmest women’s pajamas: Fleece pajamas
Fleece traps a layer of air around your body so is a great option if you feel the cold in the winter months.
Best pjs: Satin pajamas
These satin pajamas from Printfresh look just like silk and have classic styling. They come in a great choice of prints.
Printfresh Bagheera Satin Pajama Set
We also love the geometric print on the silk-satin set (below), which will brighten up your bedtimes.
Trina Turk x Bedhead Pajamas Geometric-Print Silk Satin Pajama Set
modal blend
Modal is very soft and breathable. The Soma pajamas (below) have classic piping and come in a choice of four colors. They’re a great blend of cotton and modal.
Soma Embraceable Long-Sleeve Pajama Set
Glamorous pajamas
If you are on vacation, you want to look amazing while staying as a guest with friends, or you just want to feel glamorous while sleeping, these pajamas from The White Company could be the ones for you. The lace details add glamour.
The White Company Jersey Lace Yoke Pajama Set
If you’re somewhere warm, then a short set of lace pajamas will work well.
Flora Nikrooz Gabby Lace Trim Satin Charmeuse Short Pajamas
Floral pajamas
Flowers are always a popular print for pajamas. Even if you don’t usually wear prints day-to-day, pajamas can be a good way to bring some patterns into your wardrobe.
Desmond & Dempsey Long Sleeve Cotton Pajamas
Midnight Bakery Dylan Floral Print Satin Short Pajamas
Women’s pajama sets
A classic pajama set choice is to choose a pair with piping like the J.Crew set (below) which comes with a sleep mask and has great reviews from wearers who say they fit and wash nicely.
J.Crew Eco Dreamiest Pajama Set
Matching pajamas
While you can opt for pajama separates, just as you can choose separates, rather than a suit for work, we always think matching pajamas help you to feel particularly put together.
Printfresh Big Cat Energy Long Sleep Set
kimono style
The kimono styling of the jacket adds a point of difference to your sleepwear.
LAKE DreamKnit Kimono Pajama Set
Summer pajamas
While long flannel pajamas are a great idea to stay cozy during colder months, you also need to ensure your wardrobe has sleepwear to keep you comfortable during warmer weather.
Shortie pajamas or cropped pajamas are a great option for this, providing comfort and coverage while keeping you cool.
kate spade new york Crop Jersey Pajamas
Lunya Washable Silk T-Shirt 2-Piece Pajama Set
Women’s pajama pants
Perhaps you prefer to wear separates, or you like to wear a t-shirt, vest or camisole with your pajamas rather than choosing a matching set. In that case, you could opt for a pair of pajama bottoms and wear whatever you want to on top.
Barefoot Dreams Ultra Soft Rib Wide Leg Pajama Pants
Robes to go with your pajamas
What will you wear over your pajamas when you pop down to breakfast? You could opt for a cozy robe to wear as you have your coffee.
Printfresh Bagheera Satin Robe
Nordstrom Shawl Collar Plush Longline Robe
Slippers to go with your pajamas
You’ll also want to keep your feet cozy with a pair of stylish slippers or socks in the colder months.
Accessories to go with your pajamas
Just as with all your outfits, you’ll want to accessorize your pajamas. A cozy pair of socks will keep your feet cozy, sleep masks and blankets will help you to doze off, and you can always treat yourself to candles and sleep oil to finish your night-time ritual.
Bearaby Organic Cotton Weighted Knit Blanket
Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil
Diptyque Baies (Berries) Scented Candle
Should you change your pajamas every night?
So, now that you’ve found your favorite pajamas, how often should you change your pajamas? Well, just as slipping between clean sheets feels great, so does wearing a fresh, clean pair of pajamas. So, if you want to change them every night, go ahead.
The American Cleaning Institute recommends you change them once every three or four wears, so two or three pairs should be perfect to last a week.
shop the best pajamas for women here:
What do you like to wear at night? What helps you to feel comfortable and to sleep better? I’d love to hear about your own recommendations for the best pajamas for women.
Continue reading:
- The Best Loungewear That Makes You Feel Comfortable AND Stylish
- Holiday Gift Guide: The Best Gift Ideas For Women Over 40
- The Ultimate Checklist Of Wardrobe Essentials: Which 28 Essential Pieces Do You Need In Your Closet?
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Feature image by Alison @wardrobe_oxygen
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Need inseam 28 inches or shorter. I like cotton knit with pocket. I look for Ralph Lauren on sale
Night gowns or vintage slips are my favorite, I’m a pear, men’s style pajamas aren’t my favorite.
Larger bust… Button ups are not my thing, not even for PJs. I prefer knee length nightgowns [or maxi style with slits for lounging] and sleep shorts with tanks. Ladies, you have to try Soma. I nearly exclusively shop there for PJs and underwear. OMG, the cool nights line is a must for those of us who sleep warm.
I was hoping to find tips on buying pajamas by body type. I’m a pear shape so my PJs often fit well on top but not bottom, or vice versa. Many of us Pear Women buy separates because we have no other choice 🙁
If there are any pajamas that are generously cut in the trouser half (relative to the top), I would love to know about them!
I wear night gowns as I don’t like tightness around my middle when I sleep. For Australian hot summer nights I’ve recently found a cotton silk mix gown that is so cool to sleep in, has pockets, can be washed, and not as expensive as 100% silk.
Sounds just like me! Where can we get one! Lol
Yes sound perfect! Please who is the designer so we can do a google search
I haven’t ever bought any PJ’s. I am more of a night dress woman. And it is very hard to find a good one. Especially for winter.
I agree with Greetje. I wear a night GOWN not pants to bed. It is very hard to find one that looks cute and flatters a bra-less older woman! I used to have one with a vertically ruched empire top part, which for some reason was very flattering, and it went down to my KNEES which was awesome and very rare to find, and the fabric was NOT see-through. It was both flattering and conservative and I could wear it around the house in the evenings. I miss it. =(
I would buy the one you describe! Definitely.
this is phenomenal, so educational, and puts a different spin on pjs
I recently picked up some Kate Spade cotton black and white polka dotted/striped pjs on sale and I absolutely love them and are looking to purchase another pair. Even at their regular price I would have purchased them – they even have pockets!
I totally agree with you Sharon – pajamas should be flattering and we should feel good in them. I have an extensive collection of pj’s and robes in all fabrics and colours and yes, I love flannel for our cold Canadian winters.
Great article!
This is a very timely as I am looking to replace my sleepwear due to night sweats. You mention moisture-wicking sleepwear but you failed to specify which fabrics are the best in moisture-wicking. Some guidance I this would be greatly appreciated.
I love Soma’s Cool Nights fabric. It’s available in many styles of pajamas/chemises too: https://www.soma.com/store/category/cool+nights+sleep/cat12089474/
thanks for the feedback Nicole. These look great!