As many of us are quite aware, pajamas are not just for kids. In fact, pj’s are becoming more common, not less, with teenagers wearing them all day long and parents not even bothering to change into others clothes when they drop their kids off at school.
Originally from Asia, the word pajama comes from the Persian “pyjama,” which means leg garment and was used for pants that were tied around the waist. They were adapted by the English upper classes, towards the end of the 1800’s. After WWI, men’s pajamas that were influenced by military design with buttons and collars became more popular. Coco Chanel countered this with a more tailored style of pajama for women. As she was the most famous designer during this time they were worn mostly by the rich or famous.
However, in the 40’s what came to be known as “Baby Dolls,” a short, loose fitting night dress with bikini pants, became the bedtime standard for all ladies. This lasted through the 60’s when fashion started to become more unisex. Now, we have all types of pajamas for both women and men. Flannels are cozy and warm in the winter. Silk are tanks and shorts are always comfy in the summer.
Since pajamas are as trendy as ever you can find them at Target or on Madison Avenue. Designers make styles that can run you big bucks, such as this silk print from Derek Rose ($625). Then again, you can always opt for a pair that is both comfortable and sexy. Victoria’s Secret has plenty to choose from its Afterhours Satin Pajamas ($75) line that are made in an array of patterns. Onesies, which are almost by definition goofy, can be very affordable and will allow you to express your inner super hero or bunny rabbit.
I think one reason why pajamas might be more ubiquitous now is that more people work from home so the need to dress up for work…or get dressed at all…is not there. Though personally, I like to dress for work on most days (though certainly not all), I am not a fan of being that lax during the work week. But I will admit to chilling and working on the weekends from home, in my jammies, all day long.
