Category Archives: Pajama Styles

The Evolution of Comfort: A Pajama Timeline

Embracing the New Year is not just about resolutions; it’s also a great time to reflect on the comforts that have stood the test of time. As we step into a fresh chapter, what better way to appreciate the evolution of relaxation than by delving into the detailed history of pajamas? From their origins in the Indian subcontinent to becoming a symbol of leisure in the modern era, pajamas have woven themselves into the fabric of our lives, reflecting shifts in culture, fashion, and our unwavering pursuit of a restful night’s sleep. Join us on a journey through the centuries as we explore the fascinating evolution of these cozy companions.

Photo Attributions: Michie and Company & Emily Eden

Origins of Pajamas

The word “pajamas” finds its roots in the Indian subcontinent, where lightweight, loose-fitting garments called “paijamas” were worn by locals as early as the 17th century. These original pajamas were often made of cotton and served as comfortable loungewear suitable for both day and night. The term itself is a linguistic gift from the Hindi and Urdu languages, with the concept of comfortable sleepwear gradually making its way to the Western world.

Introduction to the West

The British encountered these comfortable garments during their colonization of India, and by the 19th century, pajamas had made their way to the Western world. However, the adoption of this new sleepwear was slow, as traditional nightshirts and nightgowns continued to dominate sleep fashion. Pajamas, with their distinct two-piece design, faced initial resistance from the more established one-piece nightshirt and nightgown styles.

The Victorian Era

During the Victorian era, sleepwear became more of a fashion statement. Women donned nightdresses with elaborate frills and lace, while men opted for nightshirts that resembled long, button-up shirts. Pajamas, as we know them today, started to take shape during this time as a more practical alternative to the ornate nightwear of the era. The design evolved to include a collared, button-up shirt paired with comfortable trousers, catering to the changing needs and preferences of sleepers.

20th Century Innovations

The 20th century saw significant advancements in textile technology, leading to the mass production of affordable and comfortable fabrics. This, coupled with changing societal attitudes, contributed to the widespread acceptance of pajamas as standard sleepwear. The versatility of pajamas also increased during this period, with different styles emerging to suit various climates and individual preferences.

The Golden Age of Hollywood The glamour of Hollywood played a crucial role in popularizing pajamas. Film stars of the 1930s and 1940s were often portrayed in stylish and sophisticated sleepwear, influencing fashion trends and encouraging people to embrace pajamas as a fashionable choice for bedtime attire. Iconic images of movie stars lounging in elegant pajama sets contributed to the association of pajamas with leisure and luxury.

Pajamas in Pop Culture

As the mid-20th century approached, pajamas became synonymous with leisure and relaxation. They began to appear in various forms in popular culture, from television shows to comic strips, further cementing their status as a casual and comfortable wardrobe staple. Pajamas were not just sleepwear; they became a symbol of downtime and self-care.

Modern Pajamas

Today, pajamas come in an array of styles, materials, and designs. From classic button-up sets to trendy onesies, the options are endless. Pajamas have also become a popular gift item, with themed and seasonal designs reflecting the wearer’s personality and interests. The market for sleepwear continues to expand, with innovations such as moisture-wicking fabrics and smart textiles catering to the evolving needs of consumers.

The history of pajamas is a fascinating journey that spans continents and centuries. From their humble beginnings to their current status as a symbol of comfort and style, it’s clear that the evolution of pajamas is far from over, with new trends and innovations likely to shape the future of this beloved sleepwear.

Our Favorite Holiday is coming! National Wear your Pajama’s to Work Day!

Nowadays wearing your pajamas to work can be an everyday occurrence for those that still have the luxury of working remotely. For those whose employers require their presence back in the office or workplace, there’s one day out of the year where you can flashback to the good old days (a couple of years ago) where you can once again work in your pajamas. This year, on Tuesday, April 19th, go back in time to when working in your most comfortable clothes is once again allowed.

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And since our favorite thing here at The Pajama Company is – well – pajamas, we’re experts at making sure you get the most of the best national holiday ever!

To begin with, consider where you work. You are no longer in your home office or at your dining room table. Coworkers and customers will be present so make your pajama-style decision based on who you will be with and what’s acceptable. If your workplace leans to the laid-back side, you can probably be a little more casual with your choice. Otherwise think conservative.You should also think about the weather. After all, in many parts of the country it can still be pretty cold in mid-April so dress accordingly.

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A fun way to make sure that you stay warm on a cooler day is to use an accessory like a bathrobe as a coat as opposed to your normal jacket. We do suggest wearing regular shoes from home to work and or course, sneakers are a great look with pj’s. If  you’re going all-in bring your slippers along to change into when you get there. Wear Your Pajamas To Work Day is especially fun for teachers and students!

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Another thing to consider is that you may end up realizing you have to make a stop or two before or after work, and wearing your pajamas to these locations may not be acceptable. Bring a change of clothes just in case. We never know what might pop up over the course of the day and having them with you could be a real time-saver.

So what about hair and make-up? Well, if you are comfortable with people seeing you as they would if they came over to your house, then by all means, tone it down for the day. Maybe just spruce up a little bit as opposed to the bedhead you might have donned when you worked from home and simply crawled out of bed to your computer with your morning cup of coffee.

Here at The Pajama Company, we have always promoted that we often do our best work in pajamas. We imagine that many who worked at home during the pandemic would agree and perhaps find going back to the office distracting. People working in creative fields often work best in solitude and comfort. We also embrace the individuality of your perfect pajama style. Perhaps it’s a flannel pant with a cashmere sweater, perhaps it’s a lounge pant with a great sweatshirt or a classic pajama set with a print that you love.

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Lastly, make a fun day of it. You don’t want to be the only one walking around in your plaid flannels while the rest of the company is wearing their daily street clothes, so be sure to let everyone know ahead of time that you will be embracing Wear Your Pajamas to Work Day!

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That’s it! All you need now is the perfect pair of PJs and you’re ready to celebrate the happiest day of the year!

 

Embrace the holiday spirit with a family pajama day

The spirit of Christmas is much more than presents and shopping. This is the time of year where we celebrate love and we spend time with the people that mean the most to us.

There’s nothing more important than family and setting aside special time to be with one another is one of the best ways to build your family bond. One way you can all be together is by having a family pajama day at home doing all the things that you love. We’ve got some ideas for things that you and your family can add to your favorite holiday activities to get into the spirit and celebrate Christmas together.

Breakfast

Eat breakfast all day. What goes better with pajamas than breakfast? Make the whole day about eating breakfast foods because there’s nothing wrong with having omelets for lunch or French toast for dinner. Let the whole family participate in the cooking so you’re all spending quality time together prepping and eating your delicious creations.

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Pick out new pajamas for the holidays. Hop online and browse new pajamas that you all want to wear for opening presents on Christmas morning. Individual choices based on taste are great but think matching family pajamas too! They are always a big hit, and your family will have outfits for a perfect photo.

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Have a fashion show. If you have lots of sets of pajamas why not swap them out over the course of the day. Each time you change, do a little runway show modeling your new look. Accessorize with festive socks, robes, and blankets too!

Cookies

Decorate holiday cookies. You can bake the cookies ahead of time, and then set up a decorating station with a variety of colored icings, sprinkles, toppings, and more. Consider baking and decorating more than your family will eat so you can give them to neighbors and friends as tasty gifts.

Fort

Build a fort. A lazy pajama day almost always involves hiding out in your own homemade fort. You can use a tent, sheets, blankets, or anything else that you have around the house to build a cool little shelter. Decorate it with twinkle lights to really give it a holiday feel.

Child Sleep

Teach the benefits of sleep. Kids should know how important sleep is to their development and sneaking in a little lesson during your pajama day is a great way to reiterate it as well as explain why they need to stay on their sleep schedule even during the holiday break.

Holiday Movies

Watch holiday movies. With so many titles to choose from you can absolutely make a full day of watching movies. Pop some corn, heat up some cocoa, and let the fun begin.

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Don’t forget to include your pets. They make pajamas for your pets! Don’t let Fido be left out of the family fun.

We hope your holiday family pajama day will be full of memories! Feel free to share your pictures on our Facebook page and tell us all about what you did on your special day!

The Ultimate Closet Cleaning Guide

We’ve been spending a lot of time at home… a lot of time. Over the last year, you’ve likely learned a lot about the home you live in and you’ve probably done a lot of organizing as well. Cleaning out cabinets, storage closets, drawers, basements, and attics is somewhat of a national past-time these days. But… have you cleaned out your main wardrobe closet yet?

If you haven’t, you’re not alone. Did you know that the clothes closet is usually the very last place people organize when cleaning or de-cluttering their homes? Why is that? It’s because our clothes are the hardest things for us to let go of, and they hold a sentimental place in our hearts. Every shirt, dress, pair of pants, sweater, and jacket can be linked to an event in your life or memory. This year, before spring hits, vow to tackle your closet head-on. Clean it out, get rid of things, and make room for new beautiful items.

We’ve got some tips to make the process as painless as possible. So make a pot of coffee, put on your comfy pajamas, and let’s go!

Donation

Who gets what? To begin with, decide what’s going to happen with the things you’re going to get rid of. You may for instance have family or friends who need or want your hand-me-downs. There will also likely be things that you can donate to your local thrift shop, shelter, or charity. Keep them separate as you put them in bags or boxes.

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Start at one side. It’s very easy to become distracted when you’re cleaning out your closet. Pick a starting point and follow the flow. Move through each section one by one. Whatever you encounter, don’t allow yourself to stray from the game plan or you’ll end up with a bigger mess than you know what to do with.

Thinking

Let go. As stated earlier, clothes have many sentimental memories and we all have those few items that we’ll keep forever, but you can’t keep everything. The rule of thumb is if you’ve gone two seasons and haven’t worn an article of clothing, chances are you will never wear it again. Get rid of it. It’s only taking up space and adding to your clutter.

Try on

Check the fit. Make sure to try things on. If you’re like many people, you’re holding on to a lot of clothes that don’t fit anymore. If something is too big, chances are you’ll never wear it again. If too small, and your plan is to lose weight so it will fit again, ask yourself if you’d actually wear it. If not, it’s much more fun to buy new clothes once you shed the weight.

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Look the clothes over. Many times people have clothes in the closet that have a tear, a button missing, or a broken zipper and the intention was to fix them. If you haven’t done it by now, you probably aren’t going to. Send them on to greener pastures.

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Think about your current style. Are you holding on to those stirrup pants from 1984 because you’re hoping they’re going to come back in style? Even if something like that were to become trendy again, chances are the look will be slightly different. Let go of the past.

Laundry

Clean everything. It’s just common courtesy to make sure that whatever you’re giving to someone or donating to charity is clean and smells fresh.

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Recycle. Most people have t-shirts, sweatshirts, or other items that are too worn to donate or give away, but you don’t want them either. Don’t just throw them away immediately. Reuse them by turning them into rags for cleaning (old sweatshirts are great for cleaning your car) and once they have served their purpose, then you can toss them.

Car Boxes

Out of sight.  Once you are done, get those bags and boxes out of your house. We cannot stress this enough. Load them in the car and drive them to their new homes. If you keep them you’ll start thinking “well maybe I should keep that one sweater because…” and they will without a doubt start working their way out of the bags and back into the closet. You must relocate them at once.

And that’s it. Now you have a closet with lots of room to be refilled with cute, fresh new outfits. Go shopping and have fun. May we suggest you start with pajamas?

Back to the Dorms: Your 2020 College Checklist

It’s time to start sending your college students back to school. Whereas in most cases students will be returning to campus to restart their education, the college experience overall will be anything but normal. Despite uncertainties about campus life, one thing is sure; everything from classes to social events will be different and your student will have to make the necessary adjustments.

Their living space will be more important than ever before and you want to make it not only comfortable but also practical. To help you plan ahead, we’ve compiled a sort of “go-to checklist” of essentials you should be sending your student back to school with so they can be successful, and adjust to a hybrid academic year.

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Workspace and Supplies: Virtual classes are almost certain to be at least a portion of student learning this year. If the dorm room or apartment your child is living in doesn’t have a desk, you’ll want to make sure that bring one along. And because they will be spending more time than usual at this workspace, a comfortable and ergo-friendly chair will be necessary too. In addition to the furniture, supplies like a desk organizer, post-it notes, pens, a desk lamp, a power strip, and extra batteries are essential to a productive works space. Don’t forget a pair of noise-canceling headphones so they can focus on their studies without interruption.

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Kitchen and Cooking: Dining halls and local eating establishments will have capacity limits and can get crowded during mealtime, so your student will likely be making their own meals much more often. Although you will want to find out what the school allows, most will permit a microwave, a small fridge, a coffee maker, and even a single burner cooktop. Believe it or not, you can do a lot with just a microwave! Make sure they have the right cooking components (utensils, microwave-safe plates/bowls, and pots and pans) to create their culinary delights with as well.

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Sleep and Study Space: As we all know, dorm rooms are far from spacious. With libraries either closed or limiting occupancy, the bed in the room may now also double as a study space. A nice bedding set including a plush mattress topper with a throw blanket will cover the comfort part, but also consider a lap desk, an overhead light, and backrest pillow to make study time most productive.

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Pajamas and Comfy clothes: Spending additional time in the dorm room means there will be more time for casual attire. Pajama sets, lounge pants, PJ pants, and short sets all fit the bill quite nicely. Make sure you have different styles for seasonal temperature changes and variety for at least 2 weeks because doing laundry is typically not a college student’s priority.

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Exercise Essentials: You won’t be able to bring a full gym to school, but a few small pieces of fitness equipment are something every college student should have this year. Because they won’t be walking to class as much and the public work-out areas will be capacity limited- or maybe even closed – students will likely not be as active as they should be. Encourage your student to stay active and provide them with tools to do so. Resistance bands, hand weights, yoga mats, and medicine balls are small and can be stored in a small space. You could also look up some online work-out videos or buy your student a subscription to a website that offers a variety of live online classes. Comfortable walking shoes should also be on the list so during downtimes, they can take a walk, get some fresh air and exercise.

Dorm Room

Room Décor: There’s no place like home never meant more than it does today. Your college student will likely be a bit more homesick this year due to less socializing and get-togethers. Make sure their living space at school is as warm and inviting as possible. A Himalayan salt lamp for example, gives off a warm glow and is also said to have stress-relieving properties and provide a better night’s sleep.  Wall décor, fun accessories, and even plants can really help make a dorm room feel like a second home. As a side note, a vacuum cleaner may be a good idea as well. 

Whether your child is just starting their college career, finishing up, or somewhere in the middle, preparing in advance for the current situation is very important to your student’s success. We wish all students the best of luck in 2020!

Mastering the Art of Working at Home

For many, the new normal, at least for the time being, means working from home. So, if you’re going to be working remotely, why not be comfortable right? Working in your pajamas is a dream come true, but it comes with a catch. It actually takes a lot of discipline to work from home and be productive at the same time. We’re here to help you ease into your new home office atmosphere so you can be comfy, get things done, with the same or better work efficiency you show at the office.

Start your day like any other workday. When you don’t have to think about your business attire and comute  to work, your mind might fall into “weekend mode” and that can be a detriment when it comes to productivity. The best way to overcome this is to go about business as usual. That means when you wake up, go through your regular routine just as you would if you had to leave the house to go to work.  Sure you can absolutely get comfortable but don’t get up and go about your day in the same clothes you slept in. Your body will be tricked into thinking it’s a relaxation day and your motivation level will go way down. If you actually change into something else, perhaps a fresh pajama style, it’s like you’re getting dressed as usual.

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 We love working in  pajama pants paired with a pullover sweatshsirt, sweater or classic shirt which is perfect for video conferencing or any virtual meeting that may suddenly pop-up.

Have a daily plan. Just as if you were in the office, you have tasks, calls, meetings, projects each and every day, so prioritize and stay focused on your calender and what you have to do. Your employer will expect the same results from you while you work remotely as they would if you were at the office or shop. Another must is to take your breaks and eat lunch as you would any other workday. The time will come where you will have to go back into work, so sticking with a normal routine will make it much easier to transition back.

Remove distractions. A designated workspace is a must.  You have to be able to work unabated and without the distractions that might be going on around you. Chances are you don’t watch TV at work, so don’t give in to the temptation at home either. We know that right now, the whole family might be staying home so this can be a challenge. You may have to set a family schedule that works in shifts so everyone has time for everything. We’ve seen some colorful family calenders with designated activites for one and all.

Keep your home office area clean. In conjunction with having an area for ‘work only,’ you need to make sure that your workspace is kept neat and tidy so you can remain organized. Don’t treat it any differently than you would your office or desk at work. It’s easy when you’re at home to let half-full beverage glasses accumulate on your desk, or to litter your workspace with non-essential clutter. Stay on top of it and clean up.

Photo by Nathan Waters on Unsplash

Don’t be tempted to stray. One of the hardest parts of working at home is doing the actual job you have to do. It’s very easy to think “I’ll just put in a load of laundry” or “I’m just going to do a little cleaning.” Don’t do it! One thing will lead to another and before you know it, the workday you were supposed to have, became an all-out domestic chore day. Focus on the task at hand and don’t stray. Wait until the end of the work day to take that long walk.

These are lessons we have learned firsthand from working at home ourselves.We have been working in pajamas since 2004!  pajama pants is great but the importance of staying organized and on task also needs to start right away.

Before this crisis, many companies had already rolled out “Own the way you work” initiatives Companies may start to realize it is better to give their employees more freedom in the way they work to achieve better results. When this is over you may realize you do your best work in pajamas, you are more creative in pajamas.

Join our facebook group Workin’ in Pajamas share your pajama style and workspace stories.

Stay healthy and stay safe everyone!  We’re all in this together.

How to Stick to New Year’s Resolutions – The Guide

As 2020 approaches, we not only usher in a new year, but also a new decade and the season where we practice the annual ritual of setting New Year’s Resolutions.

Before we get to how you are going to keep those resolutions this year, let’s review last year’s goals. Did you keep your resolutions? Did you at least make progress towards what you set out to accomplish? If your answer is no, you join 80% of Americans who also allowed their good intentions to fall by the wayside.

The inability to stick to New Year’s Resolutions is normal and should not be viewed as failure, or lack of willpower. Most of the time, not being able to follow through is because we didn’t have a plan. So how you ask “can this be the year I actually keep my New Year’s Resolutions?” We created this guide to offer up great tips and ideas that will surely help you succeed.

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Set Realistic Goals

If your mission is to lose weight, good for you! Just don’t set goals that aren’t attainable – or at least right away. Let’s say for instance you want to shed 30 pounds. Set your sight on the first 5 to start. It’s much more realistic and not that hard to do. Then, when the first 5 pounds are gone, go for the next 5 pounds and so on. You’ll see results as you go along and taking baby steps will take the pressure off, giving you a stronger feeling of accomplishment.

Make It Fun

The hardest thing about making resolutions can be that it feels more like a chore than actually making a change for the better. If you add fun into the mix it’s so much easier to get where you’re going. A perfect example is when we make the decision to eat healthier. The intention is there, but many times the spirit isn’t and we give in to temptation. One solution may be to take a healthy cooking class with like-minded resolutioners.  You get the social aspect of being with others which can be fun, plus you learn healthy, delicious recipes that will keep you on track.

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Use Technology

Whatever your resolution is, chances are there’s an app for that. Technology can help you remain accountable for everything from food intake to sleep patterns. You just have to look. Want to be more productive in your daily routine? We found an app that stops you from wasting hours on ‘time suck’ websites that keep you from the really important things you should be focusing on.

Find A Partner

Partners with similar goals are great for a couple of reasons. To begin with, if you have someone to ‘report’ to you are more likely to follow through. You also have a likeminded companion to whom you are accountable. If you planned for going to the gym with them 3 days a week, and you decide you ‘don’t feel like going’ one day, now you are disrupting someone else’s routine as well. A partner with the same goals will ensure that you have each other to lean on and you’ll also motivate one another to succeed and thrive.

Make it a Habit

Statistically, they say it takes 21 days to form a habit so if you make it past the initial 3 weeks your chances of success dramatically improve. With that in mind, why not stop thinking of your New Year’s resolutions as ‘have-to’s’ and start thinking of them as new habits – good new habits!

Don’t Let a Stumble make you Fall

Setbacks happen and are a fact of life. If we were all perfect, we wouldn’t need to set New Year’s Resolutions at all. If you slip or lapse back into bad habits, just reset and start over. There is no time limit when it comes to improving yourself.

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Most Fashionable Pajama Sets

Pajamas are a Fashion Statement, According to Experts

For some, wearing pajamas outside of the home is a regular occurance. Stepping outside to get the mail. Making a quick run to the grocery store on Saturday morning. Maybe that’s just how you roll (we’re not here to judge). But recently fashion gurus in magazines like Glamour and GQ have declared that it’s officially en vogue to wear your PJs outside of the house and, well, we couldn’t be more excited.

GQ recently noted the visible shift in men’s fashion towards bold colors and vibrant fabrics, calling them “deeply swaggy.” This awards season men donned ensembles that were designed to make a statement, much like the ladies’ gowns. Men are leaning towards comfort with breezy fabrics like silk and cuts that are more on the casual side, like nice PJs you don’t mind wearing to the grocery store.

In the last decade, women’s fashion has made a steady shift towards comfort over outdated notions of “high fashion.” Yoga pants and athletic wear have become increasingly popular choices for running errands or getting brunch with friends. These outfits are now the rule, not the exception. The fashion industry responded to this trend with more fashionable athletic wear, trendy leggings, and a wonderful jean-legging hybrid known as “jeggings.” Similarly, women’s pajamas have also stepped it up with a number of styles you could potentially wear around town. These are some of our favorites.

8 Fashionable Pajama Sets You Can Wear Anywhere

For some, wearing pajamas outside of the home is a regular occurance. Stepping outside to get the mail. Making a quick run to the grocery store on Saturday morning. Maybe that’s just how you roll (we’re not here to judge). But recently fashion gurus in magazines like Glamour and GQ have declared that it’s officially en vogue to wear your PJs outside of the house and, well, we couldn’t be more excited.”>The Cat's Pajamas - Evergreen Women's Set

1. Evergreen Voile Cotton Pajama Set by The Cat’s Pajamas

This adorable 100% cotton pajama set is perfect for the warmer months. Voile is an ultra-soft semi-sheer fabric, so you might want to pair it with a tank top if you’re considering wearing the top outdoors. The evergreen pattern evokes freshly pressed flowers in spring.

PJ Salvage Women's Dots Cotton Pajama Set

2. Lemon Dots Cotton Pajama Set by PJ Salvage

The cheery soft yellow dot pattern on this woman’s pajama set is a classic. The subtle design could easily be worn underneath a blazer, as pictured, or over a pair of jeans to run errands on the weekend.

Green Pinstripe Poplin Pajama Set Bedhead

3. Green Pinstripe Classic Poplin Pajama Set by Bedhead

Very in line with trending “pajama style” menswear, this crisp green and white stripe set is comfortable in bed or outside the house. 100% cotton means that the set is made from breathable fabric, making these pajamas a great choice for any time of the year.

Kiku Luxe Pima Cotton Pajamas The Cat's Pajamas

4. Kiku Luxe Pima Cotton Pajama Set by The Cat’s Pajamas

Luxe Pima is an ultra-soft, super light tightly woven cotton. These gorgeous pajamas as are as comfortable as they are beautiful. The gray is paired with a modern pop of color in a timeless floral design. In the summertime, you could absolutely wear the top outside with a pair of shorts or rock the pants to brunch with a crisp white shirt.

Paisley Plaid Vintage Jersey Classic Pajama Set Munki Munki

5. Paisley Plaid Vintage Jersey Classic Pajama Set by Munki Signature

In this awkward stage between winter and spring, this ‘vintage’ paisley and plaid pattern is a great combination. This soft jersey pajama set gives off a “modern cowgirl” vibe in a flattering, classic cut.

Blue Chelsea Classic Pajama Set by Bedhead

6. Blue Chelsea Classic Pajama Set by Bedhead

You don’t have to be a soccer fan to sport this classic blue ‘Chelsea’ pajama set from Bedhead. 100% English cotton is styled with a button down front and notch collar. Look put-together on your way to bed or on your way to pick a paper.

PJ Salvage Give Love Classic Pajama Set

7. Give Love Classic Pajama Set by PJ Salvage

Whether it’s a little black dress or a comfortable black pajama top, this adorable pattern from PJ Salvage is always in style. Pair this easy breezy cotton top with a pair of khaki shorts and wedges and you’ve got an effortless springtime weekend look.

Bedhead Men's 3D Stripe Cotton Pajama Set

8. Blue 3D Stripe Fine Cotton Pajama Set by Bedhead

Deep V, anyone? This stylish classic pajama cut is flirty and flattering with vertical baby blue and white stripes. Fine 100% cotton will keep you cool and comfortable in the warmer months, but are light enough to sleep in comfortably under a quilt in the winter. The shirt’s style is so trendy right now, you could even get away with wearing it on a casual Friday.

If you thought this list was fun, check out The Pajama Company Blog for more posts on family fun, movie and book lists, yummy recipes, and tips for rest and relaxation: thepajamacompany.com/blog

How to Recreate the Comforts of Home in a Dorm Room

How to Recreate the Comforts of Home in Your Dorm Room

Your first college dorm room is often the first time many you experience the discomforts of adulthood in your young life. You’re crammed into a tiny box with white washed cement walls with a complete stranger. This shared space is a far cry from the comfortable and familiar home you came from.

Many college freshmen end up sending half a carload of stuff back home, overestimating the amount of space they’ll be granted. While it’s important to pack light, and seasonally, there are a handful of items that will make your brief stay in this little cell far more enjoyable.

Unisex Back-to-College Pajama Pants

Boxercraft Red and Black Plaid Flannel Pajama Pant

10 Tips to Make Your College Dorm Feel Like Home

1. Maximize Closet Space

One thing you have at home that you definitely will not have in college is space. Going home for Thanksgiving? Bring your summer wear and forgo packing every little layer you own. When you head home for Turkey Day, plan to check your bag and swap your light clothing for sweaters, jackets, and scarves. Another simple, inexpensive closet solution are vertical hangers — small hanging strips of hooks that allow to hang up to 8 articles of clothing vertically, utilizing all your closet space.

2. Soft Lighting

Rather than make use of the harsh, fluorescent overhead ceiling lights, it’s worth it to make a little room for a nice desk lamp with a “warm” bulb — one that diffuses a warm yellow glow instead of a harsh, bright white glare.

Fuzzy Friends 'Unicorn' Slippers from Aroma Home

Fuzzy Friends ‘Unicorn’ Slippers from Aroma Home

3. Slippers or Slipper Socks

What’s that weird stain on the carpet? Why is the linoleum floor perpetually sandy no matter how much you Swiffer? No need to care if your feet never touch the floor. Even if you weren’t into slippers at home, now is the time. College dorm rooms are notoriously disgusting, collecting decades of grunge that no amount of elbow grease will lift. A comfortable pair of slippers or a few pairs of slipper socks will go a long way.

4. Mattress Pad

No matter what you decide to bring, definitely opt for a high-quality mattress pad — one that will last you the full four years. The mattress you will sleep on is absolutely older than you. Serta makes extra fancy mattress pads that will provide you with a layer of its signature memory foam for a plush sleeping experience. A good night’s sleep is critical to performing at your peak, so don’t pass on this advice!

5. Oversized Coffee Mug

Think about items that could serve multiple purposes. A bowl-like coffee cup will get a lot of use over four years, for way more than coffee. It could also be a ramen bowl, a cereal bowl, hot chocolate mug, a Chex Mix holder, or heck eat a slice of pizza out of it — whatever. One of those and a spoon, fork, and knife are all you’ll need in a limited space.

'Malibu Plaid' Unisex Flannel Pajama Pants from Boxercraft

‘Malibu Plaid’ Unisex Flannel Pajama Pants from Boxercraft

6. Pajama Pants

Pajama pants are not just for sleeping! Keep in mind that you’ll likely be rolling out of bed and sprinting to class in these, so you’ll want to have pajama pants with some style. Check out our back-to-college style guide for inspiration.

7. Induction Cooktop

Many college campuses have banned hot plates, so if you’re craving a hot meal — especially during cold winter months — and the cafeteria isn’t an option, you’re out of luck. Induction cooktops don’t actually get hot. They heat the cookware on top of the cooktop. Now you can enjoy a bowl of ramen without burning the dorm down.

8. Tapestry

Posters are the classic way to cover those unsightly white concrete walls. For a softer homey look opt for a tapestry instead. They come in so many colors and styles that guys and girls with varying tastes can find something that suits them. Tapestries are large expanses of patterned fabric that will immediately soften the look of your dorm room cell, and diffuse that harsh fluorescent lighting.

9. Room Dividing Curtain

Thanks to Amazon, you can easily find 1000 dorm room privacy solutions, including an awkward but efficient twin-sized over-bed tent to zip yourself into. A great solution if you or your parents are handy, is a neutral-colored room-dividing curtain. They come with a heavy-duty tension rod (like a shower rod on steroids) and a heavy fabric that will provide floor-to-ceiling privacy as long as you can hang it between two walls. There are also hospital style room dividers that involve screwing a track into the ceiling. You will want to get approval from both your roommate and your RA before implementing.

'Fluffy Black Sheep' Fleece Robe by Munki Munki

‘Fluffy Black Sheep’ Fleece Robe by Munki Munki

10. Plush Bathrobe

You have no control over the fact that you have to share three grimey shower stalls with 40 other college freshman, but you can control how you feel while you’re walking there! Invest in a plush bathrobe that makes you feel warm, cozy, and comfortable. And shower sandals. Definitely don’t forget the shower sandals…

Embrace every pajama-filled, pizza-laden, coffee-saturated, sleep-deprived moment of your college experience and good luck to the class of 2022! For the latest back-to-college tips, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Just Pajama Pants for Back-to-College

Back to College with These Dorm-Ready Pajama Looks

8 Classic Pajama Looks for Anywhere on Campus

Long after you graduate from college, you will feel nostalgic excitement when you spot a soon-to-be college freshman roaming the aisles of a department store, cart packed full of storage bins, towels, and twin sheets. When you leave the comforts of home, your dorm room becomes a cave of comfort.

After a few months, the dorm itself becomes more like home: packed with friends and familiar faces, sharing takeout in the lounge, watching a favorite movie with a roommate, late night study sessions. Students develop different routines and schedules and the dorm becomes a buzzing hub of activity, just as a house is for families.

A person’s idea of home revolves around one key element: comfort. One of the classic comforts of home is your ability to wear pajamas anywhere you go. Check out our PJ “Look Book” below for ideas on how to stay cozy, calm, and comfortable anywhere on campus.

The Back-to-College Pajama Look Book

Women's Pajama Pants for Back-to-College

Boxercraft Black Stripe Lux Jogger

1. The “I’m Running Late for Class” Look. The line for the shower was six people deep and you finally got your turn — there was even hot water this time! Now you’re sprinting back to your dorm room in your bathrobe pick out a stylish outfit and do your hair with the 10 minutes you have left to get to class… or pull on the pajamas that are already on your bed, throw on a hoodie, and head out the door? No brainer.

Women's Onesie for Back-to-College

Big Feet Pajamas Adult Navy Plush Hooded One Piece Footy

2. The “It’s Too Cold for Jeans” Look. It’s a winter wonderland! And by winter wonderland we mean sleet and freezing rain sloshing around in a frosty snow globe. Your class is across campus and life is good underneath your fluffy, warm down comforter. The thought of pulling on a pair of cold, stiff jeans isn’t the motivation you need to leave your cocoon. Taking a hot shower and zipping yourself into a pair of flannel one-piece footie PJs that feel more like a sleeping bag than actual clothes? That’ll do the trick.

Unisex Back-to-College Pajama Pants

Boxercraft Red and Black Plaid Flannel Pajama Pant

3. The “But It’s Raining” Look. Wet, cold, foggy: gross. You’re already going to have to navigate puddles and maneuver an umbrella when it’s raining sideways. Throw a jacket over these cozy flannel pants, slip on some dry rain boots, and you’re ready to swim to Organic Chemistry.

Dorm Life College Women's Boxers

Boxercraft Fushia Dot Flannel Bitty Boxer

4. The “We Don’t Have A/C in Our Dorm and It’s 96 Degrees Outside” Look. If you’re sharing a hot tin can with 300 other co-ed sardines it can get a little stale and stuffy by springtime. After you’ve spent the night sweating next to your desk fan, it might be time to cool off in some breezy boxers in the fresh morning air.

Comfy Slippers for Dorm Life, Back to College

Fuzzy Friends “Tiger” Slippers from Aroma Home

5. Finals Footwear. What day is it? Is it still nighttime? Where are the coffee filters? All questions you find yourself asking during dreaded finals week. This is not the week for real clothes. Or showering. Or sleeping. Or socializing. No finals week zombie walk is complete without a pair of comforting, fuzzy slippers. Slip these on, grab a slice of cold pizza, and knock out that test.

Plush Women's Robe for Back-to-College

PJ Salvage “Stars” Women’s Plush Robe in Aqua

6. The “That Party Was Epic But I Need 10 More Hours of Sleep” Look. The party is over and you’re feeling less than peppy in the AM. You don’t want to leave bed, but the cafeteria stops serving bacon at 11. Compromise: a bathrobe is essentially a comforter you can wear. Win, win.

Back-to-College Extra Wide Leg Pajama Pants

Boxercraft Women’s Navy Stripe Margo Loungepant

7. The “We Can’t Afford to Go Out Tonight” Look. When your budget looks like it’s about to be blown, it’s time to rally the troops for a binge-worthy Netflix marathon. Order a pizza and get comfortable in a pair of super soft, extra wide-leg pajama pants. It’ll feel like you’re watching TV in bed, even though you’re surrounded by ten of your closest, brokest friends.

Unisex Sushi Pajama Pants for Back to College

The Cat’s Pajamas Women’s “Sushi” Cotton Pajama Pant in White

8. The “It’s Been a Rough Week” Look. Pajamas, above all, are a security blanket. Whether it’s a breakup, roommate drama, or stress from balancing school and life with your new internship, sometimes we just need to hibernate on the weekend. Make yourself a cup of hot chocolate (or noodles), turn on a Law and Order marathon, and shut off your phone. Put on a pair of PJs in the most fun, outrageous pattern you can find. You’ll be feeling like yourself again by Monday.

Embrace every pajama-filled, pizza-laden, coffee-saturated, sleep-deprived moment of your college experience — and good luck to the class of 2021! For the latest in dorm fashion, visit us at dorm ready.