Tag Archives: pj’s

How to Make Your Home Cozy

10 Tips to Make Your Home Cozy for Fall

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Crisp, crunchy leaves, vibrant fall colors, and cool refreshing air. This is the time of year that we transition from spending most of our time outdoors to spending most of our time snug in our homes, readying ourselves for a winter hibernation of sorts.

As the days get shorter and daylight during the workweek becomes scarce, we’re often leaving our home when it’s still dark in the morning and returning home to a dark home at night. This can leave our home feeling “cold” and can sometimes make us feel a little depressed. Make your home feel warm, comfortable, and welcoming during the fall and winter months with these simple tips.

 

cute matching family pajamas fall

‘Don’t Moose With Me’ matching family pajamas by Lazy One.

How to Make Your Home Feel Cozy

1. Leave slippers by the door.

Slippers make you feel instantly warm and cozy the second you slip them on in the morning. Why not keep a pair by the door? That way you can kick off your uncomfortable work-approved footwear and slide into instant comfort.

2. Use soft lighting.

The right lighting can make all the difference! If you have a lot of intense, high-wattage bulbs that emit a severe bright light, consider replacing them with lower-wattage warm-toned lights when they burn out. The difference will make your home feel more like a warm, cozy den and less like an office space.

3. Don’t underestimate the power of throw pillows.

Layering warm, soft fabrics in the form of a few strategically placed throw pillows is a great way to ‘cozy up’ your home. The plush pillows invite you to sit down, put your feet up, and relax. Throw pillows are a simple, affordable way to soften any space and make your house feel like a home.

4. Upgrade your towel to a bathrobe.

There’s no rule that says you can’t walk around your house in a damp towel after you get out of the shower… but why not make every moment at home as comfortable as it can be? After leaving the steamy comfort of a hot shower, a plush bathrobe will keep the chilly fall air at bay. The right bathrobe can make any home feel like cozy and spalike.

5. Curl up by the fire (sort of).

Since most of us don’t have a fireplace, make use of candles to create an intimate cozy atmosphere in the room you’re in. If you are searching for a safer alternative, you can also use electric candles. Electric candles and tea lights are a great choice for people with kids and pets — or those of us who are just a bit forgetful!

6. Keep a throw blanket at arm’s reach.

Another tip for “instant cozy” is to keep a throw blanket at arm’s reach. Whether you’re zoning out in front of the TV after a long day of work or reading a book in bed, a soft throw blanket wrapped around your shoulders or draped over your legs will make you feel warm and snug at home.

Ski Themed Women's Pajama Set

‘Apres Ski’ pajama set by PJ Salvage.

7. Wear the right loungewear.

Changing from your clothes into a pair of clean, comfortable pajamas is a small ritual that says “I’m done for today.” Being comfortable at home isn’t just about how your home looks, it’s how you feel when you’re spending time there. If we want to feel comfortable and also put together, we opt for pajama sets. If we want to just let loose, flannel pajama pants and a T-shirt will do the trick. True comfort is about being comfortable in your skin in your space.

8. The smell of freshly baked cookies.

Scented oil and aromatherapy companies have captured the scents of everything in the natural world in addition to some of our favorite, comforting smells from childhood. Far safer than candles, oil diffusers can be used to create that homey feeling with the power of smell. Even if you don’t bake, you can diffuse vanilla scented oil to make your house smell like cookies just came fresh from the oven. Instant warmth.

9. Bring fall colors indoors.

Bring the fall colors you love indoors with seasonal plants like mums, cut flowers, or arrangements with branches of berries or pussy willows. Flowers and plants are a simple way to bring a natural pop of color to any room. As an added bonus, being in or around nature has the same effect on people as meditation and this one of the reasons why houseplants are so hot right now.

10. Stock up on tea and books.

Tea, good coffee, hot chocolate — prep your pantry with ingredients for some great fall drinks that you can enjoy as the season transitions from cool to cold. Keep a pile of your fall reads near your favorite reading spot, like the couch, a cozy chair, or your nightstand. Having these two fall must-haves at the ready will encourage you to get comfortable and hibernate in PJs this season.

We hope you find these tips helpful! For more ideas on how to stay comfy and cozy this season, visit The Pajama Company at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

cute winter pajamas 2018

 

Halloween costume ideas with pajamas

10 Best Halloween Costumes Made From Pajamas

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How is it already the end of October?! If you’re picking out a Halloween costume by fruitlessly searching for whatever is left in your size, or choosing your kid’s costumes according to whatever is still available with Amazon Prime’s 2-day shipping — you’re not alone!

Even though drugstores started rolling out plastic pumpkins and 20 pound bags of mini candy bars in August (not an exaggeration), those adults and parents who are just slightly less organized still manage to turn the event into a stressful scramble year after year. We’re offering up a solution to this madness: wear pajamas instead.

Why Pajamas Make the Best Last-Minute Halloween Costume

An overwhelming number of Halloween costumes for both adults and children these days are essentially overpriced, cheaply made onesies. Onesies themselves are supposed to be warm winter sleepwear and can be easily zipped over other warmer clothes for a great costume solution. So why not just use the real deal instead? Winter pajamas make great Halloween costumes because they’re semi-homemade, warm, and comfortable. Here are some fun ideas for pajama-inspired Halloween costumes for all ages.

Pajama Halloween Costumes

Easy Pajama-Inspired Halloween Costumes

1. The Lumberjack. Combine your warmest flannel pajamas with a hat, puffer vest, big boots, and a toy axe or faux beard and you’re done! Wear the plaid pajama top and bottoms, or just the top and your most comfortable pair of jeans. 

2. The Big Baby. Want to spend the night in a onesie? Pull on footed pajamas (they come in adult sizes!) and carry a teddy bear with a pacifier clipped to your pajamas. Easy and oh-so comfortable!

holly golightly halloween costume

Nothing says “do not disturb” quite like Holly Golightly’s stylish sleep mask.

3. Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Super simple and loaded with sass, adults can wear stylish and flattering pajamas, don a sleep mask, and some ritzy jewelry to play film’s most popular kept woman. Say what you will about Holly, but the woman knew how to lounge. 

4. A Ghost. Halloween and party supply stores may be out of costumes in your size, but they probably have a simple face paint kit or two left. Check out this basic ghost face-paint tutorial and put on a flowing nightgown or cozy white robe for an easy Halloween costume. If it’s chilly, you can wear pants or leggings under your sleepwear! 

5. The Hillbilly. Now is a great time to check out our super fun vintage-inspired flapjack pajamas, in both child and adult sizes. Made of incredibly soft, warm flannel, you’ll be comfortable on even the chilliest fall night. Pair flapjacks with a coonskin cap, boots, and a corncob pipe for a quick “hillbilly” costume.

where the wild things are costume

You have to admit, Max does look mighty comfortable in his pajamas during his adventure.

 

6. Max from Where The Wild Things Are. Yet another simple onesie costume courtesy of everyone’s favorite children’s book. Don a white onesie, purchase an inexpensive gold foil party crown from any part supply store, and find a pin-on animal tale like this one from Amazon.

7. The College Student. Perfect for adults with college-aged kids, dress up as a your son or daughter for halloween in soft, warm flannel pajama pants and and oversized hoodie from their alma matter. Bonus points if you use this pizza tote or takeout purse.

8. Tom Cruise in Risky Business. A super fun costume for both men and women. Slip into a nightshirt, white socks, and sunglasses. Warm up the look on a chilly fall night with nude-colored leggings.

Lost Boys Peter Pan Halloween

The ‘Lost Boys’ would make an adorable and comfortable family Halloween costume.

9. The Lost Boys. If you’d like to get into the Halloween spirit and reach from an obscure, but playful theme, look no further than Peter Pan’s ‘Lost Boys.’ This idea is perfect for a group or family costume. In the Disney original, the kids in the dreamlike world of Never Never Land wore playful animal-themed footie pajamas. Grab a friend with larger Halloween ambitions to be Peter Pan or Wendy.

10. “Sleeping Beauty.”  We know Sleeping Beauty as a princess locked away in a tower, waiting for Prince Charming in a full ballgown… but what if we took the phrase more literally? Wear a pajama set fit for royalty and top off the costume with a toy tiara and sash. Cheeky fun!

We hope you enjoy these fun and easy pajama-inspired Halloween costumes for the whole family! For more ideas for Halloween fun, check out The Pajama Company blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog. 

10 Bedtime Rituals to Help You Decompress

10 Bedtime Rituals to Help You Decompress

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Your work schedule, the kids’ school schedule, Halloween, Thanksgiving, holiday shopping… is anyone else beginning to feel the crunch of this busy season? It’s as if the lazy days of summer are actually a rest period so we have the energy to make it through the marathon holiday season of the fall and winter.

As we approach this busy time of year, it’s a good idea to get into the habit of self care. The more hectic our schedules get, the easier it becomes to move your health and happiness to the bottom of the list. Apart from drinking enough water and eating our veggies, our most basic health requirement is sleep. We hope these simple bedtime rituals will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Dog Pattern Flannel Pajamas

PJ Salvage ‘Think Pawsitive’ Classic Flannel Pajama Set in Antique White

Bedtime Rituals to Help You Get a Good Night’s Sleep

1. Make a to-do list.

Your to-do list can be as simple as few things you want to accomplish the next day, like clearing out your inbox, paying your phone bill, or tackling the first step of a project at work. By writing down each task, you’re actually creating an action plan for the day. This allows you to rest easy knowing that you will wake up with purpose and direction.

2. Stretch before bed.

Try a incorporating a simple yoga practice into your nighttime routine. The stretching will soothe aching joints and muscles and the breathing techniques will help you exhale all the stress you’ve accumulated throughout your day. This 7-minute bedtime yoga sequence is so simple you can do it your pajamas, no spandex required.

3. Try micro journaling.

Journaling is a healthy, reflective practice that allows you to acknowledge your successes and note areas for improvement. Micro journaling is simply writing down three things that went well that day and three things that didn’t. This practice gives your day closure, sealing it in the past. This keeps you focused on the positive and prevents you from dwelling on the negative, silencing that end-of-day chatter that keeps you up at night!

4. Take an evening stroll.

If you can slip away for twenty minutes, take a walk around your neighborhood. Studies have shown that walking, especially in green spaces like a park, can have the same stress-relieving effects as meditation. This would be a great time to think about what you’re grateful for today and what you want to accomplish tomorrow. The key to a restorative walk is to do it unplugged — no ear buds! After a hot shower, you’ll go to bed feeling rested and refreshed.

5. A cleansing soak.

Whether it’s a long leisurely bubble bath or quick a 5-minute foot soak, wash away your stress in the tub. Immersion in water is known to be very therapeutic, especially when you combine it with the relaxing effects of aromatherapy. In the evening, add lavender oil to the water to promote a deep sleep. After you towel off, wrap yourself up in a warm fluffy bathrobe to create a spa experience.

Women's Polar Bear Bathrobe

Munki Munki Women’s Fluffy ‘Polar Bear’ Fleece Robe

6. Unplug and open a book.

An hour before bed, unglue yourself from screens: television, phone, and computer. Put on your softest, comfiest pajamas and curl up in bed with a good book. The light from these screens has been shown to disrupt our sleep patterns. Not only will reading at the end of the day help you get to sleep faster, avoiding the glow of your electronics will help you stay asleep longer. Check out our fall classics reading list for ideas.

7. An evening cup of tea.

Simply the act of making a cup of tea can be a meditative practice. Waiting for the water to boil. Prepping the tea bags if you’re making loose tea. The scent of the water hitting the dried herbs. Get in the habit of making a cup of herbal tea before bed. Chamomile, jasmine, and mint are soothing herbal teas that won’t keep you up at night.

8. Adult coloring books.

Adult coloring books have been all the rage in the last few years, used mostly as a stress-relieving technique. Coloring is an easy way to be crafty and creative, no matter how much time you have at the end of the day. Coloring stimulates areas of the brain that most of us non-creatives don’t use every day, making it a soothing and helpful brain exercise that promotes creative problem solving. The perfect pre-bedtime activity.

9. Meditate for 5 minutes.

Meditating for as little as five minutes each day can reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep. There are many guided meditations available online, so you can learn breathing techniques and practice helpful, relaxing visualizations. Meditating is a great way to clear your mind before bed, especially if you find that overthinking keeps you up at night!

10. Invest in comfortable pajamas.

We know, we know… to someone with a hammer, everything looks like a nail! Believe it or not, investing in comfortable sleepwear will help you get to sleep faster. When you were a kid, pajamas weren’t just something to wear after your bath — they also acted as a signal to tell you that it was bedtime, mentally preparing you to wind down. The same logic can be applied as an adult. A ritual as simple as putting on pajamas says, “My day is finished. It’s time for me to rest.”

We hope these ideas for bedtime rituals help you get a great night’s sleep. For more sleep tips and ideas for family fun this fall season, visit The Pajama Company Blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

11 Best Mother's Day Brunch Recipes

11 Best Mother’s Day Brunch Recipes

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Throughout your childhood, how many times did mom or grandma make you breakfast? Return the favor this Mother’s Day by cooking a stellar brunch in her honor. Whipping up a fabulous meal at home allows your family to skip loud, overcrowded restaurants with long Mother’s Day waitlists. Let mom enjoy a mimosa in the comfort of her pajamas and bathrobe, reclining on a couch cushion like the queen she is.

Simple, Elegant Mother’s Day Brunch Recipes

Banana Bread Flapjacks from Country Living

Banana Bread Flapjacks from Country Living

1. Banana Bread Flapjacks from Country Living

It’s a simple pleasure: waking up to a hot cup of coffee and warm stack of flapjacks. These easy “banana bread” flapjacks from Country Living will warm your heart and your stomach. Spice up the presentation by presenting various toppings: candied nuts, fresh berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup. Get the recipe here.

Chard and Gruyere Eggs in the Hole from Good Housekeeping

Chard and Gruyere Eggs in the Hole from Good Housekeeping

2. Chard and Gruyere Eggs in the Hole from Good Housekeeping

“Eggs in the Hole” is simply a piece of bread with hole cut in the middle, that you fry on a skillet, cracking an egg over the center so the fried egg sits in the hole in the toast. This simple dish maintains the same concept but is elevated with gourmet cheese and dark leafy greens. Get the recipe from Good Housekeeping here.

Loaded Bloody Mary from Foodie Crush

Loaded Bloody Mary from Foodie Crush

3. Loaded Bloody Mary from Foodie Crush

It’s a drink and a snack! The perfect treat for a pampered mom who just spent the morning lounging in her luxurious new pajama set. Learn how to build a “loaded Bloody Mary” with this how-to from Foodie Crush for creating the perfect Bloody Mary bar. With drink accoutrements like bacon, oysters, and steak, this really is a meal in a glass. Learn how to craft the perfect loaded Bloody Mary for Mother’s Day here.

Blueberry Chamomile Dutch Baby from Half Baked Harvest

Blueberry Chamomile Dutch Baby from Half Baked Harvest

4. Blueberry Chamomile Dutch Baby from Half Baked Harvest

A Dutch Baby is essentially a pancake that you bake in a skillet… which, by the way, was the original pancake. So a Dutch Baby is a real pancake? Well whatever it is, it’s and delicious. The skillet also makes for an Instagram-worthy Mother’s Day brunch presentation, so you’ll look like a pro! Get the recipe for this lightly spiced, hot and gooey treat from Half Baked Harvest here.

Ham and Egg Grilled Cheese from Damn Delicious

Ham and Egg Grilled Cheese from Damn Delicious

5. Ham and Egg Grilled Cheese from Damn Delicious

If you haven’t checked out Chungah Rhee’s cooking blog yet, now’s your chance. Your mom deserves the best for Mother’s Day and this site is filled with tasty, easy-to-prepare recipes that you’ll make again and again. This decadent take on a ham/egg/cheese is to die for and is practically designed to enjoy in your favorite pajama pants. Fire up your waffle iron (yes) and get the recipe from from Damn Delicious here.

Summer Mimosa Floats from That’s What Che Said

Summer Mimosa Floats from That’s What Che Said

6. Summer Mimosa Floats from That’s What Che Said

This cocktail is advertised as “the perfect beverage for brunch, book club, girls weekend, or just a normal Saturday.” If that’s the case, we want to spend every Saturday with Cheryl from That’s What Che Said! Instead of pouring champagne over orange juice this Mother’s Day, pour champagne over sweet, decadent sherbet. Wow your mother this weekend and get the over-the-top recipe here.

The Silkiest Carbonara from Bon Appetit

The Silkiest Carbonara from Bon Appetit

7. The Silkiest Carbonara from Bon Appetit

Pasta for brunch? Absolutely. Carbonara has all the markings of great brunch food: bacon in the form of pancetta, eggs, and a healthy dose of butter, heavy cream, and cheese. The smell of pancetta frying in your kitchen is the best reason for your mom to grab her mimosa, get out of bed, and join you all downstairs. Get the recipe from Bon Appetit here.

Bananas Foster Baked French Toast from Taste of Home

Bananas Foster Baked French Toast from Taste of Home

8. Bananas Foster Baked French Toast from Taste of Home

The classic dessert, with all its divine caramelized banana goodness, condensed into one 13X9 recipe from Taste of Home. This recipe sounds complicated, but it’s essentially a casserole. Everything is layered like a lasagna in one pan for easy preparation and even easier cleanup. If your mother is a fan of classic desserts, this will be a surefire hit on Mother’s Day. Get the recipe here.

Corned Beef Hash with Fried Eggs from Food & Wine

Corned Beef Hash with Fried Eggs from Food & Wine

9. Corned Beef Hash with Fried Eggs from Food & Wine

If your mother isn’t a fan of frills, try this elegant twist on a diner favorite on Mother’s Day (no corned beef from a can here!). Food & Wine walks you through scratch-made corned beef hash that will taste like nothing you’ve ever had at your local dive — it will taste a million times better! Spoil mom rotten with a laid-back brunch menu that features high quality ingredients. Get the recipe from Food & Wine here.

Savory Dutch Baby from Food with Feeling

Savory Dutch Baby from Food with Feeling

10. Savory Dutch Baby from Food with Feeling

This delicious Dutch Baby is a savory twist on the classic fruity variety. You can use the suggested toppings in this recipe from Food with Feeling or improvise with fresh seasonal spring veggies. Regardless of what vegetables you use to fill it, the presentation will knock mom’s warm and fuzzy socks off on Mother’s Day. Get the recipe here.

Citrusy Champagne Sangria from Kiran + Tarun

Citrusy Champagne Sangria from Kiran + Tarun

11. Citrusy Champagne Sangria from Kiran + Tarun

Kiran + Tarun is another blog that is loaded with simple super fun recipes to try any day of the week! But for Mother’s Day we love this beautiful and refreshing Citrusy Champagne Sangria. Get the recipe here.

For more ideas for Mother’s Day fun, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog

Spring Cleaning Pro Tips

Spring Cleaning is a Breeze with These Pro Tips

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Treetops that were dusted with the reddish hue of leaf buds are now bursting with vibrant spring colors. We welcome the fresh spring air by throwing open our windows and… hey, what is that all over our windows? Can dust be simultaneously dusty and greasy? Where the heck did all this dirt come from?! Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a headache, so go ahead and throw open your windows and the cabinet under your sink. With these helpful tips, you’ll be able to tackle spring cleaning in your pajamas, without breaking a sweat.

Spring cleaning is a breeze with these pro tips!

7 Best Spring Cleaning Shortcuts

1. Rugs and Carpets. Take a minute to clean your vacuum. Yes, you read that correctly. Cleaning out the filter and brushes — which are often tangled with a mess of hair — will make it as powerful as the day you bought it. This is especially true of robotic vacuums, like the Roomba. With your machine in tip-top shape, you’ll spend less time going over the same area again and again. For an extra boost, generously sprinkle your rugs and carpets with baking soda and leave overnight. The baking soda “traps” moisture and smells. Thoroughly vacuum the baking soda the next morning.

2. Windows. For the biggest impact in the shortest amount of time, focus on the outside of the windows and don’t sweat the details. Pick up a preferred window or exterior cleaner that is approved for the outdoors. Brands like Scotts and Windex have created cleaner that will attach to your garden hose, so you can skip renting the pressure washer. Just spray and done!

3. Walls and Doors. Some people wash their walls and doors annually. We’re not those people. Spot clean high-traffic, high-touch areas with a product like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. The areas around door handles and door jams gather a layer of grime. The “Magic Eraser” lives up to its name. With little effort, you can erase this tricky layer of dirt. It also removes scuff marks from doors!

Spring Cleaning Hack for Bathrooms

Use shaving cream to shine your bathroom fixtures.

4. Oven. If your oven has a “self clean” option, use it. Plan to be out for the day while it works its magic and be sure to crack a window so the house doesn’t smell like gas. After it’s done self-cleaning simply wipe it down. “Self-cleaning” means that the oven reaches its peak temperature for a long period of time, rendering everything inside to ash. If the oven doesn’t have a self-clean option and your scared of the chemicals in harsh spray-on oven cleaner, a thick layer of baking soda and vinegar can remove most of the grime. Leave the solution on for 30 minutes and wipe the paste away with a sponge and water. Easy peasy.

5. Refrigerator. The worst part of cleaning the fridge is taking everything out and putting it back in… and the cleaning. With a little planning, you can cut a lot of time off this process. Simply clean the fridge when you know you will be low on groceries. If you’re concerned about cleaning with chemicals in an area where you store food, use baking soda and vinegar as you would to clean your oven. It will quickly remove any stains and food gunk!

6. Bathroom. Everyone’s least favorite room to clean! Instead of scheduling time to clean the room, spot clean with these handy bathroom cleaning hacks. If you’re using baking soda and vinegar to clean other rooms in the house, sprinkle both in your toilet and let it sit for 15 minutes — flush and done! While you’re shaving, you can rub shaving cream on your fixtures, rinse, and they’ll sparkle. If you’re a tea drinker, you can take the tea bag from your morning cup and wipe down your mirror for a streak-free shine.

7. Tile. The grout between tiles is one of the hardest parts of your home to clean — and the most tedious. Scrubbing apart sponges or spending hours scouring with an old toothbrush are not appealing approaches. If you have a lot of tile in your home and a drill, consider purchasing a drill brush. This is a scrub brush attachment for a drill, originally designed for auto detailing, that allows you to power through your grout cleaning! After you’re finished, use a candle made of wax that is similar to your grout color. Gently rub the candle over the grout. The light wax coating will keep your grout clean for longer!

We hope these spring cleaning tips help you spend less time cleaning and more time in your pajamas this weekend! For more tips for easy living, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Best TV Shows to Binge Watch in 2018

The Best TV Shows to Binge in Your Pajamas

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We in the Northeast have endured another blizzard, but more pajama time is A-OK with us! Snow days and quiet Friday nights are perfect for binge-watching gripping television shows in the comfort of your living room. If you tend to binge-watch your television shows, you’re not alone.

It may seem counterintuitive in this age of short, quippy social media posts and funny cat videos, but humans have a psychological urge to watch entire seasons of television from start finish — no matter how dark, twisted, and complicated the storylines. According to Netflix, three out of four viewers watch the entire first season of Breaking Bad in one sitting!

Psychologists believe that we binge-watch because we crave an escape from our busy lives. As it turns out, occasionally binge-watching television shows can help alleviate symptoms of stress. So put on your coziest pair of pajama pants, pop some popcorn, and stream one of these binge-worthy TV shows. Doctor’s orders.

Best Shows to Stream in 2018

Put on your pajama pants and get ready stream.

Top 10 TV Shows to Binge-Watch Right Now

1. The Americans

Nothing is what it seems on The Americans. To their unsuspecting suburban neighbors, Philip and Elizabeth Jennings are the most boring couple you could possibly imagine. But to anyone who gets in their way — including the FBI — these undercover Russian spies are quick, efficient, and deadly. If you like intrigue, action, ‘80s nostalgia, and brutally honest depictions of marriage, you’re going to love The Americans. Stream on Amazon.

2. Brooklyn Nine-Nine

If you like to laugh and love a little action, Brooklyn Nine-Nine is the breakout hit for you. Starring SNL funnyman Andy Samberg and acting veterans Andre Braugher and Terry Crews, the TV show follows the hijinx of the NYPD’s fictional 99th Precinct. The plot revolves around the professional and personal life of Detective Jake Peralta (Samberg), an immature but talented police officer. Hilarity ensues. Stream on Hulu.

3. Westworld

For the sci-fi fanatics, Westworld is a thriller that takes place in a technologically advanced Wild West-themed amusement park populated by android hosts. Westworld caters to high-paying guests, who may indulge in whatever they wish within the park without retribution from their hosts — including murder. The series begins as a routine update in the hosts’ programming causes unusual deviations in their behavior, concerning park staff. A few of the hosts become sentient and learn the truth about themselves and the world they are forced to live in. Stream on HBO Go.

Jane the Virgin jammies

Gina Rodriguez and Andrea Navedo in pajamas for a scene in ‘Jane the Virgin’

4. Jane the Virgin

Jane the Virgin follows twenty-something Jane Villanueva as she navigates the aftermath of an accidental artificial insemination in her very Catholic household. With plenty of family drama, comedic relief, a steamy love triangle, and crime lord, the telenovela satire packs a lot entertainment into each and every episode. Perfect if you were a fan of the old series Desperate Housewives.

5. Orphan Black

Sci-fi is clearly coming back to mainstream television with shows like Westworld and this hit, Orphan Black. The Canadian series raises questions about the moral and ethical implications of cloning. Con-artist Sarah Manning, one of several identical clones, assumes the identity of one of her fellow matches, police officer Elizabeth Childs, after witnessing her suicide. Viewers can watch the entire plot from start to finish, as all five seasons are now available for streaming. Stream on Amazon.

6. Peaky Blinders

If you enjoyed The Godfather trilogy, know that Peaky Blinders is essentially the British version. Inspired by a real-life gang that operated in Birmingham, England during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the story follows Tommy Shelby, the gang’s reluctant but passionate leader, who must take over his family business (Michael Corleone, anyone?). Each season is just six episodes, making it very easy to devour in one sitting. Stream on Netflix.

7. Friends from College

Friends from College is a “coming of age” story for a new generation. This intense all-too-real dramedy starring funnyman Keegan Michael Key will resonate with many tightly knit college groups who have tried to keep their youthful connections rolling into their 40s. Filled with anti-heroes, beautifully acted, and endlessly entertaining, each of the eight half-hour episodes can be watched in one evening. Stream on Netflix.

8. Bob’s Burgers

Is it just us, or is everything on television these days dark and twisted? Take an extended break from reality and stream every season of the funny adult animated series Bob’s Burgers. We promise that you will fall in love with at least one of the adorable cast members who feature voice talent from legend H. Jon Benjamin (Archer), Kristen Schaal (Last Man On Earth, The Daily Show) Megan Mullally (Parks and Rec, Will and Grace), Jordan Peele (Get Out, Key and Peele), SNL alum Bill Hader, and Aziz Ansari (Parks and Rec, Master of None) to name a few. The plot follows the hilarious antics that take place in and around Bob Belcher’s family business, Bob’s Burgers. Stream on Hulu.

9. Silicon Valley

A surprise hit from producer Mike Judge, best known for King of the HIll and Beavis and Butt-Head, is Silicon Valley, a witty live-action comedy starring Thomas Middleditch and Kumail Nanjiani. The story follows the day-to-day struggle of Richard Hendricks (Middleditch), a Silicon Valley engineer trying to build his own company within the quirky valley tech bubble. Stream on Hulu.

Tracee Ellis Ross Black-ish Pajamas

Golden Globe winner Tracee Ellis Ross wears a lot of cute pajama sets as her character Bo Johnson in the hit comedy series ‘Black-ish.’

10. Black-ish

Network after network is producing gloomy, depressing content but Black-ish on ABC is a much-needed standout family sitcom. Loosely based on the family life of creator Kenya Barris, the show doesn’t shy away from discussions of family, race, gender equality, or politics, but addresses these hot-button topics in a way that is timely, relatable, and approachable. The plot follows family man Andre Johnson (Anthony Anderson) as he struggles to maintain a sense of cultural identity while raising his children in a predominantly white, upper-middle-class neighborhood. Every episode is smart, sweet, and guaranteed to make you laugh until your belly hurts. Stream on Hulu.

For more ideas for how to unwind in your pajamas this season, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

12 Simple and Delicious Late Night Snacks

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The clock is creeping past ten. You’re unwinding in your pajamas, snuggled into the couch, wrapped up a cozy throw blanket… when your stomach grumbles. You know you “aren’t supposed to” eat after 8pm, but is that really a hard rule? And who made the rule? Why do you have to follow it?

As it turns out, the supposed link between weight gain and late-night eating is a myth. Our metabolism doesn’t slow down at night, converting everything we ate into fat. The same daytime rules apply at nighttime: everything in moderation. That said, we’ve compiled a collection of tasty late night snacks that you don’t have to feel guilty about.

Strawberry Smoothie

Late Night Snacks You Can Feel Good About

1. Strawberry Smoothie. Combine vanilla yogurt, milk or your preferred milk substitute, frozen strawberries and blend. Depending on how sweet the yogurt is, add honey to sweeten the shake. Using Greek yogurt will increase your protein intake — on average 15 to 20 grams per 6 ounces — and make for a more satisfying snack. Low fat yogurt is also an option for reduced calorie intake.

2. Avocado Toast. Simply make a piece of toast and slice up half of a small avocado. Smash the avocado on top of the toast with a fork. Add other toppings like nutritional yeast, green onions, sliced radishes, or baby arugula. Using multigrain or sprouted bread will increase both your fiber and protein intake.

3. Frozen Grapes. This may sound a little strange if you’ve never done it before, but trust us — frozen grapes are delicious. Pull grapes from their stems and place them in a freezer bag. Once they’re frozen you have snackable sorbet. This is a wonderful low-calorie option for those of us who like to reach for a frozen treat at night. Crackers, Turkey, Cheese

4. Whole Wheat Crackers with Cheese and Turkey. Fiber-rich woven wheat crackers are low in calories and very satisfying. Just six Triscuit crackers contain 120 calories, 3 grams of fiber, and 3 grams of protein. Top with thin slices of your favorite cheese and roast turkey. Very satisfying!

5. Quesadilla Half. Heat one 8-inch multigrain tortilla on a skillet and place grated cheese on one half. Layer with other toppings if desired (deli meats, baby spinach, green onions), top half with second layer of cheese and fold the quesadilla in half. Once one side is toasted, flip and toast the other side until the cheese is melted through. Serve with salsa and enjoy!

6. Greek Yogurt and Low-Fat Granola. As we mentioned earlier, Greek yogurt is packed with protein so a small serving will ward off hunger for a long time. Combine the yogurt with the fiber punch of granola, top with honey, and you have a sweet, creamy, and crunchy snack.

7. Ham and Provolone Roll-Ups. Cut out the carbs with these quick and easy ham and provolone roll-ups. Spread a thin layer of mustard on a slice of provolone, top with a slice of ham, and roll it up! Packed with protein and flavor, this filling snack will put an end to your hunger pangs.

Dark Chocolate is a Healthy Snack

8. Dark Chocolate. If you’re craving chocolate, the darker the better. Milk chocolate contains less of the original cocoa bean than dark chocolate and contains more milk, sugar, and cream. Savoring a little bit of quality dark chocolate will satisfy your craving and will be a relatively healthy treat.

9. Banana and Peanut Butter. Snacks don’t get much easier than this! Simply spread a little bit on peanut butter on a banana as you peel it. While peanut butter is high in protein, it’s also high-calorie and high in saturated fat, so spread accordingly.

10. DIY Popcorn. Air pop your own popcorn at home or pop with oil. Either way, it will be far better for you than the sodium and chemical-loaded stuff that comes out of the microwave. The benefit of popping it yourself is that you’re in control of the toppings — what they are and how much. Add a little parmesan cheese, garlic salt, or zesty lime seasoning. Have fun with it!

Black Bean Salad and Tortilla Chips

11. Black Bean Salad and Tortilla Chips. Keeping a batch of black bean salad in the fridge is a great way to spice up salads, rice, and other side dishes throughout the week. It’s also wonderful as a flavorful and hearty snack on a handful of tortilla chips.

12. Pita with Veggies and Hummus. Cut a small whole wheat pita in half, open up the pocket and spread the inside with hummus. Place mixed greens and sliced veggies inside for a fresh and tasty treat!

For more ideas for how to unwind in your pajamas this winter, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

 

Best Winter Reading List for Pajamas

The Ultimate Winter Reading List

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After this week’s Nor’easter on the East Coast, we feel like curling up in our flannel pajamas with a good book this weekend. A hot cup of coffee and great novel is the best way to recover after a yucky week of snow, sleet, ice, and slush. The winter months are ideal for nostalgic novels, a splash of history, dark thrillers, and deeply twisted plots. Grab your fuzzy slippers and park yourself on the couch with one of these winter favorites.

Winter Reading List

Get comfortable with pajama pants and a good book this weekend.

Top 10 Books to Read in Your Pajamas this Winter Continue reading →

This Year, Workout in Your Pajamas

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We make a lot of promises to ourselves in January that we break by March. New Year’s resolutions are a tradition of goal setting. They key to accomplishing your goals is to start small and build on small successes. If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to start working out, we have the perfect way to ease into a new routine.

Gyms are expensive and involve an additional commute. For some of us, the added cost and challenge make it easier to commit to an exercise routine. For others, those same challenges become hurdles. Before you spend on Crossfit classes, try incorporating exercise into your routine slowly to make the habit stick.

A great way to start is by working out in your pajamas. That’s right — a quick workout before or after you go to bed allows you to knock it out before you shower for work. Here are some simple exercise ideas that you can do at home, in your PJs.

10 At-Home Workouts You Can Do in Pajamas

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Pajama Dance Party Playlist

Why You Need a Pajama Dance Party

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‘Tis the season for stress. According to a recent study conducted by the Harvard Medical School Department of Neurology, 90 percent of Americans experience a heightened state of stress during the holidays. The most prevalent causes of holiday stress are, unsurprisingly, money and family. These two stress factors combined with additional responsibilities and social commitments create a hectic holiday environment.

The dramatic departure from the comfort of our daily routine raises our stress levels. Some people choose to relieve the pressure with a post-holiday vacation, massage, or spa day, but this isn’t an option for everyone. Since most people are strapped for money and time during the holidays, these are not practical solutions.

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