Style, Jewelry & Accessories

Pajamas

8 kinds worth knowing, 10 picks, and what to check before you buy.

Representative photo-style image of pajamas — generated, not a specific product
Representative image, generated

Pajamas are one of the few gifts that get used the same night they're opened. Partners, moms and grandparents are the usual people on the receiving end, and the sets that get worn most are the ones that feel good after a dozen washes, not just in the box. Think about how the person actually spends their evenings. Some want a loungewear set they can wear to answer the door or have a lazy Sunday in. Others run cold and would pick flannel pajamas every time. Size is the biggest risk, so a relaxed fit and an easy exchange matter more than a fancy pattern.

Kind 1 of 8

Loungewear sets for staying in

A loungewear set is a matching top and bottom made to wear around the house, not only to bed. Think soft knit joggers with a crewneck or a long-sleeve tee. They suit someone who works from home, likes slow weekends or changes out of day clothes as soon as they walk in. Before buying, check the fabric weight, since thin knits can pill fast. Look for a waistband that won't dig in and cuffs that keep their shape. Neutral colours get worn more often than loud prints.

  • Representative photo-style image of versatile loungewear pajama set — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Versatile loungewear pajama set

    Perfect for relaxing at home or casual sleep, this set offers comfort and style for downtime activities.

Kind 2 of 8

Everyday cotton pajamas

Cotton pajamas are the reliable choice. They're easy to wash, they get softer over time and they work in most seasons. A button-front shirt with drawstring pants is the classic version, while knit cotton feels stretchier and more casual. They suit almost anyone, including people who find synthetics too warm. Check whether the fabric is woven or knit, since woven cotton feels crisper and knit feels more like a T-shirt. Also look at the care label, because some cotton shrinks in a hot dryer.

  • Representative photo-style image of classic cotton pajama set — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Classic cotton pajama set

    This comfortable two-piece set offers breathable relaxation for anyone seeking everyday sleepwear.

Kind 3 of 8

Silk pajamas for a special gift

Silk pajamas feel smooth and light and look polished, which makes them a good anniversary or milestone gift for a wife, girlfriend or partner. Real silk needs gentle care, often a delicate cycle or hand washing, so think about whether the person will actually put up with that. Satin made from polyester looks similar and is easier to wash but feels less airy. Check the fabric content on the label, the length of the pant leg and whether the fit is relaxed enough to sleep in.

  • Representative photo-style image of silk pajamas — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $50–$100

    Silk pajamas

    A sophisticated gift for those who appreciate smooth textures and elegant sleepwear for a refined bedtime experience.

Kind 4 of 8

Pajamas he'll actually wear

Many men sleep in old T-shirts and gym shorts, so the pajamas that work best feel just as easy. Soft knit pants, a plain long-sleeve top or a simple woven set in a dark colour usually get more use than anything bold. They make a good gift for a husband, dad or brother who never buys sleepwear for himself. Check the inseam length and the rise, and look for a real fly or pockets, which a lot of men care about more than you'd expect.

Kind 5 of 8

Flannel and thermal sets for cold nights

Flannel is brushed cotton with a fuzzy surface that feels warm right away, which is why it shows up so often under the tree. Thermal sets use a waffle or ribbed knit that holds heat without much bulk. Both suit anyone who keeps the house cool, lives somewhere with long winters or spends mornings at the cottage. Check the fabric weight and whether the set has been pre-shrunk. Flannel can also run warm for people who overheat at night.

  • Representative photo-style image of warm flannel pajama set — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Warm flannel pajama set

    Ideal for cold nights, this cozy set provides exceptional warmth and a soft feel for ultimate comfort.

  • Representative photo-style image of insulating thermal pajama set — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Insulating thermal pajama set

    Provides an extra layer of warmth for very cold environments, ensuring a snug and comfortable night's sleep.

Kind 6 of 8

Pajama shorts for warm sleepers

Pajama shorts, usually paired with a tee or camisole, are the pick for someone who runs hot, sleeps in a warm apartment or wants something for summer trips. They pack small and are easy to wear year-round under a heavy duvet. Check the inseam, since very short styles suit some people more than others. Look for a soft, stretchy waistband and lightweight fabric like cotton jersey or a light woven.

  • Representative photo-style image of pajama shorts — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Pajama shorts

    This cool and comfortable set is perfect for warmer sleepers or summer nights, offering freedom of movement.

Kind 7 of 8

Onesies for fun and cozy nights

A onesie is a one-piece zip-up or button-up, sometimes with feet or a hood. It's a playful gift for a partner who loves Christmas morning photos, a teen or a family doing matching outfits. They're warm and silly, and that's the whole point. Before buying, check the torso length, because onesies that are too short are uncomfortable. See how easy the zipper is to use, and whether footed styles come in the right shoe size range.

  • Representative photo-style image of cozy footed pajama onesie — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Cozy footed pajama onesie

    A fun and warm full-body option, this one-piece garment provides head-to-toe comfort for playful individuals.

Kind 8 of 8

Maternity pajamas that keep up

Maternity pajamas have a stretchy or adjustable waist that sits under or over the bump, and many have tops that open for nursing. They make a thoughtful gift for an expectant partner, daughter or friend, especially one who'll be spending a lot of time at home in the months ahead. Check that the top works for nursing if that's planned, and choose soft, stretchy fabric that can be washed often. Buy the size she wears normally, as most maternity sizing is based on that.

  • Representative photo-style image of maternity pajamas — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Maternity pajamas

    Designed for expectant or new mothers, this set offers comfort and convenience during pregnancy and postpartum.

How to choose pajamas as a gift

  • If you're between sizes, go up one. Pajamas that are a bit loose get worn, and tight ones get put away.
  • Read the fabric label. Cotton, flannel, silk and polyester satin each feel and wash very differently.
  • Think about whether the person runs hot or cold at night before choosing between shorts and flannel.
  • Choose simple patterns or solid colours unless you know they love a festive print.
  • Pair a set with a matching robe or warm socks if you want the gift to feel more complete.

Usually safe to skip

  • Novelty prints with jokes or slogans tend to get worn once for a photo and then forgotten in a drawer.
  • Stiff, scratchy fabrics or sets with lots of lace and trim look nice in the box but aren't comfortable to sleep in.
  • Silk that needs hand washing, given to someone who only uses the regular cycle, usually ends up unworn.

Questions people ask about pajamas

What size pajamas should I buy as a gift?
Buy the size they wear in regular casual clothes. If you're unsure, go one size up, since pajamas are meant to fit loosely. Check whether the brand runs small, and keep the gift receipt handy for an easy exchange.
Are silk or cotton pajamas a better gift?
Silk feels special and suits an anniversary or romantic gift, but it needs gentle washing. Cotton is easier to care for and softens with use. If the person hates fussy laundry, cotton usually gets worn more.
What pajamas are best for someone who is always cold?
Flannel or thermal sets with long sleeves and full-length pants are the warmest everyday choices. A footed onesie also keeps feet warm. Add a robe if they like padding around the house on winter mornings.

Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.

Everything else

All pajamas picks

Show:AllSpecific productsGift ideasBudget:AnyUnder $15$15–$25$25–$50$50–$100Over $100

Showing 110 of 10

More in Style, Jewelry & Accessories