Sleepwear

Pajamas: The Perfect Gift

Pajamas and loungewear make perfect gifts for just about anyone. They serve double duty as most people wear their sleepwear not just to bed, but curled up in front of the fireplace in the evenings and perhaps more than a few Saturday mornings. Having well-fitted, comfortable nightclothes is a luxury everyone deserves. From birthdays to Christmas to anniversaries, sleep and loungewear make great gifts for everyone.

Women's Sleepwear

Women's sleepwear boasts the most variety. Dozens of designs and material types are available, and the type of pj's women buy are influenced by many factors. Personal style, of course, plays a large part, as does climate. Cold weather definitely calls for pulling out the flannel pajamas!

Comfort is key for all ages. Some of what is categorized as women's nightwear, however, is intended more for snuggling up with your sweetheart than perhaps really sleeping in, so it's key for women to designate what the most important features are in nightwear for them personally. Looking for styles that enhance your figure? A wide variety of figure-flattering slip dresses might fit the bill. Frequently sweat at night? Short sleeves and cotton may be what you're looking for.

The following are widely available types of sleepwear for women:

• Camisole or tank and short sets
• Short-sleeved shirt and short sets
• Capri and short-sleeve sets
• Long-sleeved shirt and long pant sets
• Short nightgowns
• Long nightgowns
• Nightshirts
• Chemises (short, typically delicate nightgowns)
• Caftans

Men's Pajamas

Men's pajamas and loungewear also offer plenty of options for style and comfort. Sleep styles for men are also dependent on their personal tastes. Some like silk pajama sets, while others sleep best in boxer shorts and a simple cotton t-shirt. Sleep shorts, thermal shirts and pants, pajama pants, and men's nightshirts are other options.

Children's Nightclothes

One of the biggest decisions in children's pajamas is whether or not to get flame-retardant ones. While most of what is designated as children's sleepwear is made with fabrics that have been treated to retard flames in case of fire, some parents make other alternatives for a variety or reasons. Many children's play clothes are made of durable, comfortable materials that can easily serve as nightclothes. While debates ensue over whether or not flame retardant (usually of synthetic fabric) pajamas are necessary, safety experts do advise that clothing children wear to bed be snug fitting to reduce the possibility of catching fire.

Children's pajamas come in wide range of colors and styles. Character themed pj's, whether classic Sesame Street or the newest cartoon craze, are always popular. Several pairs of pajamas for children (more for infants and young babies) are recommended for their wardrobe. Short and t-shirt or long pant and shirt sets are great for kids. For infants, sleep sacks and one-piece sleepers keep baby warm and make changing clothes and diapers easier on Mom or Dad as well.

Robes

Although most people don't technically sleep in robes, these are still classified as part of the sleepwear department. Besides being creature comforts, robes are easy to pull on and off for quick cover ups, not to mention essential for after showering. Longer terry-cloth robes are most popular, but kimono, wrap-style, and short duster robes are close behind.

Slippers

Slippers are another item of night clothing most people don't be necessarily wear to bed, but a necessity unless you're looking for ice-cold toesicles. Slipper styles include:

• Slipper socks (available with bottom grippers)
• Booties
• Slip-ons
• Moccasins
• Open-back or scuff slippers
• Flip-Flop and thong-style slippers

In addition, sheepskin slippers, high-heeled slippers, and hard-soled slippers made for indoor/outdoor use are widely available.

Quality sleepwear is available from a wide variety of retailers, from mass merchandisers like Wal-mart and department stores like JC Penny's to internet retailers specializing in childrenswear or slippers.