Pajamas are one of the few gifts that get used every single day. Get them right and you have given someone something they will reach for every night for years. Get them wrong (scratchy fabric, the wrong size, a print they would never choose) and they end up at the back of a drawer.
We have been making sleepwear in Canada for a long time, and we hear from a lot of people who were given This Is J as a gift and then came back to buy more for themselves. This guide is everything we have learned about choosing pajamas as a gift, organized by the kind of person you are shopping for. To browse everything at once, start with our women's pajamas and loungewear.
Gift ideas by who you are shopping for
For the hot sleeper
If she kicks off the covers, complains about night sweats or keeps the window open in January, she will appreciate pajamas that breathe. Our bamboo fabric is moisture-wicking and temperature regulating, which makes a real difference for anyone who sleeps warm. Look at a tank or short sleeve set, a nightie, or anything in our cool and lightweight edit.
Menopause can make night sweats much worse. If that is part of the picture, our guide to the best pajamas for menopause night sweats explains what to look for.
For the homebody
For the person who changes into pajamas the moment she gets home (and works from home in them too), a matching pajama and loungewear set is the perfect gift. Our henley harem set is a best seller for exactly this reason: it is comfortable enough to sleep in and looks put together enough to answer the door in.
For the person who has everything
A robe is a lovely, slightly indulgent gift that most people would not buy for themselves. Many of ours come with a matching headband, which makes the gift feel complete. Robes are also very forgiving on sizing, so they are one of the safest choices if you are unsure. Our guide on how to choose a women's robe covers what to look for.
For the new or expecting mum
Comfortable sleepwear is a thoughtful gift during pregnancy and after the baby arrives. Our maternity pajamas are made from the same soft, stretchy bamboo fabric as the rest of our range, and it is gentle on skin that can feel more sensitive during pregnancy.
For the festive one
If she loves Christmas, give her a set she can wear on Christmas morning and all winter long. Our plaid and tartan pajamas look festive without being novelty, so they stay in rotation well past December. Read more in our Christmas pajamas guide.
For the whole family
Matching pajamas for the family make a gift that doubles as a holiday tradition (and a very good photo). We make sleepwear for women, men and kids, and our family matching shop groups the prints that match.
For the classic nightgown lover
Some people simply prefer a nightgown to a two-piece set. Our nighties come in tank, short sleeve, long sleeve and oversized tee styles. Our guide to women's nightgowns explains the differences.
Small gifts and stocking stuffers
Not every gift needs to be a full set. Our accessories, including headbands, sleep masks and toques, make thoughtful stocking stuffers or an add-on to a bigger gift. A single piece from our mix and match separates, like a top or a pair of pajama pants, is another good option if you know what she likes.
How to get the size right when buying pajamas as a gift
Sizing is the most common worry when buying pajamas for someone else. A few ways to get it right:
- Check a favourite piece. Look at the size label on a pair of pajamas or a t-shirt she already loves, then compare it with our women's size guide.
- Use the model photos. Every model photo lists the model's height, her usual size and the size she is wearing, so you can see how a piece fits on a real person.
- If in doubt, size for comfort. Most people prefer their pajamas a little relaxed rather than snug.
- Choose a forgiving style. Robes, nighties and caftans are much more forgiving on sizing than fitted sets.
- Check the returns policy. Read our return policy before you buy so you know the options if something does not fit.
When you are not sure: a gift card
If you really do not know her size or style, a This Is J gift card lets her choose for herself. It is the gift-giving equivalent of a safe bet, and she gets the fun of picking her own print.
Order early for the holidays
Delivery times within Canada vary by province, and carriers get busier the closer we get to the holidays. Check our shipping information for current delivery estimates, and give yourself at least two weeks to be safe. If you are a Comfort Club member, you also earn rewards on every gift you buy.
Frequently asked questions
Are pajamas a good gift for women?
Yes, when they are good pajamas. A soft, breathable set that fits well gets worn every night, which is more than you can say for most gifts. Bamboo is a popular choice because almost everyone notices how soft it is straight away.
What are the best pajamas to give as a gift in Canada?
For most people, a matching pajama set in a breathable fabric is the best all-round gift. For a safer bet on sizing, choose a robe or a nightie. All our sleepwear is made in Canada, which many people value in a gift.
What if the pajamas do not fit?
Check our return policy for the current options. Using the size guide and the model measurements on each product page will help you choose the right size first time.
Do you sell men's pajamas too?
Yes. Our Harris men's loungewear range is made from the same soft bamboo fabric and is a popular gift for him.
Ready to shop? Browse women's pajamas and loungewear, or go straight to our best sellers.
