There is a reason the nightgown has never gone out of style. No waistband, nothing riding up, nothing to match. You just put it on and go to sleep. If you have only ever worn two-piece pajamas, a good nightgown can be a revelation, especially if you sleep warm or move around a lot at night.
This guide covers the main nightgown styles, how to choose the right length and fabric, and how a nightgown compares with a pajama set. If you would rather browse, take a look at our women's nightgowns.
Nightgown or pajama set: which is better?
Neither is better for everyone, but they suit different sleepers.
A nightgown is a great choice if you:
- Sleep warm and want as much air flow as possible.
- Dislike waistbands digging in or pant legs twisting while you sleep.
- Are pregnant, recovering from surgery or simply want nothing tight around your middle.
- Like getting dressed for bed in one step.
A pajama set may suit you better if you:
- Get cold legs at night, particularly in winter.
- Want to lounge around the house in your sleepwear during the day.
- Like mixing and matching tops and bottoms.
Plenty of people own both and switch with the seasons. If you are leaning towards a set, our pajama and loungewear sets are made from the same fabric as our nightgowns.
The main nightgown styles
Tank nightie
Sleeveless and light, a tank nightie is the coolest option for summer nights or for anyone who runs hot all year round. It is also a good choice if you find sleeves bunch up uncomfortably when you sleep.
Short sleeve nightie
Our most versatile style. A short sleeve nightie gives a little more coverage than a tank but stays cool and easy to sleep in. It is the one most people wear in every season.
Long sleeve nightie
The winter nightgown. Long sleeves give you warmth and coverage on cold nights without the waistband of a pajama set. In a plaid or tartan print it also makes a lovely alternative to Christmas pajamas.
Oversized tee nightie
A relaxed, slouchy fit inspired by the classic sleep shirt. If your favourite thing to sleep in is an old, oversized t-shirt, this is the grown-up, much softer version.
Caftan
Loose, flowing and elegant, a caftan works as a nightgown and as loungewear around the house or by the pool. Read more in our guide to what a caftan is and how to wear one, or browse our caftans.
How to choose the right length
- Above the knee: the coolest and least restrictive, good for warm sleepers.
- Knee length: the most popular. Covered enough to feel comfortable answering the door, short enough not to tangle.
- Mid-calf and longer: warmer and more traditional, but the extra fabric can twist around your legs if you are a restless sleeper.
Your height changes everything, so check the product photos. Every model on our site has her height and size listed, so you can see where a nightgown falls on a real person before you buy.
Why fabric matters more in a nightgown
A nightgown is mostly one layer of fabric against your skin all night, so the fabric does all the work. Cheap polyester nightgowns look fine but trap heat and leave you clammy. Cotton breathes but holds onto moisture and can feel damp if you sweat.
Our nightgowns are made from our signature bamboo fabric (viscose from bamboo). It is soft, breathable and moisture-wicking, so it pulls moisture away from your skin and helps regulate your temperature through the night. That makes it a particularly good choice for hot sleepers, for night sweats and for sensitive skin. For a deeper look at the fabric, see our guide to viscose from bamboo.
Nightgowns for specific needs
- Night sweats and menopause: choose a tank or short sleeve style in a moisture-wicking fabric. Our guide to pajamas for menopause night sweats has more detail.
- Pregnancy and nursing: a nightgown with no waistband is comfortable through every trimester. Have a look at our maternity sleepwear too.
- After surgery: a loose nightgown is easy to get on and off and does not press on a healing area. See our guide on what to wear after surgery.
- Sensitive skin: look for a soft, smooth fabric without scratchy seams or trims.
Caring for your nightgown
Our nightgowns are milled and made in Canada and built to last. To keep them soft for longer, turn them inside out before washing and tumble dry on low. That is it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most comfortable nightgown fabric?
For most people, a soft, breathable fabric that wicks moisture is the most comfortable to sleep in all night. Bamboo viscose is a popular choice because it feels silky soft and helps regulate temperature.
Are nightgowns better for hot sleepers?
Generally, yes. A nightgown allows more air flow than a pajama set and has no waistband to trap heat. A tank or short sleeve nightie in a breathable fabric is the best option for hot sleepers.
Is a nightgown warm enough in winter?
A long sleeve nightgown is warm enough for most people in a heated home. If you get cold, add a robe for the mornings.
Are your nightgowns made in Canada?
Yes. Our nightgowns are made in Canada from our signature bamboo fabric.
What size nightgown should I buy?
Nightgowns are forgiving, so most people order their usual size. Check our women's size guide and the model measurements on each product page if you are unsure.
Find your new favourite nightgown. Shop women's nightgowns in tank, short sleeve, long sleeve and oversized styles.
