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Byrdie / Sabrina Jiang
If you've become a loungewear convert as of late, hear me out: switch out your sweats with a set of silk pajamas. Not only are they lighter than a cotton sweatsuit, but they'll make you feel fancy no matter the occasion (even if that occasion is bedtime).
Silk pajamas (whether pure silk, silk blends, or upscale alternatives) provide a lot of benefits compared to other fabrics: most are temp-regulating, hypoallergenic, silky soft, and they simply just make you feel good. Plus, pajamas aren't just for sleeping these days: a button-down pajama top, elegant nightgown, or silky wide-leg trousers can easily be styled for a daytime look or a sultry evening out.
Meet the Expert
Sheyna Imm is an NYC-based stylist/image consultant who works closely with clients in the editorial, commercial and personal styling world. Her client list includes Harper's Bazaar, The New York Times, NBA, HBO, Target, Atlantic Records, and more.
"In my opinion, sleepwear has evolved into an all-day look, that can fall within the confines of 'chic comfort' after we have been forced to be homebodies this past year and a half," says Sheyna Imm, an NYC-based stylist. "Spending more time and decision making on what you can wear at home to feel comfortable, but still presentable with work-from-home, Zoom calls, and popping out for a few errands...enter the silk pajamas."
The following pajama styles include classic long-sleeve sets, light and airy short-sleeve numbers, and some that hold a bit more personality and complexity, from opulent prints and feathery details to a nightgown reminiscent of Holly Golightly—and even a robe or two. Whether you're shopping for some silk pajamas for sleeping, lounging, going out, or working from home (we won't tell), we've put in the work to find the best options.
Read on to discover our favorites.
Best Overall
Sleeper Sizeless Pajama Set with Pants
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Sleeper
Perhaps the trendiest brand that comes to mind is Sleeper—a cool, modern label that dominates the sleepwear category both on Instagram and within the celebrity circle. It's also a favorite of Imm's. "[Sleeper] makes the most amazing dresses, with so many silhouettes to choose from that work with lots of different body types, awesome pajama sets, and super cute slippers, which are also wearable for your days out," says Imm.
This charming polka dot pattern is especially eye-catching, but they have a handful of other prints and colorways if that's not your vibe. The sizeless fit offers some versatility, too, believe it or not. Style them as separates, or wear the top off-shoulder, tied into a knot, or unbuttoned over a tank top. Plus, it even comes with a matching hair ribbon.
Price at time of publish: $245
Material: 100% Eco-rayon | Fit: Relaxed | Size Range: Sizeless | Care: Dry clean only
Best Value
Summersalt The Cloud 9 Silky PJ Set
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Courtesy of Summersalt
Summersalt’s silky sets have earned tons of positive reviews from shoppers who say they’re incredibly cozy. While not made from real silk, polyester charmeuse is softer and lighter than satin and drapes off the body like liquid. Plus, the recycled fabric is antistatic and antimicrobial, according to the brand. We’d opt for the classically bold leopard print, but you’ve got several options prints-wise.
Price at time of publish: $95
Material: 100% polyester charmeuse | Fit: True to size | Size Range: XS-XXL | Care: Machine wash cold; tumble dry low
Best Cooling
Lunya Washable Silk Pajama Set
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Lunya
Silk can be a tricky fabric to care for but Lunya makes a dreamy version that’s safe to toss in the washing machine—hallelujah. These are slightly relaxed and flowy but fit true to size, and pair nicely with the matching washable silk robe. In addition to silk being great for sweaty sleepers, these also feature a ventilated back and side slits to help keep you cool. Plus, we love the array of gorgeous gemstone colors, especially this Opulent Green style.
Price at time of publish: $188
Material: 100% washable silk | Fit: True to size, slightly relaxed | Size Range: XS-XL | Care: Machine wash cold; lay flat to dry
Best Classic
Sleepy Jones Marina Pajama Set
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Sleepy Jones
In a timeless blue and white stripe pattern, these pajamas from Sleepy Jones are intentionally made to be worn both in and out of the bedroom. From the blue and white colorway to the subtle piping and notched collar, this design is as classic as it gets. While the price may be higher than a basic pair of pajamas, you'll have these for years to come—and with both the top and bottoms included, these are an easy investment.
Price at time of publish: $198
Material: 100% silk | Fit: Oversize | Size Range: XXS-XXL | Care: Hand wash or dry clean; line dry
Best Printed
Rixo Austin Printed Woven Pajama Set
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Courtesy of NET-A-PORTER
Rixo—the London label behind your favorite printed dresses and tops—also makes adorable pajamas in a cozy blend. This NET-A-PORTER-exclusive print features colorfully illustrated animals and a leopard print piping. Simply put: it's a work of art. These are made from viscose, which is a semi-synthetic fiber that is lightweight, drapey, and soft—making it hard to ever change into real work clothes.
Material: 100% viscose | Fit: True to size, relaxed | Size Range: XXS-XL | Care: Dry clean only
Best Splurge
Olivia von Halle Emeli Royal Silk Shirt and Shorts Set
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Courtesy of NET-A-PORTER
Gift yourself an ultra-luxe silk outfit to boost your downtime routine. We have our eyes on this beautiful navy printed set from Olivia von Halle. Boasting Mother of Pearl buttons and featuring Ancient Roman coins, this printed short sleeve set will make you feel like a king. It can be easily mixed and matched too for various occasions outside of the home, making it an easy sell for your wardrobe.
Price at time of publish: $585
Material: 100% silk | Fit: True to size, relaxed | Size Range: XS-XL | Care: Hand wash or dry clean
Best Vegan
ettitude Sateen Long Sleeve PJ Shirt
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Courtesy of ettitude
Sadly, silk is not vegan. The good news? There are plenty of vegan silk-like options that allow you to reap the fabric's benefits while maintaining a vegan lifestyle. Made of organic bamboo fibers, this slinky PJ top by ettitude almost feels like you have nothing on at all. The breathable sateen weave keeps you cool and the silky-smooth bamboo is comparable to cotton's 1,000 thread count (yes, you read that right). It's also 100 by OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it's free from chemicals that could potentially irritate your skin.
Price at time of publish: $86
Material: 100% organic bamboo | Fit: True to size | Size Range: S-L | Care: Machine wash cold/delicate; line dry
Best Machine-Washable
Marine Layer Washable Silk Wide Leg Pant
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Courtesy of Marine Layer
No need for any more runs to the dry cleaner with this pick; Marine Layer's silk pajamas are machine washable and 100 percent silk, which sounds like some type of magic, if you ask us. We love the classic navy and red stripes, too, which seem perfect for fall/winter. The pants feature a relaxed fit that's true to size and its matching top is slightly cropped. Take into account its hypoallergenic and temperature-regulating features, and these are a great modern take on timeless PJs.
Material: 100% silk | Fit: True to size | Size Range: XS-XL | Care: Machine wash delicate; line dry
Best Striped
Morgan Lane Ruthie Striped Silk Charmeuse Top
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Courtesy of Shopbop
If you’re all about playful prints, Morgan Lane is the destination for all vibrant silk sleepwear. This features a relaxed fit with a charmeuse body and silk shell. What we love most about Morgan Lane's sleepwear is its fashion-forward utility outside of the bed. We’d shamelessly pair this bold striped top with jeans and stroll right from bed to brunch. We also found the matching striped pants, so you can complete the set.
Price at time of publish: $298
Material: Body: 100% charmeuse; Shell: 100% silk | Fit: Relaxed | Size Range: P-XL | Care: Hand wash cold; lay flat to dry
Best Robe
Jibri Silk Burnout Robe
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Courtesy of Jibri
Handmade in Atlanta, this piece is designed for sizes 10-28. Made of 100 percent silk, it's a luxurious option for sleeping, relaxing, or wrapping up in front of the vanity. It features lightweight silk with a removable belt, pockets, maxi length, and beautiful bell sleeves. While our favorite is this whimsical black, cream, and plum-colored print, the label makes a handful of other designs in this style as well.
Price at time of publish: $265
Material: 100% silk | Fit: Relaxed | Size Range: One size fits most (plus) | Care: Hand wash cold; lay flat to dry
Best Lightweight
Papinelle Silk Hearts Boxer Pajama Set
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Courtesy of Papinelle
The heart details on these PJs from sustainable label Papinelle are perfectly subdued, not overly saccharine. Not only are they lightweight, but the button-down fastening and drawstring shorts provide additional wearing options for all-night (and day) comfort. It's worth mentioning, too, that Papinelle uses 100 percent home-compostable mailers to ship online orders, so you can sleep peacefully knowing the packaging won't end up in your local landfill.
Price at time of publish: $169
Material: 100% silk | Fit: True to size, relaxed | Size Range: XS-L | Care: Machine wash delicate
Best for Sensitive Skin
UPSTATE Leisure Pant
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Courtesy of UPSTATE
Another favorite of Imm's is UPSTATE. "[The brand] does really cute leisurewear that functions for both day and night in this super-soft awesome washed silks, cute multi-purpose kimono robes, and comfy pants in amazing washes and natural dyes," she says. "They also do these amazing silk pillowcases—which I am dying to get my hands on as soon as I re-decorate my bedroom."
These pants are made from raw silk (also known as silk noil), which is untreated silk reeled from the cocoon and covered with a protein called sericin that contains amino acids and collagen. According to the brand, if you rub the silk noil on your skin, you can feel the moisturizing benefits (which make these especially comfortable if you have dry skin, acne, or eczema).
Price at time of publish: $130
Material: 100% raw silk | Fit: Relaxed | Size Range: 0-10 | Care: Machine wash cold; tumble dry low
Best for Lounging
Prayers and Plans Jessica Flare Silk White Set
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Courtesy of Prayers & Plans
Handcrafted in Nigeria, these custom-order pajamas are a treat for tired eyes. Designed with dramatic flared sleeves and wide-leg pants for an oversized fit, they're the ultimate lounge set. The Mother of Pearl buttons and internal French seams are small touches that make this set extra special. We can already picture ourselves sauntering around the apartment in them, at every time of day.
Price at time of publish: $150
Material: 100% silk-satin | Fit: Oversize | Size Range: XS-XXL | Care: Hand wash or dry clean
Best Day to Night
Fleur du Mal Washable Silk Cami
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Fleur de Mal
As luxe leaders in silky sleepwear, Fleur du Mal makes some of the most indulgent options—such as this spaghetti-strap top with ever-so-subtle ruffle detailing. It's crafted with a touch of spandex so there's a slight stretch (a nice quality for lounging). And the transition from lounging to heading out into society is seamless—just add some strappy heels or leather boots. To complete the set, pair it with the label's matching machine washable silk PJ pant.
Price at time of publish: $125
Material: 92% silk, 8% spandex | Fit: True to size, slightly cropped | Size Range: XS-L | Care: Machine wash cold; lay flat to dry
Best Feathered
Taibo Bacar Mandevo Street Pajama
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Courtesy of Industrie Africa
It’d be a shame to wear this feathery set strictly in bed. The bright, patterned design by Mozambican brand Taibo deserves to be seen by everyone. Pair with strappy heels and a clutch for a dinner date in the city, or prepare to be the center of attention at your next milestone celebration. While perfect for dress-up, it's obviously a cozy and ultra-chic option for lounging, sleeping, or working from home, too.
Price at time of publish: $782
Material: Silk sateen, faux feathers | Fit: True to size | Size Range: XS-XXL | Care: Dry clean only
Best Bridal
Kiki de Montparnasse Silk PJ Top
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Kiki De Montparnasse
This white and blue design by Kiki de Montparnasse is the ultimate gift for any bride-to-be. Ultra-soft and bright white, this luxurious pajama top is also perfect for stay-at-home (just don't spill your wine). It's made with Mother of Pearl buttons and luxurious piping for a timeless aesthetic—which ultimately becomes a perfect momento from your special day. Complete the set with the matching bottoms.
Price at time of publish: $250
Material: 100% silk | Fit: True to size | Size Range: XS-L | Care: Dry clean only
Most Versatile
Araks Shelby Pajama Top
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Courtesy of Araks
Look closely: There’s the most subtle contrast piping on these silk charmeuse pajamas by New York label Araks; plus, the buttons are slightly off-center. It's the little details that make us love this set. Designed with Mother of Pearl buttons and a delicate chest pocket, this Carob colorway would pair nicely with your morning cup of joe. The rich chocolate brown top is great for layering with a ribbed tank and jeans for weekend errands, or you can style the matching pajama pants with a crop top and strappy sandals for an elevated evening out. If you prefer something bolder and less neutral, there are plenty of prints and colors to choose from.
Price at time of publish: $375
Material: Washed silk charmeuse | Fit: True to size | Size Range: XS-XL | Care: Dry clean only
Best for Work
Asceno London Jet Black Striped Silk Pyjama Shirt
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Courtesy of Asceno
London-based Asceno is all about easy silhouettes in luxe materials. Naturally, it specializes in making classic silk pajamas, like this striped set. The top's stark black-and-white contrast matched with a polished cut is suitable for both in bed or at the office. Made of pure silk, it's a luxurious choice that will keep you feeling chic while you sleep.
Price at time of publish: $300
Material: 100% silk | Fit: Oversize | Size Range: XS-XL | Care: Hand wash cold
Best Vegan Robe
Grace Eleyae Vegan Silk Robe
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Courtesy of Grace Eleyae
If you want to sleep in only a robe, there's no judgment here (and actually that sounds like a swell idea). Simply gorgeous, this option by Grace Eleyae is crafted from vegan silk and features a romantic floral print in a coral and seafoam colorway. It's lightweight enough to throw on while getting ready for the day, and one reviewer also commented on its durability. A bonus? It even has pockets.
Material: Vegan silk | Fit: True to size | Size Range: S-XXL | Care: Machine wash cold; hang dry
Best Boyfriend-Fit
Intimissimi Silk Satin Boyfriend-Fit Pajama Top
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Courtesy of Intimissimi
While Italian label Intimissimi is a go-to for delicate, intimate pieces, their pajamas are worth investing in as well. This set features a relaxed, boyfriend fit with a slightly boxy silhouette, ensuring optimum comfort that will give you chills (the good kind). It drapes off the body beautifully and comes in an array of classic colorways. Keep in mind, however, that Intissimi's size range is more limited than others on this list.
Price at time of publish: $139
Material: Body: 100% silk; detail: 100% polyester | Fit: Relaxed | Size Range: XS-L | Care: Machine wash cold with like colors; line dry
What to Look for in Silk Pajamas
Type of silk
While most of these options are 100 percent silk, we also include silk blends, viscose, polyester charmeuse, and vegan silk. Silk is a natural fiber made from silkworms and other bugs that are produced into silk fabric. Because of this, silk pajamas are breathable, lustrous, and usually relatively expensive.
"Silk is preferred for bedtime for the slippery transitions when changing positions in sleep," explains Imm. "Silk naturally moves with your body, whereas cotton and other materials don't move as effortlessly against the materials of your sheets and blankets."
Contrary to popular belief, satin is actually a type of weave rather than a type of fabric; it can be made with silk, but unless specified, it's typically crafted from polyester or nylon, which are synthetic fibers. These satin fabrics, while lustrous on one side and dull on the other, are less breathable and more prone to static buildup. When it comes to vegan silk, perhaps the most popular option is Cupro, which is a regenerated fiber made from scrap cotton. Each silk-like fabric has its own advantages, so be sure to understand the benefits before committing.
Care instructions
Silk is a fragile fabric that can be easily damaged if not cared for properly. Most silk fabrics are hand wash or dry clean only; however, washable silk is now more prevalent, making it easier for you to enjoy the benefits of silk with less hassle. Before investing in silk pajamas, ensure their care instructions align with your lifestyle habits and washing cycle.
Versatility
Although silk pajamas are intended foremost for sleeping, they offer much more than that these days. With pajamas and loungewear now doubling as daywear, you can shamelessly pull off the PJ look outside of the bedroom (especially if you're someone who prioritizes comfort over everything else). "I think just looking for something that feels unique and good to you [are qualities you should look for]," says Imm. "Whether that be slim fit or loose, two-pieces or one silk dress, silk or silk blends—it's your world."
Additionally, consider if your silk pajamas of choice will mesh with everyday clothes in your wardrobe. For example, that silky cami top would be equally gorgeous for date night with some strappy heels and slim dark-wash jeans. Or pair the black and white striped pajama shirt with tailored black trousers and leather loafers for a day at the office.
Why Trust Byrdie?
This piece was written by Erika Reals, Byrdie's Associate Fashion Commerce Editor, who has an entire drawer in her wardrobe strictly dedicated to pajamas. Her experience includes several years writing in the fashion and entertainment space; before joining Dotdash in 2020, she wrote for Daily Mail's Fashion Finder column. For this roundup, she spent hours researching the best silk pajamas across different categories, studied the benefits of silk versus other sleep-friendly fabrics, and even enlisted the help of fashion expert Sheyna Imm, a commercial stylist based in New York City.
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