Nightwear, in particular, pajamas have also evolved greatly over the years as can be observed from the designs shown above. Pajamas beginning in the Eastern world to being a symbol of fashion today have a deeper meaning related to the changes that occur in the society and the trends that are followed by people in fashion. To find out different types of pajamas currently trending, visit the link.
Historical Origins
The term “pajamas” possibly has its roots in the Hindi word “pāy-jāma” which roughly translates to leg garment. First, pajamas were flannel trousers, which were not buttoned, they were tied at the waist, and both men and women wore them in South Asia. European colonists embraced this sweet sleepwear in the 18th century and they took it back home and replaced the nightshirt for men.
Early Western Adaptations
It is interesting to learn that pajamas were adopted in the early twentieth century in Western societies. Typically, sleepwear for men was two-piece garments consisting of baggy trousers and flannel shirts with buttons that could be made of cotton or silk material. Nightgowns for women came later and it progressed from being more revealing garments worn to bed to more conservative wear that included trousers and tops. The clothes’ designs were simple, primarily serving to meet the practical needs of the wearer, and did not have elaborate patterns or decorations for aesthetic appeal.
Mid-20th Century Developments
The post-WWII trend for the pajama styles was changed in the fifties and sixties with the influence of Hollywood and fashion queens. Thus, pajamas gradually shifted to fit modern styles, colors, and different designs, as well as using more elegant fabrics such as satin or lace. The concept of ‘loungewear’ appeared as the clothes that are worn at home and for sleeping are becoming more like those that are worn outside of the home. As for nightwear, the choices for women expanded and diversified, and the materials and designs of the garments also improved; now there were babydolls and tailored pajama sets.
The Rise of Loungewear
As for clothes, the clothes of the late 20th and the early 21st centuries are predominantly characterized by the elements of loungewear which reflects the concepts of comfort in combination with the style. This period brought the innovation of new fabrics for instance jersey and fleece which made the pajamas comfortable and could be worn in different climates. The concept of wearing athletic wear to other occasions also affected pajama wear and so we see things like joggers and hoodies which are considered pajamas.
Contemporary Styles
Contemporary pajamas are now everyday clothes that may be worn to bed or during the day, rather than just things to sleep in. With some of the most respected designers on the market offering stylish and contemporary sleepwear apparel, sleepwear businesses have advanced. Pajamas that are both socially and environmentally responsible have emerged in recent years thereby depicting a rising consumer concern on the social effects of fashion. Nowadays there is a great variety of pajamas and they can be made in a basic shirt and trousers look or be a set of fashionable night clothes with bright patterns and elegant cut.
Conclusion
This evolution of pajamas from traditional to the most popular and current ones shows the constant changes the fashion industry undergoes, and how it provides for the latest trends in people’s daily lives. Over time, pajamas have evolved from their simplicity to become part of the trendy clothing we wear today, while also being representative of comfort and fashion.