Lazing the day away in your best pajamas used to be one of life's simple pleasures. In recent years though, in the spirit of regularly working from home and spending, well, a lot more time indoors, PJs now serve as a sort of uniform for it all. In other words, you're probably wearing them more often than when it's time to slip into your sheets. Brands have taken note, and many have amassed a loyal following thanks to pajama iterations that fall somewhere between day and nightwear. If you haven't done so already, we recommend you up the ante with an indulgent set of silk pajamas.
Try a matching pajama set (perhaps one trimmed with feathers because, why not?) from J. Crew, a statement silky print from Olivia von Halle, or more affordable options from Lunya or Rihanna's Savage x Fenty. Read on to shop the best silk pajama options from around the internet and from our editor's PJ drawers, and helpful tips like how to best wash silk.
What to Look For
- Feel
"I believe what you wear has a transformative effect on how you feel so when shopping for silk pajamas, you should look for pieces that feel like heaven," describes Olivia von Halle (opens in new tab), founder of the eponymous luxury loungewear brand (opens in new tab) known for its opulent silkwear. And while you may think that all silk pajamas are the same in that they all feel, well, silky, that isn't a universal truth.
First to note is that silk isn't a fabric; It's a fiber that's then woven to become different fabrics like silk satin, silk chiffon, or silk crepe, all of which have a different feel. Then, of course, you have your silk blends and imitation textiles: Viscose, polyester, vegan silk, etc. Thus, due to the many fabrications and varying percentages of pure fiber, different silk pieces will have different feels. You can expect an authentic silk satin—the fabric silk pajamas are most commonly made of—to feel soft and buttery, but heed caution that viscose or polyester blends tend to come off as scratchy against the skin.
- Quality
Authentic silk is quantified by "mommes" (abbreviated to "mm"), a Japanese word that's the universal unit of measurement for the fiber. While there is a mathematical element to momme weight (far too many numbers and decimals are involved for my little fashion-loving brain to comprehend), the takeaway here is simple: The higher the momme, the heavier and denser the weave will be, ergo, the better quality the silk piece will be.
But here comes the tricky bit: Brands don't always offer the momme weight of their silk pieces. In those cases, you'll want to pay close attention to the materials and percentage breakdown of how much real silk is used to gauge the quality of the piece.
- Price
Higher-quality silk, therefore, will have a heftier price tag, but trust us here—if you want a pair of bona fide silk pajamas, it'll be worth the splurge. "To me, luxury is first and foremost about exquisite fabrics, and at OvH we only use the finest," van Halle describes. "The kind of silk and techniques we employ are a rare find today due to their expense, but this is what gives integrity to our materials and enables us to create pieces you can treasure in your wardrobe forever!"
But if you're hoping to cap your budget at $200 (give and take) or below, you'll want to look for affordable silk pajamas made of polyester charmeuse blends— several of which you'll find below.
How to Wash Silk
"The natural fibers in silk have excellent properties that will prolong the time you can wear it without washing," explains von Halle. "Silk is moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial so simply hang your silk pieces in the fresh air and let the material work its magic. This method means you can extend the time between washes, which is also great for the planet," she points out.
But when you do have to launder your pair of silk pajamas, von Halle emphasizes that you should "wash them with cool water to preserve the life of the garment and the saturation of the color." She adds, too, that the products you use to launder your silk pieces are incredibly important as well. "Surprisingly it's harsh detergents, not heat, that do the most damage to delicate fibers, so always ensure you opt for a specialist silk detergent. My favorite one is Clothes Doctor’s Eco Wash For Silk."
The Best Silk Pajamas for Women
- Best Washable Silk Pajamas: Lunya Washable Silk Set (opens in new tab)
- Best Luxury Silk Pajamas: Olivia von Halle Lila Corcia Silk Satin Pajama Set (opens in new tab)
- Best Plus-Size Silk Pajamas: Savage x Fenty Heavenly Satin Sleep Shirt (opens in new tab)
- Best Affordable Silk Pajamas: Summersalt The Cloud 9 Silky PJ Set (opens in new tab)
- Best Silk Nightgown: Sleeping With Jacques Francine Two-Tone Lace Slip Dress (opens in new tab)
"This silk set is the ultimate in low-key luxury," says Marie Claire's Director of Content Strategy (opens in new tab), Jenny Hollander (opens in new tab). "It's Lunya's best seller, and for good reason: It's cozy but not cloying (it has 'thermoregulating' powers, apparently), relaxed but not baggy, and can be mixed and matched with your other summer pajamas (opens in new tab). Win-win-win." Bonus: This is a washable set, meaning you can toss it directly in the machine! Still, heed caution by washing it in cold water and perhaps even tossing it in a laundry bag for delicates.
Pros: 100-percent Mulberry silk; Under-$200; Washable; Sizing up to a 2X; Made from BLUESIGN-approved dyes.
Cons: Reviewers say the sizing runs small.
"I am not someone who sleeps in silk pajamas every night of the week, but when I do, it’s in this 100 percent silk matching set from Papinelle," details E-Commerce Writer Julia Marzovilla. "It’s so lightweight and breathable, comes in several colors, and it makes me feel extra luxe thanks to the elegant contrasting piped detailing. I personally own them in black, but I’ve also gifted my sister and mom ones that come in shades of pale and blue. While yes, the brand says that you can machine-wash these on a gentle cycle, I prefer to hand-wash them to keep them soft and fresh."
Pros: 100 percent silk; Machine washable on gentle cycle; Graphic piped hems
Cons: Above $200; Reviewers said colors lightened with washes.
Savage X Fenty's Heavenly Satin Sleep Shirt is offered in a range of XS to 4X, making it a cozy PJ nightdress that everyone can enjoy. This baby pink button-down boasts an ornate jacquard print featuring dreamy clouds, hearts, and squiggles, and sultry lace-up sides because this is a Rihanna brainchild after all, so, of course, there's going to be a little something-something. One reviewer commented, "this is the softest sleep shirt I have ever owned," while another mentioned they often wear this piece out of the house as a silky statement blouse. Another bonus? You can toss this piece directly in the washing machine—all you need to do is make sure you opt for a cold-water setting.
Pros: Machine wash cold; Comfy oversized fit; Under $200; Up to a 4x.
Cons: Polyester blend; Only one colorway.
"The Lila Silk Satin Pajama remains Olivia von Halle’s bestselling style, as well as one of my personal favorites," says the founder of the eponymous luxury loungewear brand. "It’s made of 19-momme silk which feels like butter on your skin. And the set is a timeless and chic silhouette with a twist, thanks to our fresh and playful prints. What’s not to love about the Lila Pajama Set?" As for von Halle's personal favorite? "I love the Persea print from our latest collection—a playful carousel horse print recalling Erte’s opulent designs from the Art Deco Era," she adds, referencing the Russian-born French artist.
Pros: 100 percent silk; Screen printed; Partially elasticated waistband with drawstring.
Cons: Largest size is XL; Dry clean or hand wash only.
"Before motherhood, I devoted a lot of time to learning Muay Thai (a Thai combat sport) and boxing. Along the way, I developed a love for the look and feel of boxing shorts. Brands like Alo and Celine have reimagined the boxing short as streetwear, but I think Florida-based Reboot & Co did it best. The unisex shorts come in sun/olive green or dusty rose/grey. The block colors, oversized logo, and smocked waist result in the most creative rendition yet of the traditional sports garb. Made with 100% silk charmeuse, Reboot’s lightweight, wide-leg boxing shorts deliver knockout comfort, be it as gym wear, streetwear, or loungewear," says Tanya Benedicto Klich, Senior Editor of Money & Career.
Pros: 100-percent silk charmeuse; Unisex.
Cons: Over $200; Only two colorways.
Katie Kolodinski (opens in new tab), the founder of Silk Laundry, shouts out her brand's Camp Shirt and matching Bias Cut Pants in a colorful blur print for a playful, maximalist sleep-ready look. And as a silk expert and connoisseur, Kolodinski's judgment and insight is one you can trust. “Silk is very easy to wear and doesn’t get soiled or smell like other synthetic fibers can," she explains Marie Claire over email. Like most quality silk pieces, she recommends you launder your Silk Laundry pajama set delicately. "You'll want to hand wash them in cold water with little to no delicate detergent, then squeeze gently and press it into a towel."
Pros: 100-percent sand-washed silk; Bold and colorful look.
Cons: Over $200; Can't dry in machine; Largest size is XL.
"Wearing a matching pajama set makes me feel like I have my life together," says Samantha Holender (opens in new tab), Beauty Editor at Marie Claire. "I can't explain it—it's just a thing. Currently, my obsession is this set from LilySilk. The fabric is so soft, shiny, and most importantly wildly comfortable," she describes, shouting out its 22mm charmeuse silk and polyester satin chiffon fabrication for being incredibly breathable and light. In simple terms, Holender describes this camisole and trouser set as a "chef's kiss" purchase.
Pros: 22mm silk; Made of 100-percent Mulberry silk; Eye-catching graphic trim; Under $200; Lilsilk's silk is infused with 18 beneficial amino acids; Washable.
Cons: Largest size is XXL.
No, your eyes do not deceive—this silky pajama set is only $95, making it one of the best bargains on this list. One of Summersalt's best-selling items, The Cloud 9 Silk PJ Set offers an ultra-relaxed fit with its roomy button-down and effortless pull-on pants with an elastic waistband. Envision yourself lazing the day away on the couch, streaming TV until your heart's content—you're wearing these pajamas, aren't you? And if this shell print isn't calling your name, choose between a confetti-like polka dot, dark leopard, or emerald and ruby red speckle print.
Pros: Under $200; Machine wash cold; Made of 100 percent recycled, anti-microbial, and anti-static polyester charmeuse.
Cons: Not genuine silk; Reviewers say there is a limited stretch.
If you want the look of a vintage nightgown but either don't want to do the IRL thrift shop hunting yourself or aren't particularly enthused by a pre-slept-in option, this lace-trimmed nightgown from luxury pajama brand Sleeping With Jacques is one to consider. This dress is made of a uniquely smooth and stretchy blend that's composed of 93 percent silk and 7 percent spandex. Pro tip: Layer a black turtleneck under this slip dress for a sultry, sleek look you can wear out of the house.
Pros: Elegant vintage look; Stretchy silk blend.
Cons: Over $200; Largest size is XL; Dry clean only.
"I'm a huge fan of Intimissimi's silk pajamas," offers Gabrielle Ulubay, E-Commerce Writer at Marie Claire (opens in new tab). "I absolutely live in their silk nightdresses in the summer because I adore the lightness of their fabrics, and now, as the weather gets colder, I opt for longer, equally as lightweight sets—like this button-down shirt and trouser pair. Not only does it feel comfortable and warm without making me overheat, but the white trim gives the set a chic, classic feel." Opt for Ulubay's top black pick or try on of the label's six other colorway options.
From Petite Plume's old Hollywood-inspired Cabaret Collection, this black silk set is made of 100-percent Mulberry silk, meaning they're PJs you can feel good about investing in. They're also a pair of pajamas you can easily style (opens in new tab) for out-of-the-house wear. All you'd need to do is throw on the feather-trimmed tunic (which, let's first take a moment to appreciate because, my god, it's fabulous!), slip into your favorite light-wash boyfriend jeans and a pair of slingback kitten heels, and you're good to head out the door.
Pros: 22mm; Can be machine washed in cold water and a laundry bag; Also comes in white.
Cons: Must dry flat; Only offered up to an XL; Over $200.
Nordstrom's tiered maxi dress is what you put on when you're working from home and want to be comfortable but can't stand the thought of wearing yet another loungewear set (opens in new tab). Team this nightgown with a pair of chic house slippers, and you'll feel like a Bridgerton (opens in new tab) character in the middle of the night, drafting a letter by candlelight to your beau. "This gown is nothing short of a dream in the fall months, and I look forward to the comfort of this silky gown all winter," writes one reviewer. Could be just a tad longer, but a great length for silky lounging at the end of the day!"
Pros: 100-percent silk; Washable;
Cons: Size range caps at XL.
Quince's 100% Washable Silk Pants are made from washable, 100-percent Mulberry silk and boast a high leg slit for ventilation—the ideal silk set for anyone, whether you run hot or cold. "The pants are comfortable and keep me cool at night," writes one reviewer. "I don't want to take them off in the AM!" Further, the material was crafted in a mill that meets the standards of the sustainable textile production company Bluesign® and is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, which means it contains zero hazardous substances.
Pros: 100-percent Mulberry silk; 19mm; Breathable leg slit; Washable; Pants have pockets; 4.5/5 Reviewer ratings.
Cons: Size rang is only XS and XL.
For those who are still wearing an oversized college-era (perhaps maybe even childhood-era) tee as a makeshift nightshirt, consider this your official sign that it's time to upgrade. Sleeper’s Sizeless Pajama Set offers a roomy fit similar to your beloved T-shirt but in a much more polished look. They're the set you slip on at 9 p.m. for a self-care-filled evening, keep on for a deep, 8-hour slumber, and then wear the next day, too, while working from home. To that end, they’re made from a breathable 100 percent eco-rayon silk that offers the look and feel of silk but with a more sustainable spin. Oh, and bonus: This silky set comes with a free matching hair ribbon, too.
Pros: A comfortable baggy fit; Five colorway options.
Cons: Over $200; Dry clean only; One size that only words for XS-XL.
Another upgraded alternative to your favorite sleep T-shirt is this 100-percent silk top by sustainable lingerie and sleepwear brand Araks. The washed silk is manufactured in an OEKO-TEX 100-certified silk mill in Korea that uses non-azo and non-formaldehyde dyes, meaning every piece is free of harmful and toxic chemicals. Not only will this silk tee feel good and buttery on your skin but it will also put you at ease knowing it's a product crafted in ethical and mindful conditions. Team this tee with Arak's matching Eduardo Boxers (opens in new tab) for incredibly polished coordinated look.
Pros: Pure silk; Sustainably and ethically made.
Cons: Size range is limited to XS-L; Over $200.
Meet the Expert
Working in trend forecasting and as a luxury brand consultant, Olivia von Halle discovered a gap for luxury leisurewear. Coming home from evenings partying with friends, she would long to ditch her sky-high heels and constricting outfits for something glamorous enough to enjoy a gin and tonic in before sliding off to bed. Seeing that the pajamas and eveningwear of yesteryear spoke to today, Olivia von Halle’s luxury design stand for a proudly playful brand of femininity and mindful luxury. Seeking to create a covetable wardrobe— full of objects of lust, and love, and fascination—Olivia von Halle has taken the styles that women turn to in these moments and elevated them for a new era.