The best way to start the day is to get a good night’s sleep, and while it may seem trivial at first, choosing your sleepwear can drastically change how you sleep. Sometimes you’re just looking for comfort while sleeping; sometimes, you’re looking for warmth, sometimes a bit of whimsy or glamour, and of course, sometimes your nightwear is chosen for its sex appeal.

Nightgowns should be cool and reduce the night sweats that many women have.

While the nightgown design is important, the most crucial factor in temperature control is the fabric. Nightgowns made from natural fibers such as cotton or silk are much more comfortable. Although man-made fibers are easier to wash and care for, they retain body heat and do not allow the body to breathe.

When it’s cold, the choice of sleepwear often changes from a nightgown to pajamas; in any case, the choice should include a design with sleeves. Even at low temperatures, natural fibers such as silk and cotton are more comfortable than modern man-made fibers that seem to trap sweat, but models with sleeves stand out. If you sleep alone, you may want your nightgown lingerie to be made from a thicker fabric designed to trap your body heat.

Comfort is essential in sleepwear, and straps often ruin it. Straps that are too short, straps that are too long, straps that cut in, straps that fall off, or worse, straps that fall off. Ideally, the straps should be firmly attached and somehow adjustable, or, best of all, criss-cross at the back, a design feature that ensures they don’t slip off. If the sleepwear you choose has straps, check the design before buying; a surprising amount of straps start to fall off while the clothes are still in stores.

Choose a nightgown that looks like a long evening gown for a glamorous choice. Silk or satin next to the skin creates a luxurious feel and is generally more breathable and comfortable. If you have a pear shape and hips larger than your bust, you may have trouble finding the right nightgown like most women. Standard sizes allow for a two-inch difference between the hips and bust, but many women find the difference greater, especially after having children.

In terms of fabric, the most glamorous option is usually satin, which feels good on the skin, but again, beware of faux satins; silk may be a better choice. The reflective surface of satin can make you appear bigger than you are, so if that bothers you, consider less dreamy silk or using satin on a crepe base, crepe side out, with the elegance of satin against the skin can be a great and sensual choice.

Conclusion

Some luxury brands decorate the bodice of their nightgowns and underwear with beaded embroidery or beaded lace. Please think about this carefully before you buy. Lace may look attractive, but it is often stiff and scratches the skin. It looks great and will make you feel good, but will it be comfortable if you plan on wearing it in intimate situations? The same can be said about cheaper and coarser laces.