9 Best Pajamas For Women 2024 | Tested Review - Forbes Vetted

Nov 12, 2024

It can sometimes feel like getting a good night's sleep is futile, but a comfortable pair of pajamas is a key first step in achieving restful bliss. We tested over a dozen styles to find the best pajamas for women that are soft, breathable, cozy (but not too warm), well-fitting and stylish. During our thorough evaluation, we analyzed key factors like fabric weight, pocket placement and post-wash shrinkage to land on our nine recommendations. Our top pick is the Cozy Earth Bamboo Jogger Set, a uniquely soft-yet-stretchy set with a brushed texture. The Tommy John Downtime Set came in a close second, offering excellent breathability in a silky, smooth package.

We tested 13 styles to determine the nine best pajama sets for women that offer cozy, breathable ... [+] comfort.

That’s why it’s important to pick a pair based on your individual needs, whether you run hot, live in a cold climate or need a polished pair that can be dressed up for remote work meetings (your secret’s safe with us). Below, find the best pajamas for women, whether you’re looking to treat yourself or give a cozy gift to a loved one.

Cozy Earth

Our comfort rating (0 to 5): 4.8 | Sizes: XS to XXXL | Colors: 5 total, including Charcoal and Ivory | Materials: 62% bamboo viscose, 28% acrylic, 10% spandex | Pockets: 2 pants pockets

Why we tested this pair: Cozy Earth is a reader favorite and won as the best cooling pajamas in a previous version of this story. We wanted to test the brand’s jogger and pullover crew set for a slightly warmer option.

What we loved: First, the joggers and top are supremely soft—they’re made from viscose, a derivative of bamboo with a luxurious feel—and they have temperature-regulating qualities, so while they’re mid-weight, they didn’t cause overheating. The fabric doesn’t pill or wrinkle either, and it has stretch for comfort. This set was stylish enough to wear out with sneakers, as an added bonus.

Not ideal but not dealbreakers: It’s an expensive set but truly nothing else topped the quality of this pair.

Tommy John

Our comfort rating (0 to 5): 5 | Sizes: XS to XXL | Colors: 7 total, including Twilight Mauve and Black | Materials: 66% acrylic, 29% modal, 5% spandex | Pockets: 2 pants pockets

Why we tested this pair: Tommy John is popular on social media, and the pajamas get such high ratings that we had to see what all the hype was about.

What we loved: Hype deserved. The set quickly became one of our favorite pairs—it has a second-skin feel thanks to the modal stretch fabric, which is naturally breathable with a silky texture. To up the comfort factor, the brand does away with scratchy tags on its pajamas, and the fabric doesn’t pill or lose its shape even after multiple washings.

Not ideal but not dealbreakers: A small complaint would be that the price is on the higher side, but the quality is outstanding here.

Eberjey

Our comfort rating (0 to 5): 3.5 | Sizes: XS to XL | Colors: 22 total, including Moss/Ivory and Surf Spray/Agave | Materials: 95% Tencel modal, 5% spandex | Pockets: 1 shirt pocket, none in pants

Why we tested this pair: Eberjey’s best-selling pajamas were the previous winner in this story, so we wanted to see how they compared to newer contenders.

What we loved: This pajama set still stands out for its lightweight and breathable design. Made from Eberjey’s temperature-regulating modal with a touch of spandex, it feels buttery smooth against the skin. The silhouette is also stylish, with a wide-leg and flowy drape, and this pair didn’t lose its shape, get wrinkly or fade after washing.

Not ideal but not dealbreakers: The neckline on this top is cut quite low, but that adds to the cooling factor and some might find it an attractive design aspect.

Boll & Branch

Our comfort rating (0 to 5): 4 | Sizes: XS to XXL | Colors: 3 total, including Night and Mineral | Materials: 100% organic cotton | Pockets: 1 shirt pocket, 2 pants pockets

Why we tested this pair: Boll & Branch is known for its soft luxury sheets, so we were curious if the pajamas, which are cut from a similarly cloud-like cotton, are as cozy against the skin.

What we loved: The fabric has the perfect weight for sleeping and keeps you at the right temperature all night (not too hot, not too cold). It’s made from long-staple cotton, and you can really feel the quality with your hands. The fit is true to size, and it didn’t feel too baggy or snug. The pearlescent buttons add a hint of luxury and the rounded collar adds a stylish touch.

Not ideal but not dealbreakers: The Mist color is a bit more grey-beige than depicted online and although it says the fabric is pre-shrunk, the set came out a tiny bit smaller after machine washing and drying.

Quince

Our comfort rating (0 to 5): 3 | Sizes: XS to XL | Colors: 5 total, including Indigo and Toasted Almond | Materials: 100% mulberry silk | Pockets: 2 pants pockets

Why we tested this pair: Most silk pajamas cost a pretty penny. Quince has impressed us numerous times for its high-quality designs at affordable prices.

What we loved: Quince’s flowy pants and matching long-sleeve pajama top are sumptuously comfortable, made from sustainable, washable Mulberry silk. The texture is more like velvet than silk in my opinion, and it has a naturally cooling sensation. The pants are cut with high side slits for ventilation—as is the top—and the fabric held up beautifully in the wash.

Not ideal but not dealbreakers: The pajamas don’t have quite the same slippery feel as other types of silk and the silhouette of the pants is a bit boxy.

LAKE

Our comfort rating (0 to 5): 4 | Sizes: XXS to XXL | Colors: 4 total, including Hydrangea and Parisian Green | Materials: 100% Pima cotton | Pockets: None

Why we tested this pair: Lake Pajamas consistently receive high marks for the quality of its Peruvian Pima cotton, which the brand refers to as the “cashmere of cotton.”

What we loved: This Pima bundle, which includes long pajamas pants, a short-sleeve top and shorts, is both cozy and cooling, making it a versatile, year-round option for most sleepers. The crew neck and high-waisted pant are smooth and silky—just note that the cotton shrinks a bit in length but Lake offers a Tall size option, if needed.

Not ideal but not dealbreakers: The only drawback is that the pants and shorts don’t have pockets.

L.L.Bean

Our comfort rating (0 to 5): 3.8 | Sizes: XS to XL (Regular, Petite, Plus, Tall) | Colors: 8 total, including Indigo Tartan and Light Gray Stewart | Materials: Cotton flannel | Pockets: 1 shirt pocket, 2 pants pockets

Why we tested this pair: Freeport, Maine-based, family-owned L.L. Bean has been creating quality sleepwear for decades. This cozy set is a bestseller.

What we loved: Forbes Vetted deputy editor and co-author of this story Kari Molvar wore this pair for years and years—until the flannel wore away on the knees, not from poor construction but simply from constant use. L.L.Bean’s flannel is brushed for softness and insulates by trapping warm air in the fluffy fibers, making this set ideal for chilly winter nights. Plus, it comes in all sorts of iconic plaids and is very reasonably priced.

Not ideal but not dealbreakers: These tend to run on the roomier side, so you may want to size down depending on your fit preference.

Lunya

Our comfort rating (0 to 5): 4.5 | Sizes: XS to XL | Colors: 3 total, including Tranquil White and Pastoral Blue | Materials: 100% mulberry silk | Pockets: 1 shirt pocket, 2 shorts pockets

Why we tested this pair: Lunya has gained a substantial following online for its washable silk offerings, which are designed to be as chic as they are comfortable.

What we loved: These pajamas are made of lusciously soft mulberry silk, which glides against your skin. The fit is oversized and drapey, making this set feel all the more luxurious. When paired with earrings or a necklace, the top looks elevated enough for remote work meetings. After multiple rounds in the wash, these pajamas have held up beautifully over time—however, we recommend letting them air dry rather than placing them in the dryer.

Not ideal but not dealbreakers: The shorts are on the shorter side, so you may want to toss on a robe before stepping outside to get the mail.

Petite Plume

Our comfort rating (0 to 5): 4.5 | Sizes: XS to XL | Colors: 5 total, including Navy and Camel | Materials: 100% Peruvian Pima cotton | Pockets: 1 shirt pocket, 2 pants pockets

Why we tested this pair: Petite Plume made our list of the best matching family Christmas pajamas, and its most recent collaboration with home brand Parachute caught our eye.

What we loved: Petite Plume is known for using exceptionally high-quality materials to make its pajamas. This timeless pair is made of 100% Peruvian Pima cotton, which feels incredible against the skin. What sets this brand apart, though, is its exceptional monogramming service: For an extra $20, you can have up to 10 characters embroidered onto your pajama top. There are eight font styles and dozens of thread colors, giving you the opportunity to add a truly special touch to your sleepwear. (Hint: A customized set makes a great gift idea.)

Not ideal but not dealbreakers: This pair did shrink a tiny bit after washing, which was to be expected from the 100% cotton material. If you like your pajamas on the roomier side, we recommend sizing up one size.

Sleepwear is a personal choice, and while there are many quality pajamas for women, everyone has different preferences. In addition to the picks we recommend above, we rounded up six highly-rated pairs that might also be a good match for you.

Amazon

Sizes: S to XXL | Colors: 30 total, including Grey Stars and Army Green | Materials: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

For times you want a soft, stretchy, easy-to-care-for pajama set, this pair is all that plus a great value. Choose from tie-dye, stars, florals, animal prints and solids. Reviewers say these fit true to size.

Cozy Earth

Sizes: XS to XXL | Colors: 3 total, including Spruce and Spice | Materials: 97% bamboo viscose, 3% spandex

If you’re a fan of more traditional pajamas, we highly recommend this slinky, stretchy set from Cozy Earth. Made of ribbed bamboo viscose blended with spandex, these manage to feel both lightweight and cozy at the same time. The Spice hue is gorgeous and vibrant in person, and it’s maintained its vibrancy even after multiple washings. This is a pair we recommend hanging up right after drying in order to keep wrinkles at bay.

Louise Misha

Sizes: XS to XL | Colors: 2 total, including Multico Stripes and Ivory Ench Fields | Materials: 100% organic cotton

Louise Misha is a Parisian brand known for its vintage-inspired, free-spirited designs, and this extends to its carefully curated lineup of pajamas. The Loulou Top (which we tried with the Melycia Pajama Pants) features a darling floral print that’s reminiscent of your grandmother’s curtains, but in the best possible way. Made of organic cotton, they’re light and soft. The cut is on the boxier side, so keep that in mind if you prefer your pajamas to be more form-fitting.

Lake Pajamas

Sizes: XXS to XXL | Colors: 6 total, including Driftwood Wide Stripe and Fog | Materials: 95% modal, 5% spandex

This pajama set from Lake offers a refreshing alternative to button-down or pullover designs. The flowy modal top wraps around your body and ties in the front, a design feature which is both stylish and functional. Just keep in mind that the top is on the looser side—we recommend layering it over a bralette or camisole for extra coverage, should you want it.

Dempsey & Dempsey

Sizes: XS to XXL | Colors: 18 total, including Howie White Green and Loxodonta Blue | Materials: 100% cotton

Desmond & Dempsey is the go-to pajama brand for feminine styles made from luxurious, high-quality fabrics finished with hand-painted prints. This set makes a statement with leopards, palm leaves and tropical hibiscus blooms adorning the long-sleeve top and shorts, which are beautiful enough to wear separately. Plus, the pajamas arrived in a lovely printed box so opening them felt extra special. The cotton is not as soft to the touch as some of the modal blends we tested, but it’s very light, which is great if you’re a hot sleeper.

Honeylove

Sizes: XS to 3X | Colors: 4 total, including Midnight and Pomegranate | Materials: 91% Tencel lyocell, 9% elastane; mesh: 88% nylon, 12% spandex

Honeylove is known for their well designed shapewear, and their sleepwear is equally comfortable and flattering. The BlissWear pajamas are made from Tencel, which is breathable, cooling and silky soft. Both the top and pants have mesh panels on the sides to increase ventilation and prevent night sweats.

At Forbes Vetted, our fashion team has extensively covered sleepwear topics, having tested robes, slippers, leggings and more.

To determine the best pajamas for women, we researched best-selling options then relied on first-hand testing to find the best options available right now.

Picking the perfect pair of pajamas comes down to personal preference, but there are a few factors you should always keep in mind. Here’s what to consider when shopping:

Prioritize how the pajamas feel when you put them on, most importantly. According to Dr. Harris, “Everything from your mattress to the pajamas you wear can have an impact on your physical health and sleep quality.” When you’re comfortable in bed, she says, you’ll ultimately be able to fall asleep more easily and be less likely to wake up frequently throughout the night.

“The current trend in pajamas is nightwear that’s both stylish and comfortable—meaning, women are buying sleepwear that’s flattering and feels good to the touch,” says Kaufman. “In recent years, pajama options have increased exponentially. Current popular styles include classic and tailored pajamas and nightgowns, chemise gowns with matching robes, sexy negligees, and cute camisole tops and matching shorts.”

In the end, though, the pajama style you choose is all about personal preference. Menswear-inspired pajamas tend to be popular as they’re roomy, somewhat structured, and often come in a variety of prints and fabrics—from classic cotton to silk to bamboo. If you like extra airiness, opt for a set with shorts or a nightgown or sleep shirt.

Fabric choice is key, so consider factors such as softness, stretch, breathability, warmth, ease of care, and how fabrics wear over time. Pajamas come in a wide variety of fabrics, including cotton, bamboo, flannel, silk, wool, fleece or other sleep performance blends. Bamboo, linen and light cottons tend to be popular in warm climates and seasons, while toastier fabrics like silk, fleece, thicker brushed cotton flannels or cashmere are mainstays in cooler areas or sleep environments.

We spoke with Preeti Gopinath, Director of MFA Textiles and Associate Professor at Parsons School of Fashion, who broke down some typical pajama fabrics for us:

Some people are hot sleepers and prefer short pajamas or sleep shirts. Others are cold sleepers and opt for full-length pajamas in heavier fabrics. Cotton separates are a good option if you like to alternate pajama length depending on the season or temperature. If you’re tall, bear in mind that popular sleepwear fabrics, such as Pima cotton, will shrink after they’re washed so you may want to size up for length.

After testing over a dozen pajama sets, we named the Boll & Branch Soft Knit Long Sleeve Pajama Set as the most comfortable option overall. Made of 100% organic cotton, these pajamas feel cozy without causing you to overheat. Another pick that earned high marks for comfort is the Tommy John Downtime Set, which includes an ultra-soft henley top and silky, tag-free jogger pants.

The best pajamas are made of breathable, soft fabrics: We recommend 100% Pima cotton, bamboo viscose, modal, lyocell and silk, which are all skin-friendly. If you prefer a little stretch in your PJs, look for a set that’s blended with spandex or elastane. Keep in mind that higher-quality materials often result in more expensive pajamas. If you’re on a budget, you can opt for a pair made with polyester, but they may wear out more quickly than a set made of cotton or silk.

The warmest pajamas for fall and winter months are those that keep you cozy without causing you to sweat and overheat under the covers. The L.L. Bean Flannel Pajamas are a cool weather favorite because they trap heat in the brushed fibers. Many people also like pajamas with long sleeves and pants for winter, such as the Eberjey Gisele Long PJ Set and the Cozy Earth Bamboo Jogger Pant Set.

We re-evaluated and updated our top PJ picks based on further testing. We also tested a handful of new styles and added two more recommendations to this list.