What’s The Difference Between Sleepwear And Loungewear?

After more than a year spent mostly at home, it’s of little surprise if you’ve mostly been wearing your pajamas instead of the other clothes in your closet. Yet as things start to get back to the way they were, so should your wardrobe. Don’t get us wrong, we love women’s sleepwear as much as you do. And while we’re all for comfort, let’s take a look at another category of clothing that’s gotten its fair share of the spotlight: loungewear.

So, should you get loungewear or sleepwear? What’s the difference and why should you care?

What to Wear: When and Where?

Sleepwear is exclusively for bedtime, while loungewear takes you from your living room to out of your front door. By definition, sleepwear is reserved for those much-needed eight hours of rest you get every night. Some may argue that sleepwear and loungewear are interchangeable. However, a good rule of thumb is the doorbell test: if you feel the need to change before answering, that probably means you’re in sleepwear instead of loungewear.

Meanwhile, loungewear is essentially clothes that are made for maximum comfort during your leisure time. Gone are the days where you wouldn’t be caught dead outside of your home in your so-called house clothes. Indeed, loungewear has evolved from the tank tops and sweatpants you would usually reserve for a day at home. These days, you can buy coordinated ensembles with tailored cuts that can take you anywhere from a grocery run to maybe even coffee with friends.

Aside from the comfort and ease that loungewear can provide, these kinds of clothes can easily be mixed and matched as well as dressed up or down. Pair your favorite linen pants with a button-down top and some platforms that can easily take you from reading a book on your couch to brunch with the girls.

Not yet back in the office? No need to feel strange in a corporate top paired with pajama bottoms while you’re taking important video calls. Go for coordinated loungewear for those days when you have to switch on your camera. This look will be presentable enough while still keeping you relaxed and fuss-free.

Fabric, Cut, and Style: How to Choose?

From your favorite cotton pajamas that only seem to get softer with time to that sexy night slip for days when you may have company, sleepwear comes in different shapes, fabrics, and cuts. A common trend is sleepwear made out of non-irritating fabrics as well as just the right amount of garter. The latter, in particular, ensures you can move freely without any restrictions.

When it comes to choosing sleepwear, opt for breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics. Pure cotton and bamboo lyocell fabrics are often popular choices. The last thing you want is night sweats, so go for an option that will keep you cool and relaxed as you catch some much-needed z’s.

Another fan favorite is sleepwear made from silk. Aside from the feeling of complete luxury, few things can rival the happiness of slipping on a pair of silky satin pajamas after completing a full skincare routine. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for basic colors or crazy prints, or choose between a cotton set or a silk ensemble. Whatever you pick, what’s important is that your sleepwear should keep you snug as a bug throughout the night.

Loungewear, on the other hand, tends to come in separates that you can easily mix and match. Whereas sleepwear can include loud prints and bright colors, loungewear typically follows a more neutral palette for effortless “any time of the day” chic. From black, white, and gray to camel, cream, and khaki, dress your loungewear up or down with accessories and the right footwear depending on what you have planned for the day. While sleepwear opts for a looser fit, loungewear tends to have more tailored cuts that provide an added layer of finesse. 

Underwear Required: Do You Have to Wear a Bra?

Thinking about whether or not you need to wear a bra with these types of outfits may seem silly at first, but it’s a completely valid question to ask.

Simply put, with sleepwear, you don’t necessarily have to put on a bra, since you’re likely only wearing your outfit in the privacy of your own home. With loungewear, however, you’ll definitely want to put a bra on. The last thing you want is a nip slip as you step onto your front lawn to grab the morning paper. Some loungewear tops even come with built-in padding, so you really have nothing to worry about as you get through your day. 

These days, comfort is no longer associated with baggy bottoms and shapeless tops. Loungewear and sleepwear have transformed not only the way we dress, but also the way we move and carry ourselves. Whatever your preference is, you’ll be sure to find sets that suit your style, mood, and budget. At the end of the day, the most important thing to consider is how you feel in your clothes. Shrug off the embarrassment and put on a pair that gives you the breezy confidence you need to face whatever comes your way.

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