Why Do Men Wear Nightshirts?
While you might associate nightshirts with vintage novels, grandfathers, or old-fashioned portraits, there’s a reason they’ve stood the test of time — and why more and more men are choosing nightshirts over traditional pyjamas today.
In a world of fast fashion and synthetic blends, men are rediscovering the elegance, ease, and comfort of a well-made nightshirt, especially those crafted in lightweight cotton or breathable bamboo. At British Boxers, we’ve seen a growing love for this heritage garment, especially in spring and summer when nightshirts offer unmatched airflow and ease.
So why do men wear nightshirts — and why might you want to consider one for yourself? Let’s take a look.
A Brief History of Men’s Nightshirts
The men’s nightshirt dates back centuries — long before two-piece pyjamas became the norm. From the Middle Ages through to the 19th century, men (and women) slept in long, loose-fitting gowns that offered modesty, warmth, and practicality. Back then, the nightshirt wasn’t just sleepwear — it was essential for hygiene in a time when regular laundry and bathing weren’t guaranteed.
By the 1800s and into the early 20th century, nightshirts were considered standard men’s sleepwear — usually made of cotton, linen, or flannel, and designed to reach below the knee. Over time, pyjama sets became more fashionable, especially under the influence of Eastern styles, but the nightshirt never truly disappeared.
Today, nightshirts are experiencing a quiet revival — not just for their heritage feel, but for their unbeatable comfort and ease.
Why Modern Men Are Returning to Nightshirts
One of the key reasons men wear nightshirts is freedom of movement. Unlike trousers or tight waistbands, a nightshirt allows the body to move naturally during sleep. There’s no elastic digging in, no rolling up at the waistband — just a soft, breathable layer that covers you without constricting.
For warm-weather sleeping, a nightshirt is an ideal choice. British Boxers’ men’s nightshirts, made in lightweight cotton or naturally temperature-regulating bamboo, help you stay cool, dry and comfortable all night long. The loose cut encourages airflow, while the breathable fabric prevents that sweaty, clinging feeling often associated with synthetic sleepwear.
Nightshirts are also a go-to for men who prefer a simplified bedtime routine. One garment, one easy throw-on, and you're set for the evening — whether you’re relaxing before bed, padding around the house in the morning, or reading the paper on a slow Sunday.
Comfort Without Compromise
It’s easy to assume that a nightshirt might look or feel old-fashioned. But modern styles — like those in the British Boxers collection — have done away with anything stuffy or dated. Our men’s nightshirts are designed with a contemporary cut, clean lines, and subtle piping, making them just as stylish as they are functional.
They’re particularly popular with men who value natural fabrics, dislike sleeping in trousers, or simply want something cooler and easier than a two-piece pyjama set. They also offer more coverage than just sleeping in underwear, making them great for shared households, weekends away, or those moments when the doorbell rings before you’ve properly dressed.
That depends entirely on your preference. Many men love the structure and familiarity of pyjama trousers and shirts, especially in colder weather. But when summer hits — or when comfort becomes a priority — nightshirts offer a breezier, lighter alternative that’s hard to beat. They also eliminate the issue of tangled legs or shifting waistbands at night — a common complaint for light sleepers. If you’ve ever woken up with your pyjama bottoms twisted or uncomfortably bunched, a nightshirt could be the answer. British Boxers’ cotton nightshirts offer just the right amount of warmth and structure, while bamboo nightshirts are incredibly soft and stretch slightly with your body — making them ideal for hot sleepers or warmer climates.
Who Wears Nightshirts Today?
The short answer? All kinds of men. Some discover them later in life and wonder why they didn’t try one sooner. Others prefer them because of sensory sensitivities, or because they’re simply more comfortable than anything else they’ve worn to bed. At British Boxers, we see nightshirt fans from all walks of life: young professionals looking for breathable sleepwear, older gentlemen who remember their popularity from childhood, and men of all ages who just want to sleep better. Nightshirts also make fantastic gifts — thoughtful, elegant, and always useful. And because we design ours with a tailored yet easy-going fit, they work just as well for relaxed loungewear as they do for bedtime.
Rediscovering the Nightshirt
So, why do men wear nightshirts? Because they’re simple, timeless, and incredibly comfortable. In a world that constantly demands more, the nightshirt offers less — less fuss, less restriction, and less overheating — while still delivering more freedom, more ease, and more style than you might expect. At British Boxers, our men’s nightshirts celebrate tradition without sacrificing comfort. Made from natural fabrics like crisp cotton and breathable bamboo, they’re perfect for quiet evenings, summer nights, and those peaceful, drawn-out mornings we all deserve.
Further Reading
The Comfiest Pants You’ll Ever Own? Let’s Talk Full Briefs — And Why Bamboo Might Just Be Better Than Cotton
Why Bamboo Briefs Could Be the Healthiest Choice for Men – At Any Age
