Why Men and Women Are Returning to Classic Sleepwear
Nightshirts have quietly become a sleepwear staple once again—favoured for their ease, comfort, and timeless appeal. Once associated with vintage novels and Victorian bedrooms, the nightshirt has made a confident comeback for both men and women who want a simpler, more breathable way to sleep.
So, what exactly is a nightshirt, and how does it differ from a nightgown? Should you wear anything underneath? And how do you know if a nightshirt is right for you? Let’s explore the essentials of this classic sleepwear style.
What Is the Male Version of a Nightgown?
For men, the traditional alternative to a nightgown is the nightshirt. It serves a similar purpose: a single-piece garment worn for sleep, but cut more like a long shirt than a flowing gown. Typically collarless or with a rounded collar, nightshirts for men fall to the knee or mid-calf and offer unrestricted movement while sleeping.
Our men’s nightshirts, like the Crisp Cotton Nightshirt in St James Red Pinstripe, are made from premium cotton shirting fabric—lightweight yet structured, breathable and durable. Finished with refined details like piped cuffs and a buttoned placket, these are nightshirts that feel as polished as they do comfortable.
What Is the Difference Between a Nightgown and a Nightshirt?
The main difference lies in style and silhouette. A nightgown (or nightdress) is often associated with a looser, flowing fit and is more commonly worn by women. It may feature lace, embroidery, or more feminine detailing. A nightshirt, on the other hand, takes inspiration from traditional men’s shirts—with features like collars, breast pockets, and a button-down neckline—but in a longer cut for sleeping.
For women who prefer a smarter, structured shape, our women’s crisp cotton nightshirts offer the best of both worlds. Designed in classic stripes and gingham prints, they provide room to move without sacrificing shape or style. Soft against the skin and made from 100% breathable cotton, they’re ideal for warmer nights or for lounging around on slow mornings.
When selecting the right nightwear, it comes down to fabric, fit, and lifestyle. If you tend to overheat at night, look for lightweight natural fibres like 100% cotton or bamboo, which are breathable and moisture-wicking. If you want the ease of movement without the hassle of multiple pieces, a nightshirt is a low-fuss, stylish option. And if you enjoy structured yet relaxed loungewear, crisp cotton nightshirts offer that smart-yet-soft balance that works beautifully from bed to breakfast. Both men’s and women’s styles in our range are made with the same premium cotton used for our private-label Jermyn Street production—crafted to last and easy to care for.
Do You Wear Anything Under a Nightshirt?
This is entirely down to personal preference. Some people wear underwear under their nightshirt, while others prefer to go without for maximum comfort and breathability. Men may choose to wear boxers or briefs underneath, while women might pair theirs with a soft bra or full briefs—though many find the relaxed fit and length of our nightshirts enough to wear solo. Since nightshirts are designed with modesty and movement in mind, you can feel comfortable however you wear them. If you’re lounging before bedtime or making your morning coffee, our generously cut nightshirts provide just the right amount of coverage to wear confidently around the house.
A Classic That Never Went Out of Style
Nightshirts may feel like a nostalgic choice, but they’re enjoying a well-earned resurgence thanks to modern fabric upgrades and cleaner silhouettes. Whether you’re drawn to the tailored stripes of our men’s red pinstripe nightshirt or the soft gingham of our women’s nightwear collection, there’s something wonderfully comforting about slipping into a garment designed for pure ease. Best of all, our nightshirts are now part of the summer sale, making it the perfect time to rediscover this classic piece of nightwear at a reduced price. Explore our full range of nightshirts today and discover how comfort and tradition can meet in the most wearable of ways.
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
