11 Pretty Nightgowns That’ll Make You Ditch Pajama Shorts This Summer
Sleepwear that will keep you cool during hot nights.
I learned to pack smartly while studying abroad in college, and the no-fuss, space-saving sleepwear I took everywhere was a cotton nightgown. My friends teased me endlessly for my “grandma pajamas” during those four months abroad, but I didn’t care. I will admit my three-quarter-length sleeve, teal nightgown wasn’t the cutest choice, but it hardly took up any space and was way more comfortable than constricting shorts. I stand by my decision to wear nightgowns, and now, my friends have revoked their teasing and are jumping on the trend themselves.
During quarantine, nightgowns have risen from the dead, flooding Instagram and TikTok feeds with women wearing satin nightgowns either posing moodily or lounging on couches. Women are resurrecting the old fashioned sleepwear with a modern twist—while maintaining the comfort that makes them so appealing. Lightweight and breezy, nightgowns are perfect for hot summer nights and are much prettier than your old oversized T-shirts.
From satin to cotton textiles and long-sleeve to tank top silhouettes, shop the best nightgowns for women below.
Best satin nightgown:
Choose from 10 colors—like navy, blush, lavender, or baby blue—for this PJ Harlow Lindsay Satin Nightgown. A racerback cut and breezy fit make this silk nightgown ultra comfortable and flattering.
Best sheer nightgown:
Sheer nightgowns are not only super lightweight and sweat-proof, but they make for sexy sleepwear, too. Choose between white and black for this sexy number. This see-through nightgown features an open back, lacy trimming, and a tulip skirt, making for romantic sleepwear.
Best cotton nightgown:
Eileen West knows a thing or two about creating comfortable and cute clothing, and this breezy sleep dress is no exception. The delicate pintucks, sweetheart neckline, and touches of lace make this cotton nightgown a classic.
Best black nightgown:
Fans of the classic LBD will love this lacy black nightgown. And if you’re daring enough, you can wear this baby outside of the house, too. Pair this eco-conscious H&M pick with a silky jacket and heels—then slip straight into bed when you get home.
Best maternity nightgown:
Tired of waking up hot and sweaty? This nightgown can help. The lightweight cotton is so perfect for keeping a mama-to-be cool that she’ll want to wear it even after giving birth. No, seriously—the super stretchy fabric is ideal for breastfeeding.
Best long-sleeve nightgown:
The collar, front pocket, and buttons on this J.Crew nightshirt make it perfect for preppy sleepers. But the comfort and breathability of this sustainable cotton nightgown make it an appealing choice for anyone, TBH.
Best short-sleeve nightgown:
You know your favorite oversized T-shirt to sleep in? Well this Intimissimi pick the is like that but even better. The ultra soft cotton makes this nightie super cozy and breathable, and we love that it comes in five neutral colorways, too.
Best floral nightgown:
Small details—like the lacy neckline and low-cut back—make this floral pick a keeper. We can already see ourselves dreaming sweet dreams in this cotton nightgown.
Best long nightgown:
Channel the best rich mom vibes with this long, breezy nightgown. Available in blue (pictured here), pink, and wheat, this plunging nightgown is ideal for warm weather and beachside vacations.
Best plus-size nightgown:
A classic mulberry tone is perfect for those flirty days and nights. Lacy details, adjustable straps, and an open back make this babydoll nightgown a must-have in your wardrobe. Find it in sizes XL to 3XL.
Best button-down nightgown:
Have you ever stolen an oversized button-down shirt from a man in your life to sleep in? Same. This striped nightgown offers that same comfort, but in a faded pink that’s a little more feminine than your man’s shirt. Plus, we love that it’s available in sizes XS to 4XL.
