Style File: Pyjama party

At this time of year, snoozing becomes the national sport. Handy, then, that pyjamas have been given a luxurious new look, says Emma Akbareian

Emma Akbareian
Wednesday 18 December 2013 01:00 GMT
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The notion that pyjamas are only to be worn in their intended setting – the bedroom – is an outdated one, thanks largely to the catwalk’s love affair with these languid clothes. Stella McCartney, Jonathan Saunders and Louis Vuitton have all presented their own takes on nightclothes and demonstrated their increasing relevance within the wardrobe.

Given this shiny new makeover, it’s no surprise that there’s an increasing demand for nightwear that’s a little bit special. You don’t need to be reclining on a chaise longue with a glass of champagne in hand to know that tatty old trackies and a faded vest-top don’t have quite the same appeal as some of these more lavish styles.

Olivia von Halle is to pyjamas what Rolex is to watches – premium, on the pricy side, but above all, luxurious. In the two years since von Halle started her brand, it has become the name to know in nightwear. In her quest for more stylish pyjamas, von Halle cites as her muse Coco Chanel and the glamorous loungewear she wore in the 1920s.

This season, it’s the Orient that serves as inspiration for the collection, with Art Deco patterns appearing on decadent jewelcoloured separates and kimono-style gowns. If that all sounds a little bold, there’s also a softer version of the style in a pretty lilac shade, created exclusively for net-a-porter.com.

Also in the marketplace for premium PJs is Poplin – classic and simple, but with twists such as neon piping and personalisation – from the writer Lucy Guinness. Aloe is another label with luxury lounging at its heart, and a price-tag to match.

On the high street, Rosie Huntington- Whiteley’s lingerie line for Autograph at Marks & Spencer continues to win fans. This season, the model has turned her attention to nightwear, with luxurious cashmere wraps, satin nightgowns and silk separates.

Those on a budget may balk at the prices of the above, but there are plenty more purse-friendly options, too. Whether you prefer mannish, silky separates, a lace-trimmed négligée or even winceyette winter warmers, there is plenty on the high street to inspire an early night.

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