Creating the ultimate serene sleep space involves more than picking out the right bedding, turning the lights down low, and setting your thermostat to cool. What you wear to bed can also affect your sleep quality one way or another, and we’re not just referring to the style of pajamas. There’s also a hierarchy of sleepwear fabrics, and silk pajamas reign supreme.
Why silk pajamas?
While not necessarily the most budget-friendly material on the market, silk anything—be it a sleep mask, a pillowcase, or bedding—is pure luxury.
Silk is made from natural protein fiber, is sultry-smooth to the touch, and emits a kind of luster that comes from the fabric’s triangular prism structure. Not to mention, silk is one of the most durable textiles, so even though it’s a splurge, you’re paying for something that will last you a long, long time. In that sense, silk is also a sustainable pick.
And certified sleep consultant and founder of Live Love Sleep Kaley Medina says that the bedroom is where silk does its best work. “Finding the right sleepwear is one of many components for a good night’s sleep and sleep hygiene, as being comfortable will help you fall asleep faster at bedtime and stay asleep for long periods throughout the night without wakings,” Medina tells mbg.
The best silk PJs for sleep.
The best pajamas, Medina explains, are comfortable, nonrestrictive, and loose-fitting. Silk checks all three boxes, and then some. It’s also very breathable (a plus for hot sleepers), temperature-regulating, and cool. “As adults, most of us sleep best in a cool room with the temperature between 60 to 67 degrees and pajamas that keep our skin warm,” Medina explains. “Silk can help your body get warmer or cooler as needed throughout the night.”
So what are the best silk pajamas to promote sleep in 2022? We’ve gone down a rabbit hole of obsessing over customer reviews on comfort, fit, and look, analyzing sustainability commitments and reading up on material sourcing to bring you this list of the crème de la crème of silk PJ sets that you can feel great about falling asleep in this year and beyond.
Best overall: Lunya Washable Silk Sleepwear Set
Lunya prides itself on offering shoppers the “anti-old shirt”—you know, the cropped band-tee or oversize top adorned with the logo of your alma mater you sleep, exercise, and clean the bathroom in. Its products aren’t the type of sleepwear you just throw on; each piece is intentionally made to be intentionally worn, resulting in an ultra-luxe lounge-to-sleep (and vice versa) experience.
The brand’s Washable Silk Set is its bestseller. It’s available in seven colors (two of which are special-edition) and comes in a wide range of sizes, from XS to 2X. It’s made from 100% washable silk and made colorful with bluesign-approved dyes (guaranteeing the pieces are safe for dyehouse workers, those wearing them, and the Earth), are thermoregulated to support your slumber, and feature low-back ventilation for extra comfort. Plus, the set has received 2,066 reviews on the Lunya website, adding up to an average of 4.5 out of a possible 5-star rating from wearers who confirm it’s comfortable, breathable, and—dare we mention—a “sexy self-care addition” to your pajama drawer.
Best sleep dress: Soma Washable Silk Chemise
Take it from this writer who swears by all things Soma-made, the brand’s silk chemise is well worth its just-shy of $170 price point. It’s available in sizes XS up to XXL and comes in a beautiful creamy beige hue. It’s also machine washable, ensuring easy care, and features adjustable back straps to ensure your optimal comfort through the entire night. My only caveat with the silk gown is it doesn’t come in more colors. Otherwise, it’s breathable, comfortable, and oh-so-elegant. It’s a must for your grown-up PJ collection.
