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Now, I know what you’re all thinking: wearing nightwear as daywear is nothing new—at least, it has been since the ’90s. That may be true, but what’s different is that this season there has been an explosion of options, thanks to fashion influencers embracing the romantic nightdress trend like never before (though, it’s not exactly a given). Bridgerton Will it work again?.
A dream solution for a stylish wardrobe during the heatwaves, these dresses are described as nightdresses by the brands, or are designed to look and feel like nightdresses themselves. Loved by the likes of Kate Moss, silk slips are easy to wear with sandals for summer parties, under a blazer for the office, or over a polo-neck sweater in cooler months. There are also light, floaty styles inspired by nightgowns of all eras, often featuring Victorian-inspired lace trims, pretty embroidery and girly frills. What all nightgown dresses have in common is that they are comfortable and unabashedly feminine, even when the temperatures soar.
One only needs to scroll through fashion Instagram to see that negligees are becoming more and more popular. I think they look especially cool when paired with fisherman sandals, loafers, or chunky, “ugly” shoes, like my new shiny black Birks that I recently bought. The key is the edgy, heavy contrast with the delicate fabric, like Alexa Chung in her trendy butter yellow dress at Glastonbury. Chunky jewelry also pairs well with a negligee, making it look cooler and less pretentious.
Nightgowns are also part of the bohemian revival, with poster girl Sienna Miller recently attending the Los Angeles premiere of a new Western film in a beautiful cream maxi dress from Chloé’s Spring 2025 collection. Horizon: An American SagaThe silk charmeuse, lace inserts, ruffles on the bodice, and tiered skirt make this dress my favorite summer red carpet dress so far, and note that the star paired it with knee-length black boots, a sign that we’ll all be rocking this style once fall hits.
If you’re looking for a nightgown to buy now and love forever, another great thing about this trend is that it’s vintage-inspired and timeless. Brands like Doen (shop Alexa’s dress here), RIXO, Damson Madder, Sleeper and If Only If are some of your first picks, but don’t overlook more affordable favourites like Marks & Spencer. A classic M&S puff-sleeve nightgown sold out for the holidays last summer, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s lingerie line has a new satin-print chemise that we’re snapping up before it’s gone. We definitely won’t be saving it for the bedroom.
Considering the rise of chic, comfortable loungewear and athleisure over the last decade, it’s no wonder the negligee has really taken off. I love that the negligee has a touch of intimacy and sexiness to it, while still looking modest. It has a rebellious vibe that says, “I shouldn’t wear this.” But don’t worry, you’re not the only one who wears one to stroll the streets, picnic in the park, or sip cocktails on the beach. Pajamas, aka “outfits,” are already everywhere. Just wear them in a way that makes it clear that you didn’t literally just jump out of bed and you’ll look perfectly put together.
So, are you ready to buy our favorite nightdresses? Ready, go ahead and add them to your basket…
Rosie for M&S satin print chemise
The fact that this figure is restricted to the nightwear department is criminal but I think M&S knows we will “get rid” of it.
Damson Madder Edith Vintage Midi Dress
For all you period drama fans, don’t miss this new midi dress, which features adorable little bows and what the brand calls “nightgown” ruffles. Now, where’s Mr. Darcy…?
RIXO Clarice Midi Dress
I want the Clarice dress in all colors, but the navy polka dot one is at the top of my wish list (since the leopard print one is sold out). It would make a lovely wedding guest dress.
By Iris x Douceur Rowan Dress
Our editor-in-chief Sarah Tomczak owns this gorgeous dress, which features shimmery gold stripes, gathered sleeves, and lace detailing. “It’s the perfect dress for the holidays and beyond!” she says.
IF ONLY IF L linen nightdress
A new addition to If Only If’s popular range, this linen nightgown is a blessing when the heat is intense and a cool throw on for sunny days off.
Desmond & Dempsey Juggs Nightgown
Nightwear brand Desmond & Dempsey has some cool printed negligees, including this fun jaguar, and floral styles on a black background.
Dawn Grace Dress
We love everything about Alexa Chung’s Glastonbury dress, which is from our favorite bohemian California cool-girl brand.
Sleeper Rose Atlanta Linen Dress
Our dream garden party dress is from luxury loungewear label Sleeper : no other brand blurs the lines between day and night so expertly.
Fawn honeysuckle nightdress
Sarah also counts this negligee in her collection (yes, we’d love to plunder her wardrobe, too). It’s the epitome of 1930s glamour and looks super stylish when paired with simple brown sliders, as she wears in the Instagram photo above. “Despite being run by two of the nicest South East Londoners I know, Faune has always felt so romantic and French!” she says.
M&S Pure Cotton Broderie Nightdress
I’ll be bringing this lovely embroidered negligee for my next beach getaway, and it comes in a lovely navy color too.
