The 13 Best Silk Pajamas for the Ultimate Beauty Sleep

Lunya Washable Silk Set scored our best overall silk pajamas for its cool touch and washable fabric that feels amazing on skin

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silk pjs

InStyle / Joy Kim

When it comes to sleep, comfort is everything. But how about a dash of luxury, too? Slipping into silk before bed will make you feel instantly fancy, striking the perfect balance between cozy and posh. On top of that, it's known for being hypoallergenic and thermoregulating. Basically, it will be gentle on your skin and hair while also keeping you comfortable.

"Silk, unlike cotton, has much less friction," which calms the skin instead of causing irritation, says Dr. Shereene Idriss, Board Certified Dermatologist and founder of Idris Dermatology in New York City. "It also is much less absorbent than cotton, so it won't rob your skin of the moisture that cotton so desperately wants," she adds.

But not all silk pajamas are created equal. To make sure you're getting your money's worth, we scoured the internet to find the best silk pajamas out there, from budget buys to gorgeous splurge-worthy sets. Lunya Washable Silk Set scored our best overall pick for its airy cut made from conveniently washable silk.

Best Overall

Lunya Washable Silk Set

Lunya Washable Silk Set

Nordstrom

What We Love: The washable set uses a safer, sustainable dye process that eliminates any irritating chemicals.

What We Don't Love: The bottoms may be too short for some.

Even though this set looks fairly simple, the deliciously soft and airy fabric will surprise you. Not only is it like a dream for your skin, but the thermoregulating fabric will keep you cool while you sleep. The brand follows a sustainable, eco-conscious manufacturing process that skips any harmful chemicals that make the whole coloring process safer for everyone involved — from the workers doing the dye job, to the happy customers snuggling up in the jammies, and the planet. Best of all, you can simply throw in the wash, instead of taking it to the dry cleaner as most silk clothes require.

Price at time of publish: $188

Material: Silk | Sizes: XS-2X | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Splurge

Olivia von Halle Lila Lazaro Silk Satin Pajama Set

Olivia von Halle Lila Lazaro Silk Satin Pajama Set

Olivia von Halle

What We Love: At 19 momme silk, these are even finer and softer than your average silk materials.
What We Don’t Love:
While you can machine wash them, they come with complicated directions.

The finer things in life come in 19 momme silk, which is considered as one of the highest quality luxury silks because it has a higher thread count, similar to how cotton is evaluated, making it softer and more durable than your average silk, which typically ranges between 11 to 16 momme. With an equally stunning leopard print design scattered across the loungewear, these PJ’s can be shown off during the afterhour cocktail lounge before skidding to bed. 

The founder — who worked on Louis Vuitton, Gucci Group, and Lamborghini before launching her own brand — noticed that luxurious events and parties were put to shame at the end of the night when people turned to  lackluster pajamas, instead of allowing the glamour to seep into their bedtime routine. Anyone who breathes luxury should have the opportunity to rest in it during all their time spent in bed. The extra fine silk is sure to feel glorious on the skin, but when it comes time to wash it, things get a little complicated. You will need specific silk detergent, machine wash at 30 degrees on its own, and iron on a cool setting. It may save you some time to just bring it to dry cleaning instead.  

Price at time of publish: $660

Material: Silk | Size: XS - XL | Machine Washable: Yes

olivia-von-halle-lila-zeno-silk-satin-pajama-set

InStyle / Joy Kim

Best Budget

Quince Washable Silk Pajama Pants

Quince 100% Washable Silk Pajama Pants

Quince

What We Love: The side slits on the pants make them especially flowy and comfortable.

What We Don't Love: The sizing runs rather large given the loose, flowy fit.

The low prices for these silk PJs seems fake, but Quince offers such low prices because they sell products directly from the factory to the consumer. And their designs are some our favorites, too. For starters, the featured side slit on the pants adds an airy, lightness that makes you feel like you're gliding as you move around in them. The 100 percent Mulberry silk fibers are hypo-allergenic and naturally thermo-regulating, which help them calm and soothe skin while you sleep or lounge. Added bonus: the color options are dyed without any hazardous chemicals. But buyers be warned: these PJs sell out fast, further proving the obsession is very real. If you're interested in it, we suggest jumping on it

Price at time of publish: $80

Material: Silk | Sizes: XS- XL | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Plus-Size

Karen Mabon Still Life Silk Pyjama Set

Karen Mabon Still Life Silk Pyjama Set

Karen Mabon

What We Love: The vibrant, cheerful patterns are instant mood boosters.

What We Don't Love: This set requires a trip to the dry cleaner.

Apart from being one of the comfiest sleepwear sets you will ever step into, this striking set is also a work of art. The patterns displayed are a nod to some of the designer's favorite artists, like still life painter Mary Fedden, who is known for her unique and meticulous mix of colors and patterns which deliver striking effects. This stunning set features a colorful arrangement of flowers, vases, and objects you might find in an enchanted garden, which make slipping into this pajama set feel extra special. And best of all, all of Karen Mabon's sets go up to a 5XL, making it the most inclusive set on this list.

Price at time of publish: $195

Material: Silk | Sizes: XS- 5XL | Machine Washable: No

Best Traditional

Sleepy Jones Washable Silk Marina Pajama Set

Sleepy Jones Washable Silk Marina Pajama Set

Sleepy Jones

What We Love: The classic style makes it fashionable for inside and outside the bedroom.

What We Don't Love: The sizing runs on the smaller side.

The oversized, button-down top and slinky drawstring pant are as cozy as they get. The white piping along the pocket, cuffs, and trim give this sleep top a more traditional style that can be easily dressed up for a fashionable and extra comfortable night out. The adjustable drawstring pants run on the smaller size, so we recommend sizing up to capture the true comfort and flowy movement this silky set has to offer. Our favorite part: despite the delicate feel of the ultra-soft, silky fabric, it's also machine washable making it equal parts comfortable and convenient.

Price at time of publish: $198

Material: Silk | Sizes: XXS- XXL | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Shorts Set

Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Short PJ Set

Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Short PJ Set

Eberjey

What We Love: The eco-conscious textile is thoughtfully designed and produced.

What We Don't Love: The sizing and color options are more limited.

When Oprah coins something her favorite, we're quick to jump on the bandwagon. And in the case of Eberjey pajamas, she did not steer us wrong. Known for cozy sleepwear, Eberjey implements the same high-end craftsmanship to their silk PJs as they do their best-selling modal. Not only is it made from high-grade momme silk that feels delicious on skin, but also Eberjey's silk is a natural, biodegradable textile, so you can cozy up with a clean conscience.

Price at time of publish: $258

Material: Silk | Sizes: XS- XL | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Short Nightgown

Gooseberry Slip Dress

Gooseberry Slip Dress

Gooseberry

What We Love: It makes for an ideal summer sleepwear.
What We Don’t Love:
The cups might be too small for those with larger bra sizes.

For something a little more intimate, the slip dress from Gooseberry might tickle your fancy. The mini dress features subtle lace linings around the soft wireless cups. The 100 percent silk material drapes glamorously around your body, while delicate, adjustable straps hold the little showstopper up. The back also has a little peek-a-boo detail midway down. For summer nights, this piece is ideal to sleep in — it’s short, loose-fitting, and breathable. That being said, we can’t confirm just how comfortable the bra portion is, especially because the cups might not fit those with larger bra sizes properly.

Price at time of publish: $250

Material: Silk | Size: XS - L | Machine Washable: No

Best Short Robe

Slip Peony Short Robe

Slip Peony Short Robe

Slip

What We Love: The robe comes in lots of vibrant colors, like fuschia and gold.

What We Don't Love: The steep price tag.

The price may cause a double take, but in all fairness, so will the fabric: you can feel the quality the second your hand glides over the high-grade, long-fiber mulberry silk. The fabric is one of the thickest, shiniest, and softest of the bunch and one that will leave a lasting impression. Pair that with the wide color assortment — we're partial to the striking fuchsia shade — and you'll smile every time you wrap yourself in this luxurious robe.

Price at time of publish: $350

Material: Silk | Sizes: One size | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Long Robe

Nap Silk Robe Set

Nap Silk Robe Set

Nap

What We Love: The bunched up sleeves, low back cami, and bows on the hips all come together to deliver a dreamy three-piece set.
What We Don’t Love:
You can’t machine wash this piece.

This isn’t your average robe: Rather than a belted piece with a cross-over front, this drapey piece features a straight cut and extra long sleeves, which bunch up at the cuff by a string. The gown-like robe is also part of a three piece set, which includes silk shorts and a cami. You’ll notice that the cami has a mildly open back feature, juxtaposed with the curtain-like drape in the front. For a better depiction of the set, click over to the yellow and baby pink versions, which show you how the high waisted bottoms have adjustable drawstrings tied into a bow on either side of your hips. The overall look is truly dreamy, to say the least, and will invite you to spend late nights and early mornings leisurely strolling around in it as well. Just note that you can only hand wash this piece in cold water, so make sure to avoid throwing it into the machine at all costs.

Price at time of publish: $499

Material: Silk | Size: S-XL | Machine Washable: No

Best Teddy

Agent Provocateur Christi Teddy

Agent Provocateur Christi Teddy

Agent Provocateur

What We Love: There’s a bit of elastane woven into the fabric, which will make the one piece more fitting on the body.
What We Don’t Love:
You can only dry clean this piece.

Made by hand in the north of France, this sultry Christi Teddy pajama has several stunning lace details sewn across the onepiece. Across the chest, down the front of the body, trimmed at the hem of the pants, and finely spewed across the back, you will notice classic French roses laced into the silk fabric. The work of art is not only stunning in design, but flattering on the body as well – the cups frame your chest, while the waistline adds an hourglass shape. The pants flare out to further give you a little shape as well. The body of the one piece has a bit of elastane woven in as well, so you’ll find it mildly stretchy and easy to move in. Of course, a delicate piece like this will require some professional dry cleaners to handle it with care. 

Price at time of publish: $540

Material: Silk, elastane | Size: 6 - 14 | Machine Washable:  No

Best Pants

Intimissimi Silk Satin Pajama Pants

Intimissimi Silk Satin Pajama Pants

Intimissimi

What We Love: They feel luxuriously soft on the skin.
What We Don’t Love:
They’re a little short on tall people. 

Ever since InStyle writer Bianca Kratky received one of the Intimissimi silk pajamas to test out, she hasn’t stopped testing, and testing, and testing… okay, living in the luxuriously soft fabric. The pants come in eight classic colors, all of which have a single contrast stripe towards the hem – a hem, that may be a little short for those who lean on the tall side. 

Putting on these silk pajamas is not only an aid for a good night’s rest, but a gift to your skin as well. As Dr. Elaine F. Kung explains it, “Silk is a natural fabric that does not absorb oil, dirt, mold, or allergens,” which are the most common causes for skin breakouts. It keeps the skin clean, “cool, and dry throughout the night.”

Price at time of publish: $119

Material: Silk | Size: XS - L | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Shorts

Skin Tallis Tap Short

Skin Tallis Tap Short

Skin

What We Love: The added lycra fabric will make this more crease-resistant.
What We Don’t Love:
They’re a tiny bit see-through.

Because of how breathable silk is, wearing shorts on hotter days will keep you cool throughout the night — you’ll barely feel the feathery soft material there as it hangs loosely around you, inviting you to drift off into sleep without any constraints. Aside from the elastic waistband, there are no seams, pockets, or linings that could potentially weigh you down. Instead, the shorts are as light as a cloud, giving your skin a chance to breathe through the night. While it’s not a 100 percent silk, the added eight percent lycra makes this more crease resistant, stretchy, and durable. There is a matching camisole offered on the site, however it’s sold separately. Just be aware the shorts might be a teeny bit see-through, so neutral underwear is a must here.

Price at time of publish: $50

Material: Silk, lycra | Size: 0 - 5 | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Camisole

Cosabella Sanika Silk Cami

Cosabella Sanika Silk Cami

Cosabella

What We Love: The back design is show-stoppingly beautiful
What We Don’t Love:
The mesh paneling might not be the most durable.

The true selling point of this cami is hidden in the back design. You’ll find a mesh paneling, embroidered with a delicate floral and swirl patterned lace. While it looks rather delicate, and therefore brings up the concern of how durable it is — we’ve all accidentally poked holes into delicate lace and mesh before — it surely leaves an artistic impression for anyone looking on. Most of the back is left bare, which allows your skin a little breathing room. The straps, which meet in a single point in the middle of the back, can be adjusted for length. With no cups, paddings, or linings, this top will feel loose and comfortable at all times. 

Price at time of publish: $215

Material: Body: silk. Lace: polyester, polyamide | Size: S - XL | Machine Washable: No

What to Keep in Mind

Material

Silk pajamas are available in a range of options from 100 percent silk to silk blends, and silk alternatives. While all of them have the same silky smooth feel, the breathability of the fabric differs based on the composition. The highest-grade silk fabrics are often the most breathable, smoothest, and most expensive.

Size

Silk has less give than other stretchy fabrics like cotton or spandex, so sizing is extra important. Look for brands that offer a more extensive range of sizing options. It's also worth noting that since you move during your sleep, it's ideal to size up to allow for more comfortable movement in the night.

Machine Washable

We can't stress this enough: read the label on your silk pajamas. While some silk fabrics are conveniently machine washable and will maintain their slippery, softness after a cycle in the washing machine, others will not. Some specialty silk fabrics require more delicate care like hand washing or dry cleaning.

Your Questions, Answered

How do you wash silk pajamas?

Check the labels! Some silk sets are conveniently designed to hold up well in the wash, while others will require you to hand wash and lay flat to dry in order to preserve their smoothness.

What's the difference between satin and silk pajamas?

While they look and feel similar, satin and silk fabrics are quite different by design. Satin is weaved fabric often made from synthetic fibers, while silk is a natural fiber fabric, and often comes with a higher price tag.

Are silk pajamas warm?

"The big claim for silk pajamas is breathability for the skin," explains Dr. Ranella Hirsch, Board-certified dermatologist. "What it does help with is allowing skin to stay cool," she adds. While a long sleeve or pants set will provide some warmth, the benefits of silk are known for its thermo-regulating benefits which keep you cool.

Why Shop With Us

Bianca Kratky is a commerce writer for InStyle with two years of experience covering fashion and lifestyle products. Lindsay Colameo is a seasoned freelance writer and editor with over a decade of experience. In order to write this article, they consulted dermatologists Dr. Ranella Hirsch, Dr. Elaine F. Kung, & Dr. Shereene Idriss, to get a better understanding of how silk affects your skin, as well as tested out several mentioned silk pajamas themselves for a first person experience.

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