The Secrets to Designing Exceptionally Comfortable Pajamas

Pajamas aren’t just for bedtime anymore. From the runway to the classroom, “day-jamas” are part of everyday life in 2025. For brands and designers, that means one thing: if you want your pajamas to be loved, they need to deliver on both comfort and style. Here’s how.

Materials That Feel as Good as They Look

Great pajamas start with the right fabric. Soft, breathable fibers like TENCEL™ Lyocell and modal regulate body temperature and wick away moisture. Cotton jersey brings that familiar tee-like coziness, while washable silk adds polish for the pajama-as-daywear trend.

But fabric alone isn’t enough. The trims you choose—waistbands, drawcords, and binding tapes—are the difference between “just OK” pajamas and ones people never want to take off. A brushed-back waistband elastic ensures comfort through long wear, while a smooth binding tape helps finish edges neatly without scratchy bulk.

At ECI, we offer fold-over elastic tapes that are soft against the skin and built to move with the body:

• 33141-16: A satin-bright finish adds a polished touch that works well for pajama tops and cuffs.
• 33D72-15: This fold-over elastic combines a textured outer face with a soft handfeel inside—ideal for pajamas designed to wear all day.
• 37122-15M: A matte, understated look with gentle stretch that blends seamlessly into minimal or monochrome designs.

These options help designers build sleepwear that feels good, holds up to wear, and looks intentional enough for everyday styling.

33141-16	33D72-15	37122-15M

Construction Details That Remove Every Friction Point

Flat seams, brushed-back finishes, and soft closures elevate comfort. For waistbands, pair elastic waistbands with a functional drawcord—the drawcord lets wearers adjust fit easily, while the elastic provides structure that stays put without digging in.

For cuffs and necklines, fold over elastic adds a smooth, flexible finish that sits flat against the skin. Combined with piping or subtle edging, it creates pajamas that look refined enough to double as loungewear or even casual daywear.

A great example is ECI’s 88708-38QL, a knitted waistband made with moisture-wicking yarn blends. It’s soft, flexible, and helps regulate body temperature—perfect for pajamas designed to be worn well beyond bedtime.

DID YOU KNOW?

Brushed-back elastic waistbands reduce skin friction—but did you know that the brushing technique also affects how the waistband reacts to repeated washes? At ECI, we test for softness retention over 50+ wash cycles.

Fit That Moves With Real Life

The best pajamas feel weightless. Designers should map ease where the body bends—at the seat, shoulders, and thighs—while keeping cuffs and waist secure. Mid-rise elastic pants with a drawcord waist are ideal, bridging sleepwear comfort with a polished daytime silhouette.

And don’t forget inclusivity: thoughtful grading across sizes ensures that trims like waistbands and fold over elastic perform equally well whether for petite or plus sizing.

INSIDER’s TIP
For mid-rise pajama pants, we recommend pairing our soft-touch elastic with a color-matched braided drawcord—this combo keeps shape without bulk under tops or blazers.

Pajamas That Look Good in 2025

The pajama trend in 2025 is about versatility. Think silk drawstring pants, striped button-down tops, and coordinated sets styled with blazers, loafers, or sneakers. Designers are leaning into moody jewel tones, earth-inspired hues, and even the forecasted blue-violet “Future Dusk.”

Adding elevated trims like tonal binding tapes or contrast fold over elastic makes details pop and pushes sleepwear firmly into “daywear” territory.

Quick FAQ on Pajamas

Why does Gen Z wear pajamas to school? Comfort and relaxed dress codes have created the perfect storm for this trend. After years of remote learning, Gen Z embraces ease and authenticity, making pajama pants an everyday look that reflects their values of prioritizing mental health and personal comfort over traditional expectations.

What is the pajamas trend in 2025? "Day-jamas" are in—silk drawstring pants and coordinated sets styled beyond the bedroom. Darker, moodier color palettes are also trending, with rich burgundies and forest greens replacing the pastels of previous years.

How to make pajamas look good? Upgrade fabrics, choose clean trims like fold over elastic and binding tape, and style with polished accessories—think sneakers, loafers, or a light blazer. The key is balancing relaxed silhouettes with intentional styling choices that show you're dressed with purpose.

What fabrics work best for designer pajamas? Modal and bamboo blends offer the perfect balance of comfort and structure, while silk provides luxury and natural temperature regulation. Avoid overly stretchy or synthetic materials that immediately read as "sleepwear only" rather than versatile pieces.

How should pajamas fit for the best silhouette? Aim for a relaxed but tailored fit—pants should sit comfortably at the natural waist with a gentle drape, while tops need enough ease for movement without excess bulk. Cropped lengths that hit just above the ankle create the most modern, intentional look.

The Takeaway for Designers

Comfort and aesthetics go hand in hand. By choosing the right elastic waistbands, finishing with binding tape, adding flexible fold over elastic, and offering an adjustable drawcord, you can design pajamas that feel as effortless as they look.

In 2025, pajamas aren’t just for sleeping—they’re a lifestyle. And with thoughtful design (and trims that do the hidden heavy lifting), they’re here to stay.