Nightgowns

Fabric and comfort

Length and cut follow temperature and comfort. Short strappy styles suit summer, knee-length short-sleeved styles are the all-rounders, and long-sleeved maxi versions keep you warm in winter. An A-line cut does not restrict you as you turn over; fitted styles look better but can be uncomfortable at night.

The fabric decides the rest: cotton and viscose absorb moisture, bamboo and modal are smooth and cool to the touch, satin and silk do not cling to the skin or build up static. If you get night sweats, choose absorbent fibres rather than satin.

Look at button-through styles with buttons at the neckline too - they are practical during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Wash cotton at 40 degrees, satin and silk at 30 on a delicate programme. Dispatch in 1-2 working days, free delivery over PLN 199, 14-day returns.

Three things decide. Length: mid-thigh gives the most freedom, knee-length is warmer, maxi comes into its own in winter. Straps: thin ones are light, but with a fuller bust they can dig in, while wider, fixed straps spread the weight. Fabric: cotton and viscose breathe, satin and polyamide knit are smooth and cool to the touch, and knit with added elastane drapes better on the body.

Which style to choose

A nightdress beats pyjamas wherever a waistband gets in the way and trouser legs twist as you sleep. We have gathered 20 styles here, mostly by Key, alongside items from Lormar and other makers.

How to choose your size

Allow room across the hips - a nightdress is meant to hang freely rather than cling, otherwise it rides up during the night. If you feel the cold, choose a style with longer sleeves or add a dressing gown.

A wider choice of sleepwear, including two-piece sets, is in pyjamas. Check the measurements in the size chart - nightwear sizing varies between brands more than daywear knits do.

Washing and care

In practice it is worth having two to alternate: one finer and one with longer sleeves. Bedroom temperature changes more across the year than the hour we go to bed does, and choosing the right weight works better than adding another blanket.