Why is Everyone Suddenly Wearing Their Nighties Outdoors?
The trend stems from the Autumn/Winter runways and can be adapted to every style
Now, we’re about to get up close and personal, because I have a rather intimate question for you: what do you wear to bed? Is it a feather-trimmed Sleeper set? A playfully printed Desmond & Dempsey pyjama pant? Perhaps you belong to the “any old T-shirt will do” camp. Or maybe you’re one of the brave few who prefer nothing at all—apparently unbothered by the thought of dashing outside during an emergency in your birthday suit.
Whichever camp you fall into, your answer, some say, can reveal more about you than you might think. And soon, it could be public knowledge. Why? Because the pieces we usually tuck away in our nightwear drawer are stepping out into daylight. Enter: the nightdress trend.
Chloé Autumn/Winter 25 runway
Spotted on the Autumn/Winter 2025 runways at Chloé, Louis Vuitton, Nina Ricci and Cecilie Bahnsen (to name just a few), the sleepwear-inspired look is emerging as a new wardrobe staple. But unlike most trends that revolve around a specific silhouette, colour palette or aesthetic, the nightdress revival is gloriously broad.
Think: cottagecore floral cotton frocks, breezy boho sheers, or slinky lace-trimmed slips. In other words, it’s a trend that you can completely adapt to your personal style—which no doubt plays a big part in its universal appeal.
And, predictably, the nightdress by day trend has taken hold fast. Chic women everywhere are pulling their most intimate pieces into the spotlight—or snapping up similar styles to recreate the look.
Lace slips are paired with sandals, or grounded with biker boots for a tougher edge. Crisp cotton frocks find their match in fisherman sandals and flip flops for peak coquette charm. While exaggerated sheers are styled with mules for a retro flourish. All emphasising the beauty of the nightdress trend: the styling choice is entirely yours.
Below, 11 styles worth slipping into—whether for sweet dreams or street style.
Shop Nightdresses Chic Enough For Outdoor Use
Combining elements of Kate Hudson's iconic How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days yellow silk dress and the lace-filled nightgown style, this frock is sure to stand the test of time.
If Only If are nightwear experts, with frocks that look just as beautiful in bed as they would, say, riding the bus.
This lace cap sleeve dress sold-out almost instantly and we are patiently awaiting a restock.
To turn to the more twee look, this printed cotton midi puts Little House on the Prairie style front and centre. Slip on some simple leather sandals to complete the look.
Stella McCartney proves the nightdress trend can also appear perfectly polished, particularly when paired with colour-coordinating accessories.
Going for gingham? Sleeper is one of the original labels bringing nightwear into the outdoors, and they create much more than the famous feathered co-ords.
There's no short supply of LBND's (little black night dresses) and this Doen lace trim option is particularly timeless.
This Kika Vargas option combinines two types of nightdress styles: the floral frock and slinky lace shape. The perfect pick for those who simply can't choose.
Now, the Chloé nightgowns certainly bring the bohemian vibe, combining frills with pastel colour palettes and an exaggerated silhouette that will see you float through every step.
Prefer a more vintage feel? This Helsa cream and blue bow-tied mini is certainly up to the task. Ankle socks and a chunkier shoe will only accentuate the aesthetic.
Dress experts Rixo have also dabbled in the nightdress trend with this cap sleeve midi dress - one of their most popular styles.
Cecile Bahnsen has long leant into the nightdress style with voluminous frocks that are equal parts comfy and chic.
