The History of Sleepwear Trends

white cotton pajamas
Nightgown, nighties, and pajamas; to you, they’re just something you throw on without thinking before heading to bed. But did you know that there’s actually an extensive history surrounding the white cotton pajamas we all know and love?

(Source: 1930s Underwear Models)

Historic Sleepwear

Centuries ago, sleepwear wasn’t the cutest or most comfortable thing on the market. According to mentalfloss.com’s article on changing sleepwear, “from ancient times until the 1800s, people would either catch Zs in a variety of nightwear, ranging from their day clothing to undressing down to their tunic and undergarments—the equivalent of today’s plain white T-shirt and leggings.” Years and years ago, pajamas were bulky and didn’t have any shape to them. They absorbed perspiration, meaning they needed to be made of washable, white linen. The white linen could also be boiled and bleached and was the preferred fabric for lower, middle, and upper classes. The quality of the linen, however, denoted which economic level the wearer fell under.

(Source: BreveStoria del Cinema via Flickr // CC BY 2.0)

Nineteenth Century Sleepwear

During the nineteenth century, nightgowns increased in popularity and became extremely distinguishable from other women’s undergarments. These white cotton nightgowns featured high collars, yokes, and cuffs. The high collar gave the sleepwear a more professional, put together look. They were made to appear more elegant than the historic nightwear of the past. These nightgowns also featured wider necklines that wasted less fabric and were convenient for the ill.

(Source: wikipedia)

Ready-to-Wear Nightwear

As the nineteenth century went on, ready-to-wear white cotton pajamas because available. They were loose and long, had embellishment on the yoke, included ribbon, beading, lace, embroidery, and ruffles. The nightwear could even be monogrammed, if that’s what the person wearing the fabric desired. Monogramming has been around for centuries. The hoarding and use of large amounts of household linen became popular around the year 1200 AD, when sheets, tablecloths, and napkins were marked with dark ink to identify their owner. These nightgowns were typically white but sometimes came in different colors at the turn of the century.
The sleepwear we don today isn’t necessarily what people wore back in the day. Our pajamas tend to be a lot shorter, made of different fabrics, and come in a variety of styles and colors. But there are still many people who choose to stick to the classic nightgown. They’re breathable, comfortable, and all around classy.

Jacaranda Living’s Denise Nightgown is an elegant choice for classy women who love wearing the old fashioned nighties.

5 Ways New Moms Can Actually Get Some Sleep

white cotton nightgown
If you just had a baby you probably haven’t gotten a ton of sleep lately. You may be sitting here thinking you’ll never get sleep ever again, but guess what? Sleep is possible!
The lack of sleep can largely impact your life. And to get your sleep schedule back on track, there are a few things you can do.

The first things you should do are establish a regular bedtime routine and try to relax. While it may be hard to get under the covers at the same time every night, getting into a bedtime routine can be beneficial. There are many different relaxation techniques you should start practicing if you want to get a better night’s sleep. For example, you can read a book, go on a walk to clear your head after dinner, fill out a crossword puzzle, or listen to calming music. You may even consider taking a relaxing bubble bath every now and then (if you can). Do anything that will help you wind down that doesn’t involve a screen. So, stay off of the phone and turn off the television and computer.
Even if you rely on soda and coffee to get yourself through the day, this won’t be very helpful while trying to fall asleep. Cut yourself off from stimulants as well as chocolate and energy drinks by mid-afternoon. We recommend having your last cup of coffee at lunch time. Stimulants like these are guaranteed to make falling asleep harder, especially if you indulge in them later in the afternoon.
When your baby is asleep and you’re finally able to get into bed, it can be very hard to switch off your mind. If you find that you’re having trouble trying to get to sleep, don’t get frustrated. Try writing down what might be keeping you awake. You could also try changing up what you’re wearing to bed. If you’re in a pair of sweatpants and a baggy t-shirt, you might not be as comfortable as you think. A white cotton nightgown or white cotton pajamas might be the better option. The great thing about white cotton nightgowns or nighties is that they’re going to keep you warm, yet they’re light enough to be breathable.

Change out your old pjs for something comfortable and cool like the new Natalie PJ set.

Newborns tend to sleep about 10.5 to 18 hours each day. Even though this may seem like a lot of sleep, it can be very hard for a new mom to catch a significant amount of shut-eye. To try and make your sleep experience better, change your sleepwear to cotton PJs and nightgowns, stick to a sleep schedule, and cut back on stimulants and caffeine at least 4-5 hours before bedtime.
The cutest little baby wearing a baby sheep embroidered baby hat from Jacaranda Living. It comes in many designs, choose your favorite here.

Yes, your newborn is adorable, cute and most of the time very needy, but you need to put time aside for yourself too.

The Best Sleepwear to Help You Keep Cool and Avoid Summer Sweats

Waking up drenched in sweat is never a good thing, but it definitely happens to most of us, especially during hot summer nights. It can get unbearably hot at night. The best way to fix this is preparing for warm summer nights with the right sleepwear. Jacaranda Living’s range of cool cotton PJs and nightgowns will help you stay cool and comfortable during summer nights.

girls white cotton dress
Victorian nightgowns to keep you cool during warm summer nights

There are several cotton nightgowns from Jacaranda Living that are great options for summer nights. These cotton nighties are made up of breathable fabric, so you don’t have to worry about suffocating in your wintry PJs made of a thicker fabric. Since these nightgowns are cool dresses, it will help keep you cooler than if you wear a warmer PJ set.
girls white cotton dress
The Kristen Nightie is a flirty favorite with its ruffled flair and short hem. A cute and comfortable choice to wear around the house.

If girls white cotton nighties aren’t really your thing, and you’re more of a pants and top kind of gal, you can still find a sheer cotton pajama set that will keep you cool throughout the night. This new white cotton PJ set with blue piping will be one you fall in love with, especially because it is a great set for warmer nights since you won’t overheat while sleeping in soft sheer cotton. They’re also very easy to take care of, as they are made of cotton, so there’s no need to take your sleepwear to the dry cleaner.
girls white cotton dress
The Iris Cotton PJ is the perfect set to curl up on the couch and enjoy a girls’ night in.

If you’re looking for something cool but a little more elegant then the Victorian PJs are for you. Victorian pajamas have the elegant style you might prefer than a cool and casual look, but they will also keep you feeling cool during warm summer nights. Elegant, classy and comfortable all in one. You can choose from Victorian sleep sets or Victorian nightgowns. If you’re fashionable every day, why not be fashionable while you’re sleeping, too?
girls white cotton dress
The Natalie PJ’s swiss cotton voile dot fabric is sheer and comfortable – a new, elegant favorite that will keep you cool from season to season

You can even get your sleepwear monogrammed – just email info@jacarandaliving.com for personal inquiries! Monogramming has been around for thousands of years. The hoarding and use of large amounts of household linen became popular around the year 1200 AD, when sheets, tablecloths, and napkins were marked with dark ink to identify their owner.
girls white cotton dress
Monogrammed sleepwear are great gift ideas for bachelorettes, bridal parties and showers! Inquire for your requests.

These are all great options to help you avoid those summer night sweats. Waking up in the summer after a long sleep to find your bedding and pajamas soaked is the worst feeling. Try the above sleepwear options to keep cool and comfortable all summer long — or check out some of other great items, like our girls white cotton dress.

Cotton vs. Satin: Which Pillowcases Are Better?

boudoir pillow casesHow much sleep you get each night is extremely important. If you don’t get a lot of sleep, chances are you’re going to be grumpy and not on your A-game the following day. Newborns sleep a total of 10.5 to 18 hours a day, but as adults, we need just about eight hours. Lack of sleep can often be due to sickness, living arrangements, or the fact that you’re still in college and have to pull your fifth all-nighter this semester. But lack of sleep can also be due to the fact that your bedding isn’t as comfortable as it could be.
It’s the age-old pillowcase question: Which is better — cotton or satin pillowcases? If you are currently stuck with the option of satin or cotton pillowcases, here is a lit of what you need to know about each of them.
Cotton Pillowcases
Cotton pillowcases are extremely comfortable if you’re looking for a really good night’s sleep, but if you have curly hair, you’re going to regret laying your head on them. Cotton is an absorbent fabric which means while you sleep the pillowcase may absorb some moisture from your hair and cause a few tangles. On the bright side though, cotton is very breathable in perfect for warmer climates where you want to lay on something that will keep you cool. Say hello to an excellent night’s sleep during those hot summer months! In addition, cotton stays soft throughout its lifetime and gets more comfortable with every wash.
Satin Pillowcases
Satin pillowcases are perfect for the curly haired people of the world as they are extremely smooth, won’t absorb moisture, and won’t create friction. Many people confuse satin pillowcases with silk pillowcases, but it’s important to note that satin is man-made and silk isn’t. Satin is made of a synthetic fiber. It’s not as expensive as silk pillowcases, and can also be used for decorative pillow or boudoir pillow cases. Boudoir pillow cases are perfect for any room in the house, so keep that in mind when picking out the perfect types.
Sleep is extremely important and isn’t successful solely based on the white cotton dresses or white nightshirts you wear to bed. It’s also based on what you’re laying your head on. Now that you know a little bit more about these two types of fabric for pillowcases and if they can be used as boudoir pillow cases or not, which are you going to choose?

Why Can't I Get a Good Night's Sleep During Spring?

boudoir pillow
Bedtime is typically your chance to unwind after a potentially stressful day at the office so put your feet up and shut your eyes. Considering how important sleep is, it’s important to note that spring is typically the hardest time of the year to actually get a good night’s rest. If you find yourself struggling to sleep well during the spring, here are some reasons you might be having trouble.
boudoir pillow
Allergies
Spring is usually one of the most allergy-ridden times of the year. It’s just about that time when trees and all other plants start shedding pollen, which leaves many people having itchy throats, runny noses, and burning eyes. Needless to say, it can be really difficult to fall asleep and sleep well throughout the night with these allergies. One thing you can do to help your sleep is to make sure all of your sheets, boudoir pillow cases, and blankets are consistently being washed. Boudoir pillow covers are really good in general since they are made out of cotton, but it still is important to wash them weekly along with the rest of your bedding in hot water. This will help eliminate any of the allergens that you brought into bed after a long day outside. Plus, your embroidered and decorative pillows will smell nice after you wash them. In fact, about three-quarters of people say they get a more comfortable night’s sleep on sheets with a fresh scent.
It’s Light Outside
Many people may be excited that it’s not getting as dark as early anymore, but the fact that the sun is setting later means it’s going to rise sooner. If you are generally awoken by the sun, you might need to install some blackout curtains in your room. The blackout curtains, as their name suggests, will prevent light from coming into your room, so you’re not waking up before your alarm goes off. If you don’t want to have a fully blacked-out room, wear an eye mask instead.
The Birds!
If you’re not a fan of birds chirping early in the morning, then you probably hate spring. Usually, during the springtime, the birds are awake before most humans are. If you have a bird’s nest right near your window, you might think there’s nothing you can really do about the noise. You can’t move the nest, but you can wear a pair of earplugs to bed. The earplugs will do enough to block that excess noise out, but will still allow you to hear your loud alarm going off so you can start the day on time.
Spring is one of the best times of the year, but it can be one of the worst for your sleep. Take a look at the steps listed above and if you find yourself in any of those situations, test a few of the solutions we’ve offered here.

How to Bring Simplicity into Your Bedroom

white cotton pajamas
After you come home from a long day at work, you probably want to just kick back and put your feet up. Creating a peaceful space in your home can actually allow you to do just that while clearing your mind of the hustle and bustle. This simple space is an easy way to make everything around you stop for a little while.
Many people choose to create their peaceful, quiet space within the walls of their bedroom because it’s the easiest place to feel relaxed and energized for the days ahead. There are some great things you can do to bring peace and simplicity into your bedroom, too.
First, probably the most important thing you can do is get rid of all the clutter in your space. It’s understandable that things add up over time and it’s common to just throw everything into the corner of your bedroom, but it’s not really great for your mind. Having that much clutter in one room can make it really hard to sleep at night. Take the time to go through all of the junk that has accumulated in your room and organize it. Throw out the things you no longer need, go through your closet and get rid of the clothes you haven’t worn in five years, and make this space look as empty as possible.
Creating a white color palette is another way to bring some serenity into the space. Now, this doesn’t just mean changing your bedding and painting the walls. It also includes what you’re going to be wearing to bed. White cotton pajamas, white nighties, and white cotton nightgowns are all perfect options. White cotton pajamas are breathable, soft, and luxurious. you can find white cotton pajamas in any type such as ladies nightgowns or Victorian style nightgowns. You’ll be able to sleep peacefully at night knowing that you’re wearing something that will keep you cool enough at night but also warm you up during the colder months. And if you buy percale, which is any cotton woven with a 200 thread count or more, it is more durable than a cotton satin of the same thread count. It’s also less likely to pill than cotton satin fabric because it has a denser weave.
Finally, making your bedroom a space that is reserved specifically for relaxing and sleeping is an easy way to bring some simplicity to your life. Ditch the TV, the stereo, and the electronic devices. Those things do not belong in your bedroom or any space that will be used for peace.
If you lead a busy life it’s so important to have a place where you can feel calm and relaxed. Making your bedroom that place can allow you to come home after a long day, take off your shoes, and get a good night’s sleep.

Why Choosing a Nightgown Is the Best Option for Your Sleep

nightgown
There’s nothing better than hopping into bed after a long day at work. It’s the time of your day where you get to relax and unwind.
During this time, you should be able to feel really comfortable, and that isn’t just a determining factor of how cozy your bed is. What you wear to sleep is extremely important, too. While many people choose pajama sets, old t-shirts, or nothing at all, modern nightgowns are a great choice for a few different reasons.
They’re Long-lasting
The best nightgowns are made from the finest cotton, which not only means that they’re good if you have allergies, but they will also last for many years to come. All of the times you throw your nightgown into the wash won’t impact the quality of your white cotton nightgown. You can sleep in the white nightie for a long time without having to worry about ruining them. It’ll definitely be the Victorian style nightgown that you can wear time and time again.
You’ll Sleep in Style
Not only are white cotton nighties great due to their longevity, they’re also very fashionable. Choose from classic Victorian inspired nightgowns with touches of embroidery and lace, or from modern, simple styles all in pure cotton. They’re extremely feminine, yet also offer a retro appeal. You can choose the length of the sleeve depending on your comfort level. You’ll have a choice of no sleeves, capped sleeves, 3/4 sleeves, or full sleeves. Hem lengths range from short to knee and ankle length. All of these options are extremely fashion forward. They’re also great for young women and teenagers. Also breast-feeding young mothers love the button-front styles – practical, pretty and natural.
They’re Comfortable
Above anything else, it’s important that you are comfortable in what you’re wearing to bed when you go to sleep. If you’re in something that’s too stiff or too tight, you’re probably not going to sleep very well that night. If you’re in something that’s so thick and heavy, you’re probably going to wake up in the middle of the night sweaty and uncomfortable. Since the nightgowns are made from a pure cotton material, they’re very breathable, flexible, and comfortable. They’re warm enough to wear in the winter, yet cool enough to wear in the summer.
It’s important for a person to get seven to nine hours of sleep per night in order for them to function properly. Without the right outfit, your sleep will be disrupted. The next time you head to bed, make sure you’re putting on your nightgown to ensure a night full of peaceful and comfortable sleep.

Why Cotton Is Still the Number One Fabric Choice

white cotton nightiesCotton has been the favored fabric choice for pretty much everything for a very long time. Cotton is still preferred by a huge number of people around the world.
In terms of style choices, 44% of Americans report that they have an overall “traditional” home, while 22% say they have a modern style, 13% say their home is eclectic, 10% call their style “country”, and 2% of Americans say their home has a global theme.
What does this mean for cotton? Cotton is a staple in the traditional home style. There is really not a more traditional fabric out there. But why do people still love cotton after all these years? Here’s why, according to LiveStrong.
Moisture Control
Cotton fabric is known for being breathable. Livestrong tells us that cotton “transmits moisture away from the body and is absorbent and removes liquid from the skin, like a towel.” This makes it the perfect material for apparel like white cotton nighties (or other ladies nightgowns) as well as sheets and other bedding. Sleeping in cotton is incredibly comfortable when it keeps you dry all night long.
Insulation
In the summertime, cotton actually protects skin from the heat. It also keeps us warm in the winter. How are these both possible? Cotton provides thermal insulation that allows the fabric to hold itself away from the skin and encourage more air flow. Sleepwear, like Victorian pajamas, is made out of cotton for this very reason.
Hypoallergenic
Cotton rarely causes allergic reactions on the skin from contact, unlike many other fabrics. Wearing cotton is usually recommended for people with skin allergies. This makes cotton a great material to use for things like boudoir pillow cases because it is so gentle on the skin.
Durability
According to LiveStrong, “cotton has a high tensile strength, making it strong, durable and less likely to rip or tear. It is 30 percent stronger when wet, withstanding many washings in hot water.” If you want your towels to last for years, make sure they are made of cotton.
Cotton is comfortable, practical, and lasts a long time. It is the perfect fabric to use when making items like white cotton nighties or pillowcases for your guests. No wonder it has been the number one choice of fabric for all of these years.

Hit the Hay like a Jane Austen Character

white cotton nighties
Lounge in effortless style wearing our favorite cotton Pru Pjs

There is something undeniably enchanting about the pages of a Jane Austen novel. The elegant female leads go about their days with grace, entertaining and engaging in literary dramas. And they certainly go to bed with the same poise. With the right decor and nightwear, you too can rest in typical Jane Austen fashion. All it takes is some classic white cotton nighties and classic decor. To make your Pride And Prejudice dreams come true, consider the following bedtime ideas.
Victorian Nightgowns
white cotton nighties
Feel at home in some elegance wearing our Amy Nightgown

Feeling like a proper Jane Austen character is all about how you carry yourself, and this starts with how you dress. By having a set of white cotton nighties in your wardrobe, you can pull on these pieces out every night and welcome luxurious comfort.
Boudoir Pillow Cases
white cotton nighties
Nothing says home like our beautiful embroidered pillows of your favorite designs

Once you dress yourself in lovely nightwear, then you can lounge on some elegant bedding. By decorating your sleeping area with boudoir pillow covers, you are sure to feel like a Victorian woman. You can even design the rest of your bedding with these covers at the center, draping your bed with pretty details.
Embroidered Details
white cotton nighties
A splash of embroidery to elevate your cocktail and dinner parties. Shop our favorite table napkins today

 
From embroidered dinner table and cocktail napkins to the handkerchiefs on your bedside table, these embroidered details will take you back in time. Only one in five Americans are happy with their decor, but with sweet details like these, you are sure to love yours. Especially when hand-crafted, embroidered decor can put the finishing touch on a traditional room.
Pleasant Scents
white cotton nighties
Upgrade your bathroom with a touch of embroidery and sweet smelling flowers

Jane Austen ladies surrounded themselves with rose and lavender, so find ways to include these scents in your room. You might even want to cut some fresh flowers to place next to your bed. These smells will lull you to sleep each night.
Floral Elements
Speaking of flowers, try to include these small details into the overall decor, as floral patterns were a staple of Victorian homes. Whether you go all out with traditional wallpaper or add smaller details such as candles, you are free to be creative.
While we are certainly far from the Victorian society represented by Jane Austen, we can borrow elements of this literary life. From your clothing to bedroom decor, every detail counts when you want to snooze like the heroines of this day.

A Restful Place: Key Elements Of The Perfect Bed

As you strive to create a timeless bedroom where you feel right at home, it’s essential to get your bed in order. The bed is the center of the room, and it should be adorned as such. When you create the perfect bed, your bedroom becomes much more comfortable and inviting. While the ideal bed is unique to each person, there are some elements that you can add to form the baseline of perfection. As you design the resting place of your dreams, consider the following elements.

Sheets With A High Thread Count

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Sheets need to be soft and comfortable. Thread count is the most important determinate of a sheet’s comfort. Thread count is basically the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric, both horizontally (weft) and vertically (warp). Sheets with higher thread count will have more weft threads. High thread count sheets are certainly worth the investment.

Decorative Pillows

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By selecting a beautiful array of decorative pillows, you can add charming touches to even the simplest beds. A variety of boudoir pillow covers can allow you to match your pillows to your decor as you see fit. When you set these pillows up each morning, your bedroom will look more complete.

Soft Blankets

A bed should be a comfortable nest of softness, and this all starts with finding the right blankets. With a full comforter and some decorative throw blankets and coverlets, you can make your bed much more snuggle-worthy.

A Pretty Nightstand

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It’s not just what’s on your bed that makes a difference; the objects next to your bed also matter. Place a linen tissue box cover, a candle, some flowers, and other small elements on your nightstand to make it feel like your own.

Comfy Pajamas

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No cozy bed is complete without a perfect pair of your favorite cotton pajamas or nightgown. When you slip into our sleepwear, you will be ready to nod off in no time. And when you wake up to your alarm in the morning, you will feel refreshed from enjoying such a cozy, comfortable night’s sleep.

The perfect bed can make your room into a beautiful haven of rest. By purchasing each item carefully, you can curate your ideal place of rest. And then you can look forward to bedtime more than ever before.

decorative pillow

Enjoy shopping our collection for your home or give one of these items to a friend for a gift on Valentine’s Day.