Throughout history, sleepwear has reflected the diverse cultures and traditions across the globe. In today's world, however, homogenization due to globalization has led to more similar sleeping habits. Comparing the endless variations of how people used to dress for sleep to the present, it’s fascinating to explore the transformation of pyjamas. Here's everything you didn’t know about the history of pyjamas.
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The Private Past of Pyjamas
Historical narratives often derive from artifacts, artworks, and cultural expressions, but sleepwear has generally been considered a personal affair, meant only for the wearer's family. This private nature significantly limits our understanding of pyjamas from centuries ago. Thankfully, we can piece together various hints to envision their appearance and style.
During the Middle Ages, pyjamas were largely unstructured and adorned minimally. These garments were typically created by female family members, ensuring they were simple and quick to make. Only nobility had access to more elaborate designs, which drew inspiration from Asian and Roman styles, featuring comfortable long dresses with flowing sleeves.
Interestingly, the term pyjama has its roots in the Hindi phrase 'pae jama' or 'pai jama,' meaning leg clothing, originating from the 13th-century Ottoman Empire. Traditionally, these pyjamas were loose-fitting trousers fastened with a drawstring, worn by both genders across South Asia and the Middle East, in countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Iran.
The pyjamas were characterized by their varied fits; they could be either snug along the entire leg or wide at the waist but tapering at the ankles. Each pair was typically worn with a knee-length belted tunic, promoting comfort and cleanliness within the home.
The 14th and 15th centuries brought European awareness of these distinctive pyjamas, leading to adaptations suited to local climates. By the 17th century, it became common across Europe to wear some form of pyjama influenced by their experiences in Eastern territories.
The Creation of the Sewing Machine
The rise in popularity and variety of pyjamas can be traced back to medieval influences intertwining with the evolution of Western fashion. Prior to the 18th century, they primarily existed as lengthy nightgowns or shirts. However, the invention of the sewing machine revolutionized the garment-making process, allowing for more intricate designs and the rise of ready-to-wear clothing—a novel concept for society.
Over the ensuing centuries, the styles of pyjamas began to be influenced heavily by societal norms and perceptions of propriety, reflecting what was deemed acceptable or stylish at various points in time.
Men's Sleepwear
From the early to mid-19th century, nightshirts resembled day shirts, featuring a folding collar and deep necklines. With the passing of time, these nightshirts evolved, becoming available in various materials like flannel and cotton by the late 19th century.
As the century drew to a close, the ankle-length nightshirts transitioned to nightgowns, with their longer versions dubbed night robes. By the early 20th century, the older styles fell out of favor, paving the way for the **modern pyjamas** we recognize today to gain prominence.
Women's Sleepwear
Men began to introduce embellishments into their pyjamas long before women. Women's options remained largely unadorned, limited to simple dresses or nightgowns. Their nightgowns resembled Eastern designs like the Indian banyan and included a tie around the waist for closure. Change was slow due to the restrictive societal norms regarding women’s rights.
However, it was designer Coco Chanel who first created stylish and elegant pyjamas for women, demonstrating that they could be just as comfortable and chic as traditional nightgowns. By the 1930s, women’s pyjamas surpassed nightgowns in popularity, evolving in design to incorporate fashionable elements that resonated with contemporary aesthetics.
The Modern Transition
Transitioning to the modern pyjama during the 20th century also coincided with the relaxing of formal attire and evolving perceptions of female sexuality. By the mid-20th century, silk shirt-and-pants sets, influenced by Asian sleepwear, gained traction, and women embraced gender-neutral designs.
Pyjamas and the Future
Looking ahead, it’s intriguing to contemplate the evolution of pyjamas over the next century. Historically, sleepwear remained static for prolonged periods, only diversifying after the sewing machine’s introduction. We can expect the trend of wearing pyjamas both at home and in public to continue growing; they have long transitioned from strictly sleepwear to popular casual attire.
Today, wearing pyjamas outside the home is increasingly normative, reflecting a cultural shift towards comfort over formality. The future may usher in an era where pyjamas dominate non-registration clothing choices.
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