The earliest mention of 'pajama' can be credited to a French traveler, Francois Pyrard who was held captive in Goa during 1608-1609. In his book, the Voyage of Francois Pyrard of Laval, he mentioned about the Portuguese wearing cotton trousers when going to bed.

The word 'pajama' originated from the Persian word 'payjama' meaning 'leg garment'. These casual trousers were used only as nightwear. But with passing time, pajamas underwent a number of changes in their design as well as in use, all across the world.

Evolution

Pajamas have come a long way since their modest beginning as a sleepwear. Many variations in pajamas have made them the fashionable garments. Lounging pajamas are one of the good examples of successful variations of traditional pajamas. These drawstring and loose pajamas are now coupled with a sleeveless or sleeved jacket (without cuffs) and are worn as a pair. Some of the world famous designers have also launched their line of trendy pajama designs.

Some of the most famous and commonly used pajama varieties are footed pajamas, funzees, beach pajamas, capri pajamas, hostess pajamas, etc.

Materials used

Pajamas which are essentially designed for comfort are made up of materials such as soft cotton (flannel), warm wool, luxurious silk, satin and synthetic fibers such as lycra, nylon, polyester, etc.

In cold regions, pajamas are mostly made up of wool. Cashmere is a popular wool variety used to make pajamas which are worn in US, UK and other European countries. Cashmere is considered as a high end product because of its quality. It is very soft and warm.

Cotton pajamas are absorbent, comfortable and soft. Silk not only gives lustrous appeal to the pajamas, but also acts as a natural fire retardant.

Design and decoration

Pajamas, popularly called as PJs, jammies and jimjams are considered a style statement by youth. Besides, they are also popular among all the age groups. They have evolved from sleepwear to perfect and fashionable daywear. They are available in different designs with narrowed leggings, onesis, etc. They can be coupled with sweat shirts or tunic tops and can be sported as a casual daywear publicly.

Besides the latest cuts and designs of pajamas, they can also be made to look trendy and unique by adding sports images, floral prints, polka dots, customized messages, floral prints, stripes and the list goes on. One can also find pajamas plainly designed with different colors. The usage of prints on pajamas also evolved over the years.

Pajama has travelled a great distance overtime and across the globe. Yet, comfort, the basic feature of a pajama, is still untouched and is to stay for a long time to come.