We’re Calling It: Nap Dresses and Nightgowns Are the Sweatsuits of 2021

Hill House catapulted the nap dress into existence last summer, with Vogue going so far as to call this easy frock one of the top “items that defined 2020.” In fact, the brand actually trademarked the term “nap dress” back in January 2020 (proving just how ahead of the game founder Nell Diamond really was), although lots of other labels have now followed suit with similar designs.

Buy it ($225)

^{Available in sizes XS to XXL}

Another company ahead of the curve was Sleeper, a Ukrainian sleepwear brand that’s all about wearing chic PJs for almost any occasion. That includes this romantic 100-percent linen number with an elastic collar, allowing you to switch between a classic nightgown look or a sexy off-the-shoulder “I’m vacationing in Positano” vibe. We suggest adding a belt to give this frock some shape if you plan to wear it out on the town.

This 100-percent cotton midi is breathable and comfy with a collarbone-baring neckline to balance out the longer hem and trapeze shape. Add a long, robe-like cardigan for chillier days or some colorful, strappy sandals come spring.

This textured tunic may be too short for tall gals to wear comfortably on its own, however all you need is a pair of bike shorts or leggings to provide a little extra coverage.

Yes, this super-soft frock is an actual nightgown—intended to be worn between the sheets—but the thick straps make it easy to wear with a regular T-shirt bra if you want to pop out of bed for a cup of coffee. Add a thin black or leopard belt to cinch your waist and lots of delicate jewelry and no one will know you never changed out of your PJs this morning.

There is no stretch to this floral maxi and it features a hidden zipper closure on the side. But the under-bust seams give your gals a little extra support, should you decide to go braless.

Maybe it’s the low neckline or maybe it’s the button-down styling, but there’s something about this dress that gives us major “lounging poolside with a cocktail in hand” feels…and we are very on-board with that picture right now.

The straps cross in the back so you don’t have to worry about then slipping off your shoulders while you nap, and the mini pleats allow this dress to glide over your curves without adding too much volume. (P.S. At least one reviewer suggests you may want to sport a slip underneath if you plan to wear this beauty out and about.)

This floaty cotton midi will also need a slip underneath, but the incredibly soft material and delicate handmade bobbin lace stripes are definitely worth the splurge.

Buy it ($150)

^{Available in sizes S to XL}

While this mini is definitely long enough to be worn on its own (yes, even for tall gals, like the model who is 5’8”), it also works as a tunic over wide-leg jeans for cold weather excursions to the local market or coffee shop.

Buy it ($238)

^{Available in sizes XS to XL}

Remove the matching belt to make this maxi more comfortable for snoozing. Then simply tie it, or a sturdier leather option, around your waist in the morning and no one will know your day dress and night dress are one in the same.

Yes, this frock comes in just one size, but the shoulders, sleeves and body are all cut generously to accommodate a wider range of bust sizes and body shapes. Wear it with strappy white or beige sandals in summer, or over black tights and pointy-toe boots until spring arrives.