Where did the Pyjama revolution begin?

In today’s time, nothing parallels the popularity of pyjamas as a casual dressing solution.  It is the most stylish attire at home and a fantastic choice as both a loungewear & night dress.  They evolved in the Indian sub-continent and it got popularised worldwide by the British.  In modern times, it is one of the most popular casual dressing solutions for kids, men & women of all ages. It offers extensive options in terms of fabrication, design, and style. Below we take a look at the pyjama revolution and see nothing matches its capacity to provide optimum comfort and convenience.

Pyjamas Etymology- From the Indian subcontinent to the rest of the world 

The origin of pyjamas is in the Indian sub-continent but the terminology got borrowed from Persia.  Initially, it was a lose-fitted and lightweight trouser pant that serves to wear across the day and night. The original featured a drawstring waistband.  During the initial days, pjs were popular among the men.

These trouser pants were introduced in Europe by the British during the 18th and 19th centuries.

By the beginning of the 19th century, it made its way to the United States, taking the minimum time to make this attire their own.  By the middle of the 19th century, it popularised in France as well as various other British colonies worldwide.  

Pajamas set a silent yet a strong revolution to emerge as the most stylish outfits at home and as a Sleepwear 

Pjs passed through a series of changes to emerge as the most sought-after attire at home.  In modern times, it is an all-weather outfit that promises optimum comfort and convenience.  These trouser pants came a long way, from a typical indoor outfit to one of the most fashionable clothing for some casual outdoor appearances.  Nowadays you can find people wearing pyjamas during transit from one place to another. 

Pyjamas and Fire Safety Guidelines 

Even if it is casual attire, in various countries across the globe one must comply with specific fire safety standards. For example pjs for kids in the US must adhere to fire safety guidelines.  In case the construction involves a flammable material, it must undergo a fire retardant treatment.  In the UK there are not such stringent fire safety guidelines applicable on pyjamas.  However it should come with a label stating it should be kept away from fire. 

Culture and Society

Though pjs traditionally are an indoor outfit, in some countries people wear pyjamas outdoors whilst in other countries it would be frowned upon. However, in case you traveling abroad with you pajamas here are some interesting facts to keep in mind:

  1. In Chicago, you cannot go fishing wearing pyjamas. 
  2. In 2010, a supermarket in Saint Mellons, imposed a ban on customers’ entry wearing pyjamas. 
  3. You cannot wear pyjamas to the workplace in the UAE. 
  4. In Dublin, if you are wearing pyjamas, you cannot enter the social welfare offices. 

There goes the pyjama revolution.