How to: The New Pajama Dressing
L.A. has certainly seemed to master the pajama chic look. When I first moved here I could not get used to the flurry of furry Gucci slides and marabou-type sandals traipsing around on the sidewalks. Then I figured out how to work them in to my wardrobe to make them look intentional and elevated. So how do you add kimonos, camisoles, pajama shirts and something lacy to an outfit without looking like you are in your lingerie in broad delignt? I’ve thought long and hard about this. The trick to pulling off I sleep in a boudoir and not a bedroom look is to play up your basics. Just add a few pieces with that little, extra oomph.
SHOP THE OUTFIT
SHOP KIMONOS, DUSTERS & COVER-UPS
It’s the same rule whether adding a slipper mule or a kimono to a pair of jeans: play up the basics and accessorize. First, find a kimono you adore in a print and color you'll keep coming back to. Case in point, this Helena Quinn kimono from Rachel's Zoe's Summer 2017 Box of Style. I am just crazy for Rachel Zoe's curated Box of Style picks. And this season is no different. You can find a similar palm-print duster in this Spring 2018 Box of Style or shop any of the favorites I've rounded up for you in the carousel above. I am also so happy to share a discount to my readers who wish to become a Box of Style subscriber and save $15 off your first box with quarterly subscription by using special offer discount code ARTFULLY15 or save $20 off your annual subscription with code BOS20 here.
When outfitting your kimono, start by pairing a tee and a simple tank underneath so as not to compete with any print and then add a bold earring. I chose these shoulder-grazing Mignonne Gavigan earrings that are handmade leather and oversized in black with silver bead detailing. I added a bright cami for daytime that plays up the floral element and lightens things up from being too serious. Though a black cami also keep things clean. And add a little lace, like I did with a black lace cami, and things get sexy and chic for nighttime. Don’t be afraid that lace might add to that look of lingerie. Just keep it at a level you feel is apropos. I love how the lace detail on these Mother jeans plays up the peek of lace of my look even more. And a little lipstick, or a lot, never hurt anyone! I so love how distressed denim and the addition of a leather belt helps contrast and balance the floaty, feminine ease of the kimono and keeps the look dressy. Though, you can certainly do a flat sandal or chic satin slide.
If you’re wondering too, “do I wear it open or tied,” the choice is up to you. Three simple ways I like to wear my kimono are: traditional and tied, belted and empire (where the belt sits high on the waist and finally, tied at the back if you like a cleaner look in the front or want to showoff a cami underneath. Adding a belt obviously adds another fashion element and looks a tad more thought out and formal. I pulled my hair back into a tight, center-parted pony to keep with a sleeker, chicer vibe. I like to let my hair down and natural for more relaxed, boho vibe.
SHOP PAJAMA DRESSING
Some other pajama basics you might consider trying right now: a piped pajama blouse with jeans. A slip dress with tee underneath and some satin slides. Also, satin pants with matching satin cami and a simple high-heel sandal is a chic and sexy dinner outfit. You can shop the post all the staples I found to take you from coffee-run to cocktails seamlessly and in style.
