Silk Pajamas You Can Wear Practically Anywhere

(Bloomberg Businessweek) -- For years, designer and model Olatz Schnabel attended everything from museum openings to film premieres with her then-husband, the artist Julian Schnabel, who wore his signature pajamas. It inspired her to create an eponymous line of PJs that are light and comfortable, yet durable and attractive enough to wear in a variety of situations. That expanded to robes, shirts, slips, and bedding made in the U.S. from 100% high-grade silk. Almost all Olatz items—for men and women—are made to order, with a painstaking attention to detail. The brand has won fans from Kim Kardashian to Heidi Klum.

The Competition

• The $120 Gisele pajamas from direct-to-consumer brand Eberjey have a similar piped design and tailored fit. The stretchy jersey material is extremely comfortable—but less elegant.

• Sleeper’s $275 cotton PJ set in coal with white piping and a roomier cut is addictive because of its softness and breathability.

• Lingerie purveyor Fleur du Mal makes a piped silk jumpsuit ($595) for women that may not be designed for sleeping but is certainly fashioned to turn heads.

The Case

As light as it is, silk isn’t for the faint of heart—it can trap heat to a surprising degree. But there’s nothing more comfortable than loafing around the house in a well-fitting silk ensemble like this unisex PJ set. Olatz’s designs are slimly tailored and chic—tuck the shirt into a pair of jeans or slacks, and you’ll have a look that’s equally at home behind the kitchen counter as it is out on the town. $600; olatz.com