The Ideal PJ Set

Cheap chocolate melting in my mouth, a glossy magazine spread out on my bed, and soft music playing in the background-sounds like a relaxing evening to myself after a long day of chores and fretting. But none of those elements fulfill my prerequisites for a perfect evening unless paired with my favorite PJs. Simple yet undeniably elegant, a camisole and velour lounge pants make me feel sensual, comfortable and calm. It's amazing how fabric can transform my mood and, at least temporarily, my life outlook. The combination strikes me as vintage in the most charming of ways, not water-stained and torn at the edges. More like a parade of pastel-colored parasols, rainbows of satin ribbons, and shiny shoes that click as you walk.

Allow me to delve into the specifics of what I call the ideal pajama set:

Up top, as previously mentioned, I must have on a camisole. I prefer it if my camisoles are cotton or silk. If they contain lace trim, all the better. Nothing could be more feminine. Besides, I like the way the lace grazes my collarbone. It delivers a pleasant tickle and the juxtaposition of hard bone and flimsy fabric is visually appealing. The camisole must be slightly fitting; I always appreciate a little support, too, even if it only comes in the form of a thin elastic band.

On the bottom, I need luxurious velour lounge pants. They must be slightly loose but not baggy, either. It's also essential that they are long enough to hit my feet (they would envy the attention the fabric was giving my legs otherwise.) I seek out ones that have elastic waists and, hopefully, no cords, which I often find pesky. They grind against my abdomen in my sleep. The color is another characteristic I mull over. It must be dark and sophisticated. Other than that requirement, I am open. Currently, I own several black and burgundy pairs. I also have one in deep purple, one in eggplant, and another in forest green. I would love to find a pair in chocolate brown.

Whether I am slopping around at home or preparing for bed, I want my PJs to reflect my personal style while still being practical. A camisole and velour lounge pants strike a wonderful compromise; they make me feel like a lady rather than a fashion victim. I can clean my room in the same pajamas that please me when I look in the mirror.

Perhaps you, too, will enjoy an improved "PJ experience" after slipping into a little camisole and draping velour lounge pants. At the very least, you can try and see if the magic works for you, too.