Nightgown vs. Nightshirt — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 29, 2024
A nightgown is typically a long, flowing garment worn by women for sleeping, whereas a nightshirt is a loose-fitting shirt-like sleepwear that can be worn by both genders.
Difference Between Nightgown and Nightshirt
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A nightgown, designed primarily for women, often reaches the ankles or feet and is made from comfortable, lightweight fabrics like silk, satin, or cotton. Whereas, a nightshirt is generally shorter, extending to the mid-thigh or knees, and resembles an oversized T-shirt or traditional shirt.
Nightgowns come in a variety of styles including those with intricate lace, embroidery, or feminine cuts, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, nightshirts are simpler in design, focusing more on comfort and ease of movement, often featuring a straightforward button-down front or slip-over design.
Nightgowns have been a part of women’s bedtime attire for centuries, evolving from the chemises worn under clothing in earlier periods. Nightshirts, however, share a commonality with men’s nightwear from the past, reflecting a more for both genders and practical approach.
In terms of functionality, nightgowns may include specific features like adjustable straps, empire waists, or fitted busts to cater to different body types. Nightshirts remain universally accommodating, typically loose and straightforward without tailored features.
While both garments serve the primary purpose of sleepwear, nightgowns can sometimes double as loungewear, especially those that are particularly elegant or modest. Nightshirts maintain a casual, almost utilitarian look, often chosen for their comfort above style.
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Comparison Chart
Length
Long, often ankle-length
Shorter, usually knee-length or mid-thigh
Style
Feminine, with possible lace or embroidery
Simple, often for both genders and utilitarian
Primary Wearers
Women
Both men and women
Common Fabrics
Silk, satin, cotton
Cotton, flannel
Function
Sleepwear, sometimes loungewear
Primarily sleepwear
Compare with Definitions
Nightgown
A long flowing dress worn by women for sleeping.
She wore a silk nightgown that reached her ankles.
Nightshirt
A loose-fitting shirt worn by both genders during sleep.
He preferred a simple cotton nightshirt for its comfort.
Nightgown
A feminine bedtime attire featuring various designs.
The nightgown featured an empire waist that accentuated her figure.
Nightshirt
Often chosen for its simplicity and functionality.
Their nightshirt selection favored utility over style.
Nightgown
Historically derived from chemises used as undergarments.
Antique nightgowns displayed in museums show the evolution of women’s sleepwear.
Nightshirt
Garment suitable for all ages.
The kids wore matching nightshirts during the family trip.
Nightgown
A sleepwear garment, often made from soft, luxurious fabrics.
Her nightgown had delicate lace trimmings at the hem.
Nightshirt
Similar in design to oversized T-shirts or traditional shirts.
His nightshirt buttoned down the front and was easy to put on.
Nightgown
Often used interchangeably with “nightdress” in modern contexts.
Her collection included several floral nightgowns.
Nightshirt
Practical sleepwear focusing on ease and movement.
She bought a nightshirt for its breathable fabric and loose fit.
Nightgown
A nightgown, nightie or nightdress is a loosely hanging item of nightwear, today almost exclusively worn by women. A nightgown is made from cotton, silk, satin, or nylon and may be decorated with lace appliqués or embroidery at the bust and hem.A nightgown may have any neckline, and may have sleeves of any type, or be sleeveless, and any shoulder strap or back style.
Nightshirt
A nightshirt is a garment intended for wear while sleeping, often with a nightcap. It is longer than most regular shirts, reaching down below the knees, leaving some of the legs uncovered.
Nightgown
A loose garment worn in bed or for lounging. Also called nightdress.
Nightshirt
A long, loose shirt worn in bed.
Nightgown
A long loose robe worn mainly by women for sleeping in.
Nightshirt
A shirt-like garment (often oversized) that is worn to bed.
He wore a blue striped nightshirt and bedroom slippers.
Nightgown
A dressing gown.
Nightshirt
A kind of nightgown for men.
Nightgown
A loose gown used for undress; also, a gown used for a sleeping garment.
Nightshirt
Nightclothes worn by men
Nightgown
Lingerie consisting of a loose dress designed to be worn in bed by women
Common Curiosities
What is the typical length of a nightgown?
A nightgown typically reaches the ankles or feet.
Are nightshirts suitable for both men and women?
Yes, nightshirts are designed to be suitable for both men and women.
Can nightgowns be worn as loungewear?
Yes, some nightgowns are elegant enough to be worn as loungewear.
How do I choose between a nightgown and a nightshirt?
Choose based on personal style preference, comfort needs, and whether you prefer a longer or shorter garment.
How do nightgowns and nightshirts differ in style?
Nightgowns often have feminine designs with lace or embroidery, while nightshirts are simpler and more utilitarian.
What are the common materials used for nightshirts?
Nightshirts are commonly made from materials like cotton and flannel.
Are there any specific features in nightgowns?
Nightgowns may feature adjustable straps, empire waists, or fitted busts.
What is the historical origin of nightgowns?
Nightgowns evolved from chemises worn under clothing in earlier periods.
Are nightshirts practical for any specific reasons?
Nightshirts are particularly practical for their ease of movement and simple design.
Can nightshirts be worn in all seasons?
Yes, nightshirts can be worn in all seasons, though fabric type should be considered for temperature comfort.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
