20 Feb Garment #5 – Undecided
“What are you making?” asked the dignified Mood Fabrics sales associate.
“Pajamas.” I replied.
“Shame on you,” he responded with a wink.
The soft shirting fabric with subtle stripes seemed a perfect choice for a pair of men’s style pajamas, but what did I know.
I meditated on the comment for nearly two years before cutting the fabric and combining two patterns from my stash: Butterick’s 5526 shirt pattern, view C , and Simplicity 7092 for the pajama pants.
My friend who offers professional embroidery services made a beautiful 4 1/2″ monogram for the pocket.
Nearing the end of the shirt construction, I modeled for my husband.
“You’re going to sleep in that?” he asked in disbelief. “That is really nice shirt fabric.”
Perhaps I was wrong… Maybe this needs to be worn as a boyfriend shirt.
I know, most pajama tops don’t have buttoned cuffs, but an oversized shirt pattern with no yokes or bust darts seemed perfect for pajamas, and the soft cotton is suitable for sleeping.
If it is to remain as a boyfriend shirt, I’ll be adding back darts for gentle shaping, but guess what?
I could not leave the remaining fabric behind and fulfilled my original vision by making the pajama pants.
I really like my cozy new PJs, but now I’ve a choice to make. Tell me Readers, what would you do?
Wear the top as a shirt,
or wear as pajamas?
PS…… If you haven’t already done so, be sure and check out Mood Fabrics shirting selection offering nearly 600 online choices! You’ll find everything from Italians cottons to designer fabrics with everything in between 🙂
Michele Brunskill
Posted at 07:12h, 20 FebruaryThat’s a tough decision, it is wearable both ways. Although I do love the elegance of them as pyjamas. I am on the fence about this too. The fabric is beautiful, love the monogram and the colour is gorgeous on you. Cheers, Michele
Barbara Byrne
Posted at 07:14h, 20 FebruaryI think it would have to be the pjs – the two pieces are superb together – the monogram is a perfect finish xx
Loretta Somerville
Posted at 07:15h, 20 FebruaryI sooooooo vote for pajamas! You can always make another shirt out of another fabric that you love! Your work is impeccable.! May I ask what pattern you used for the pj pants? I am also a petite 5’2″ and sometimes find pj pants very large for me.
Susan Owens
Posted at 07:18h, 20 FebruaryI say PJ’s. Why not wear something beautiful to bed? And they are beautiful……
Elise O'Connor
Posted at 07:19h, 20 FebruaryI would do the PJs…..luxurious PJs are a must!
Holly lorenz
Posted at 07:19h, 20 FebruaryAbsolutely pjs!
Jan Crews
Posted at 07:19h, 20 FebruaryThese are beautiful, however you choose to wear them! DBF of six years complains to his pals that I make things for everyone but him. Maybe I need to jump onto this bandwagon. Thanks for sharing.
Jean
Posted at 07:23h, 20 FebruaryWear them as pj’s and enjoy the luxuriousness! You can always make a beautiful shirt.
I think they are fabulous.
AIleen Scott
Posted at 07:26h, 20 FebruaryPAJAMAS! Who says you can’t have yummy, beautiful fabric for pjs?! But I wouldn’t save them for sleeping and the bed. It’s a wonderful lounging outfit for late morning coffee and conversation or an early evening for snuggling with a movie! The pants and top together make a gorgeous ensemble. Somehow for me, the top loses something by itself.
Stacey Manon
Posted at 07:38h, 20 FebruaryI really like both. But those pajamas!!! They are beautiful! I vote on the pajamas. I envision that with a glass of wine and furry comfy, slippers!
Cheryll
Posted at 07:38h, 20 FebruaryPJ’s. My qualifier for that statement is a motto I live by. Sleeping well is essential. Sleeping well dressed is just as essential.
Becky May
Posted at 14:26h, 21 FebruaryI agree!
Marianne
Posted at 07:41h, 20 FebruaryThere’s no such thing as too luxurious pj’s!
Becky Bagwell
Posted at 07:48h, 20 FebruaryI vote PJs! They look so comfy,
Jess
Posted at 07:56h, 20 FebruaryPajamas … The monogram makes the top looks like a high end pajamas …
Lisa G
Posted at 08:00h, 20 FebruaryDefinitely pj’s! Looks so luxe to sleep in. Love the monogram!
Mary Grace Ronan
Posted at 08:03h, 20 FebruaryI would wear it both if I felt like it…wear what makes you Happiest! Or should I say wear it whichever way makes you happiest…I really do love both … The color looks great on you…but then I have not seen any pic of you looking less than Perfect! Enjoy sewing!
Doris Sayer
Posted at 08:04h, 20 FebruaryBoth look so lovely, I think I would have to wear it as a shirt a couple of times then wear them together for beautiful pjs.
Kristina Schenck
Posted at 08:13h, 20 FebruaryI love the pajamas!
Barbara Hewitt
Posted at 08:27h, 20 FebruaryI live in pajamas, as casual at home comfort. How easy to switch out the pants for jeans. Love your ideas. Great inspiration.
Wendy Grossman
Posted at 08:30h, 20 FebruaryLovely men’s shirting is my favorite p.j.s fabric. You deserve the indulgence.
Cissie Wellons
Posted at 08:32h, 20 FebruaryDefinitely PJ’s. I love sleeping in luxurious fabrics! These are really special!
Cheryl
Posted at 08:45h, 20 FebruaryWhat a treat it is to slip into a pair of luxury pj’s at the end of the day. I think this is the perfect use for this beautiful fabric. A while back I made a dressing robe out of gorgeous sand-washed silk. It could have been a beautiful garment to wear out in public, but I have loved having this luxurious garment to put on every day. You may want to spend more time lounging around the house since you can do so with these. Gorgeous!
Eileen
Posted at 08:48h, 20 FebruaryPajamas for “the queen”.
Sharon E
Posted at 08:49h, 20 FebruaryYou can always make another shirt using that pattern. But the pajamas are a luxurious treat so reminiscent of the old black and white movies.
P.S. I have the same rug in my bedroom. But I don’t have the pajamas.
Julie Starr
Posted at 08:53h, 20 FebruaryPjs have my vote, too. To me they ooze luxurious comfort and I’m certain I’d sleep better wearing these beauties. Love the idea of using shirting.
Lynne Farrow
Posted at 09:01h, 20 FebruaryI refer to these type of garments as “Jammie duds”…comfortable clothes that can be slept in or worn out and about.
Karen Mulkey
Posted at 09:04h, 20 FebruaryI vote pjs – they are lushous!
Laura Casey
Posted at 09:05h, 20 FebruaryYou know, Sarah I’d call these Lounging Pajama’s….what you want to put on when it’s cold outside, windy and you want to relax, or Christmas morning….or it’s Springtime….and you want to be outside in you back yard reading a book, when it’s just too early to get dressed….or when your husband is on a business trip and you want to relax and watch a girle movie…….those are what my sister calls; Lounging Pajamas…ones that are so cute you feel great in them…..but you don’t want to wear them to bed,because they become wrinkly…..
These are just for looks! Absolutely love the monogram….takes them over the top!
Tish Higginbotham
Posted at 09:07h, 20 FebruaryPajamas definitely
Deborah Penner
Posted at 09:10h, 20 FebruaryKeep them as pajamas. They would be wonderful to wear for an Easter brunch at home with family.
Audry Borgelt
Posted at 09:12h, 20 FebruaryI’d wear the shirt out, and throw on a comfy tank top to go with your pajama bottoms. =D
Roxanne
Posted at 09:14h, 20 FebruaryOh, I just love them as pajamas.
Gaynelle west brown
Posted at 09:35h, 20 FebruaryWhy not use both ways,,,,dual use of a beautiful shirt. Shirt by day, PJ’S at night.
pamela
Posted at 09:59h, 20 Februarypajamas! the pants and the shirt look wonderful together!
Lainey K
Posted at 10:05h, 20 FebruaryBoth – there is no reason why you can wear it sometimes as jammies and sometimes as a shirt. The pants too. I am from California where fashion rules are made to be broken and often that is how trends are started.
Patricia Pfeiffer
Posted at 10:05h, 20 FebruaryIt is a beautiful shirt worn with jeans! This is a decision you should not sleep on. Too sophisticated construction, button cuffs, etc. for pj’s. Beautiful fabric. The color is so nice on you, too.
Janet Malwitz
Posted at 10:12h, 20 FebruaryI thought shirt until I saw the shirt with the pj bottoms & I say pjs — so elegant. You can’t go wrong either way.
Becky Riddle
Posted at 10:12h, 20 FebruaryAfter having read about pajamas being the new day wear, I say wear wherever you like, it’s in style. However, I must say I don’t understand pajamas as casual day wear to wear out and about! Am I showing my age? If I had to choose, I say pajamas. The set together looks like something that a movie star in the 40’s would wear – elegant, luxurious, and infinitely wearable. I covet your beautiful lounging pajamas.
Jennifer S.
Posted at 10:23h, 20 FebruaryWow your pj’s are truly scrumptious! I would wear them both ways, unless there is more of this gorgeous fabric that Mood has squirreled away some where and make another top to wear exclusively with the pj’s. The colors sing on you!!
Glenda Hall
Posted at 10:30h, 20 FebruaryDefinately pajamas. They are lovely.
kathy wallen
Posted at 10:33h, 20 FebruaryWhy not both? Two garments for the price of one. But more sophisticated lounge wear than mere pjs.
Rose Britton
Posted at 10:47h, 20 FebruarySleep well!!
Bonnie
Posted at 11:08h, 20 FebruaryWear it as a shirt with jeans!
(Nah, just being contrarian — luxury pajamas for sure)
I don’t know about you, but I can only wear a sleep top once before it must go into the hamper. I am picturing those pyjama bottoms with a cami or nice fitted T for every night of the week, in addition to the gorgeous matching top for extended lounge evenings/nights/mornings.
Barbara Carlon
Posted at 11:09h, 20 FebruaryI think they should be worn as Pajamas! The shirt goes so well with the pj bottoms. ;0
Kathy
Posted at 11:27h, 20 FebruaryMy vote is to continue the tailoring process and nip in the back and wear the shirt as a shirt. It seems too much hard work and tailoring went into this garment to not wear it in public. However, I would buy more of the same fabric or a contrasting fabric and make a less structured top to wear to bed; maybe a shirt without a collar stand and cuffs or a camisole top. The fabric is beautiful so hopefully there is more at Mood.
Sashinka
Posted at 19:55h, 27 FebruaryWhy not both? But then again, what Kathy said… makes sense… I don’t know. Do both. 😉
Barbara Kaye
Posted at 12:11h, 20 FebruaryI vote that you wear this lovely creation both ways–who’s to know? Great job, Sarah!
Marcia
Posted at 12:12h, 20 FebruaryPJ’s as originally planned…the set if fabulous!
Lisa Laree
Posted at 12:18h, 20 FebruaryUsing that logic, you’d only use crappy ugly fabrics for PJ’s.
I’d only use it as a shirt if it turns out to be uncomfortably binding for actually sleeping in it, due to the structure.. But if it’s good for sleeping…that’s one fabulous set of PJ’s. You can always make another shirt. And you have ‘dress PJ’s’ if you travel with friends or stay as houseguests someplace…
treva
Posted at 12:30h, 20 FebruaryOooh luxury pajamas for sure… I wouldn’t go back and alter after your original project turnedcout so well!
Maybe your hubby wants was shirt made for him in a similar fabric
JS
Posted at 13:32h, 20 FebruaryPJs. The monogram is far too big for my taste.
Emily
Posted at 14:06h, 20 FebruaryP.J.’s !!!!!! 😀
Bronwyn Moon
Posted at 14:37h, 20 FebruaryPJ’s rock!! One of the reasons I got back to sewing after a 20 yrs break was PJ’s. I simply could not find beautiful cotton PJ’s that fit at an affordable price. These look great and you look like your enjoying wearing them so… enjoy!!
Jane Diggens
Posted at 15:17h, 20 FebruaryHi Sarah, I think the PJs are fabulous and are so glamorous – who wouldn’t have a good night wearing them!
Stevie
Posted at 15:20h, 20 FebruaryDefinitely Pjs! I think having luxury pjs is one of those awesome perks of being a grown up! like a 1930s movie star!
Ruthe Ploskunyak
Posted at 15:41h, 20 FebruaryGorgeous. Go for the pajamas, I say we all need a little luxury in the bedroom.
Helen McCleneghen
Posted at 16:04h, 20 FebruaryI think the pajamas win!
Pamela Viers
Posted at 16:17h, 20 FebruaryI agree, the pj’s are winners. I say get a nice piece of contrast fabric that will coordinate with the scrap fabric from the pj’s and make a short robe. This is the perfect outfit to wear overnight where there is any possibility of a fire alarm going off and rushing you out into public with your nightwear!
.
mandy cantarella
Posted at 16:42h, 20 FebruaryThe pj’s are beautiful. The top looks fabulous as a shirt. What better way to leave the house if you need some comfort than to wear your extremely glamorous pj’s top.
Leslie Wynick
Posted at 16:44h, 20 FebruaryTough one but pj’s for sure, nothing beats luxurious sleepware! Love the embroidery, can you tell us the machine you used?
I made my sister and daughter floor length robes from Vogue 7054 – one in linen and one linen silk – they are a dream to wear. And both fabrics from mood! The pattern is out of print but really good if you can track down.
Martha Hughes
Posted at 17:08h, 20 FebruaryI love the pjs, but I think a button cuff would be very uncomfortable to sleep in.
Karon Scott
Posted at 17:21h, 20 FebruaryWear as a shirt…..get a nice T for sleeping
Kim janowiak
Posted at 19:15h, 20 FebruaryPj,s without a doubt……. They look so soothing and luxurious. I may need to make a pair! I love them.
Karina
Posted at 19:26h, 20 FebruaryI vote for pyjamas! They are gorgeous, and it is great to feel se are sleeping in something beautiful and soft. Love your sewing!
Carol
Posted at 19:43h, 20 FebruaryI love the PJ’s!!
TinaD
Posted at 19:48h, 20 FebruaryBoth. In college, I had a Victoria Secret nightshirt (from before they got strumpet-ish, when they were still trying to be English Country) in a gorgeous lawn with a wallpaper stripe I loved. I often wore it on dates, with a skirt, as well as to bed. There’s no place too good for good fabric.
Marnie Keith
Posted at 19:52h, 20 FebruaryWell both, of course!! The PJ top would be lovely as a boyfriend shirt, as is, without back darts as most men’s shirts do not have back darts. We all deserve beautiful comfortable pajamas. Some of my most luxurious fabrics are made into nightwear. And I feel great wearing them! My favorite pieces are made from a Jo-Ann’s silk purchased for about $3.00 a yard on the half-off Red Tag table. Tossed the 7 yard piece in the washer and dryer before making a nightgown, robe, camisole, and tap pants. Another pj set is made from a deeply discounted cotton lawn from Vogue Fabrics that is as smooth as silk. Where else am I going to be able to often wear these luscious fabrics in Denver? Why should I save them for a “special” event when I can make going to bed special?
CAROL S.
Posted at 19:52h, 20 FebruaryI’m with the crowd. PJ’s definitely.
Enjoy they’re beautiful.
Jennifer A
Posted at 20:21h, 20 FebruaryBecause of the monogram, I say PJs. They’re gorgeous!
Tomasa
Posted at 20:37h, 20 FebruaryI say PJ’s! Why not wear something luxurious to bed? Besides, you made the matching pants too!
Beth
Posted at 20:56h, 20 FebruaryI love the idea of wearing it both ways. However, for me the pj’s would be worn and enjoyed more often. They are lovely.
Debbie Williams
Posted at 22:12h, 20 FebruaryPajamas! Luxurious! Wonderful! How fabulous to sleep in such lovely cotton!
Thelma Ferris
Posted at 22:24h, 20 FebruaryI’d keep the shirt as a boyfriend shirt and ask Mood Fabrics if they have a plain shirting in a matching blue to jake a cuffless shirt for sleeping in. With every best wish and thanks for your Blog, Thellie Ferris, Bootawa, Australia.
Bernice Francisco
Posted at 23:02h, 20 FebruaryI vote for the luxury pajamas. They are so lovely.
ooobop
Posted at 00:30h, 21 FebruaryI love them as posh pjs but who’s to say you couldn’t get double wear out of the top and wear it as an outdoor shirt when it took your fancy?!
Miriam Knox
Posted at 01:08h, 21 FebruaryKeep them as pajamas, they look so comfortable and so elegant. You deserve it!
Barbara
Posted at 01:34h, 21 FebruaryI vote for both. They are beautiful. The fashion director of Elle wore Michael Kors pjs to the Ralph Lauren show last week. Her picture was in the NYTs.
Your pjs fit so much better and the color and monogram are wonderful.
Sew, Jean Margaret
Posted at 06:00h, 21 FebruaryAlthough the top looks lovely as a shirt, I love the look of the set as luxury pyjamas.
Shae cannon
Posted at 07:52h, 21 FebruaryPajamas all the way!
Sue Scott
Posted at 08:04h, 21 FebruaryLuxurious PJs no question!
Sherri Egan
Posted at 09:47h, 21 FebruaryPJ’s, I bet you sleep better in such nice pajamas!
Melissa Schulze
Posted at 11:12h, 21 FebruaryThose are so adorable. Definitely pajamas!!!
Nova
Posted at 13:14h, 21 FebruaryIf the shirt is comfortable for sleeping in, then pyjamas, definitely, BUT… pack it in your hand held luggage when flying, and should your luggage get misplaced, you have the option of paring the bottoms with a cami to bed, and a you have a gorgeous bonus daytime shirt to wear until your suitcase is found!
oonaballoona
Posted at 15:32h, 21 Februaryi’m all for clothing doing double duty! but it must feel so lux to wear this as a set!
Sonja
Posted at 16:50h, 21 FebruaryThese are so glamorous! I would love to have a set of luxurious jams… I should get on that!
MadeByMarg
Posted at 17:06h, 21 FebruaryI would wear it as a weekend shirt! Secret pajamas!
Alice Elliot
Posted at 17:06h, 21 FebruaryDo both of course!!! Gorgeous.
Karen Helm
Posted at 17:39h, 21 FebruaryPajamas, for sure. PJs with a monogram – and especially such an elegant one – are worth their weight in gold! Enjoy!
Winter Queen
Posted at 18:21h, 21 FebruaryPyjamas!! Definitely. Why shouldn’t you look classy by day AND classy by night?!
Danuta Wartak
Posted at 20:59h, 21 FebruaryI vote PAJAMAS. Adorable !!
CarolinasCallin
Posted at 22:21h, 21 FebruaryWear the pajamas! Love, love, love the fabulous monogram, too! Enjoy this set as luxurious pjs (because you’re certainly worth it!) and make another shirt – with another of your friend’s amazing monograms – as a ‘boyfriend shirt’ to enjoy!
Enjoy!
Janice Delahunty
Posted at 22:29h, 21 FebruaryI was going to go with the outdoor shirt until I saw the pants. Go with the pajamas and get different fabric for a boyfriend shirt.
Kimberly Hudspeth
Posted at 04:39h, 22 FebruaryGo with your original intuition. It is this that people love about you, as you know how to take your ideas and make them above-par. The shirt is beautiful, but the pajamas are unmatched!
Myra
Posted at 09:42h, 22 FebruaryDefinitely PJs! I understand what DH was saying, as they prefer us in something a little more “alluring” when we retire for the night! LOL! These PJs are beautiful and wish I had them this weekend when we had guests….they would have been perfect!!
Denise Thompson
Posted at 10:07h, 22 FebruaryYes to both! But, there’s nothing better than a luxurious pair of PJs. I would wear those every night!
Gerhild
Posted at 10:48h, 22 FebruaryI love the blouse but I have to say, I really love the PJs. Gerhild
Jean
Posted at 12:48h, 22 FebruaryPJs! Nothing better than swanky pajamas to take on a trip-you can swan about your hotel room and feel well-dressed if you have to dash out for any reason
Jane
Posted at 13:24h, 22 FebruaryEither way works, of course, but wear those pjs and fully enjoy the comfort of that lovely fabric all night long. Sweet dreams!
Connie Sessiins
Posted at 19:59h, 22 FebruaryWhy limit yourself!? Wear it both ways!
Sheila
Posted at 04:02h, 23 FebruaryGorgeous outfit and beautiful fabric. I vote lounge wear and PJ’s. Always nice to slip into something comfortable at the end of a day!
Micki S
Posted at 18:20h, 23 FebruaryNothing wrong with having and sleeping in luxurious pajamas. I’m glad we had a chance to see them though ; ) Gorgeous, as always!
Genevieve Dellar
Posted at 18:20h, 24 FebruaryBeautiful either way. So many good suggestions! I say make your husband pajamas in another beautiful soft shirting fabric ; )
joy campbell
Posted at 22:40h, 25 FebruaryI say PJs. Nothing like exquisite bed linen and wonderful PJs.