When it comes to sleep, some people like technology. Smart watches and wearables that record our heart and breathing rates keep track of our unconscious life; wifi-connected mattress toppers chart nightly sleep cycles; and an ever-increasing stack of books promise to unlock the mystery of a better night’s rest. But there’s another side to the story: one that has less to do with data and more to do with how we feel when we climb into bed — and how that feeling impacts our rest.
That’s where Karina Miller comes in. Miller is co-owner of Nod Sleepwear, a Vegreville-based company that she founded with her husband Luke. Nod sells innovatively engineered sleepwear that she says “truly fits a woman’s body.”
The company was born on a sleepless night during which Miller repeatedly had to adjust her sleepwear. Lying awake, she thought, “Someone should come up with a new design for women’s sleepwear that does not bunch or ride.” The idea quickly became more than a midnight musing.
Miller, who had been a teacher for 20 years, was longing for new creative challenges. She saw an opportunity in her sleepwear struggle and quickly got to work.
Her husband’s background in business was an asset as they built the business, but Miller quickly learned that she needed help with bringing her designs to life.
She turned to In House Designs in Vancouver, who worked meticulously to help her eliminate the standard seams on the front and back of pajama pants — a source of her discomfort — while still making them fashionable. They also helped Miller find the perfect cotton blend to eliminate the scratchy, stuffy feeling traditional pajamas can produce.
After some trial and error, Miller says Nod Sleepwear’s jogger successfully eliminates the midnight wedgie, and because of their seamless design, they also avoid the all-too-common diaper look. The result is a product that can be worn to bed, around the house — or, as is becoming the trend, around town.
Staying home during the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a swing in fashion toward casual, comfortable clothing. In the first three months of the pandemic, sleepwear sales increased by 143 per cent. Since then, the trend has continued, with sleepwear spending growing by 2 per cent each year. But as we’ve returned to real-world socializing, our pjs have come with us. Public pajamas are no longer slacker attire, they are a fashion staple — and a comfortable one.
“Women should never sacrifice comfort to be fashionable,” says Robyn Zechel, co-owner and designer for Cloud Nine Pajamas. The storefront has been a staple in the Edmonton community for over 15 years, so it’s no surprise to Zechel that people want to feel comfortable while showcasing a sense of style and confidence. She has also noticed a demand for versatility in sleepwear. Neutral colour selections are popular with women looking for a night-to-day sophisticated set, a perfect loungewear option that is easily wearable during a quick errand run.
This popularity in minimalistic garments inspired Miller’s sleepwear line to also promote itself as an at-home day wear. But a good night’s rest is still her priority — and the right pajamas, she says, is what helps you get there. “It’s what you need to sleep and look good and be comfortable.”
Nod Sleepwear
Vegreville, AB | nodsleepwear.com
Cloud Nine Pajamas
Edmonton, AB | cloudninepajamas.com
