In the early 20th century, the outbreak of the First World War not only changed the pattern of the war front, but also affected the design and wearing of pajamas. With large-scale factory production, pajamas began to change from exclusive products of the nobility to consumer goods for the masses, and their functionality was also improved.
Escape and practicality
During World War I, raids were frequent at night, and traditional long pajamas and robes were no longer suitable for the needs of escape. As a result, formal wide-leg pajamas became popular, which were not only warm and comfortable, but also practical and beautiful. A columnist for The Guardian wrote: "Dark blue pajamas are best, and they can blend into the night." On the way to escape, women wearing such pajamas can evacuate their homes generously and decently.
Fashion and leisure
In the 1920s, the upper class began to use pajamas as a casual wear for informal occasions. While wearing pajamas, they would also wear silk headscarves, hold cigarettes in their hands, wear high-heeled slippers on their feet, and have sparkling accessories around their necks. Vogue magazine commented: "Women can certainly wear pajamas to formal dinners, and those who dare to break the rules also wear pajamas to go to the theater."
Pyjama Resort
Juan-les-Pins on the French Riviera has become a popular tourist destination. Compared with other tourist attractions, it claims that this place is less "stifling" and is famous as a "pajama resort".
The power of women
With the advent of war, a large number of men were transferred to the front due to the conscription policy, which was a very good opportunity for women in the rear of the war. In 1915, a women's football team was officially established. They donated all the ticket revenue to treat soldiers injured on the front line of World War I. In 1917, Margaret Demo Dawson established the first female police team in the UK, organizing a team of 1,000 people to manage the Pembrey Arsenal in South Wales. In the same year, Flora Mori and Louisa Gartler Anderson, under the pressure of the British military to increase the number of wounded soldiers, managed the first military hospital with all female staff. In 1918, the Representation of the People Act was officially passed by the British House of Parliament, marking the beginning of women's right to participate in politics and vote.
Wearing pajamas as outerwear and women's liberation
The post-war fashion atmosphere and leisure atmosphere gradually became more open, and wearing pajamas as outerwear became one of the symbols of women's improved social status and liberation. As women's status in social, political and economic fields continued to improve, wearing pajamas as outerwear also became a way for them to express themselves and pursue freedom.