The best nightwear: From sleepshirts and thermals to silky shorts

Rebecca Gonsalves reveals what should you wear to get a good night's sleep

Ermanno Scervino autumn/winter 2015

The clocks go back this Sunday which means we're all treated to an extra hour with which to do what we see fit. For me it'll be an extra hour in bed – I don't want to sound like a self-appointed wellness guru with questionable credentials, but sleep is terribly important for one's health don't you know. But just what should you wear to get a good night's sleep? DUVET DRESSING (pictured above) is a mini trend this season but one probably best kept to outerwear unless your boiler's broken down.

The choice is usually between either a complicated construction of lace and silk that befits only a Disney princess or something Bridget Jones would hide herself away in for a heartbreak-induced booze and chocolate binge. If neither of those scenarios sounds appealing, happily there is a third way. If you are feeling flush, I cannot recommend THE SLEEPSHIRT (1 - see gallery above) highly enough, based on wonderfully old-fashioned designs and made from high-quality Japanese cotton without unnecessary adornment. The shirts are comfortable and, I think, chic. Hanro is another brand worth investing in: it excels at loungewear (modern parlance for leggings, trackie bums and cardigans) and THERMALS (2) that are warm, soft and usually machine washable. The label is Swiss, which explains its efficiency.

If spending loads of money on something you'll never leave the house in would have you tossing and turning all night, there are still plenty of options on the high street if you know where to look. I love Marks & Spencer's MEN'S PYJAMAS (3), especially when in suitably dad-like patterned pure cotton. Natural fabrics like cotton, silk and wool should stop you from over-heating in the night, but if temperature really is a problem even in the depths of winter, a pair of SILKY SHORTS (4) should help you keep your cool.