On various social media forums, international students have also shared their observations about the unique dressing culture of the Japanese, especially Japanese women. Numerous videos and testimonials from people who have lived in Japan confirm that Japanese women rarely wear revealing clothing, exposing their chests, and never wear pajamas in public.
Although Japanese women love showing off their long legs, they almost never wear pajamas outside their homes.
Why don’t Japanese women wear pajamas in public?
In Japanese society, clothing is not just a fashion choice but also a way to show respect to others. Japanese women tend to dress neatly and elegantly, reflecting their respect for themselves and their surroundings.
They rarely expose their skin, keeping their shoulders, stomach, and cleavage covered to maintain decorum and politeness. Consequently, pajamas and lounge sets, designed for comfort and relaxation in private spaces, are deemed inappropriate in public places where neatness and politeness are valued. Therefore, house clothes, such as lounge sets or nightgowns, are only acceptable within the family or when relaxing at home.
Additionally, for the Japanese, wearing pajamas in public is not only considered disrespectful but also reflects a lack of awareness about personal image in shared spaces.
This is why Japanese people, even when running a quick errand to the nearby convenience store, will change their clothes and put on light makeup to leave a good impression on those around them.
Vietnamese women’s fondness for wearing pajamas outdoors
While wearing pajamas or lounge sets in public is considered a “silent taboo” in Japan, it is a different story in Vietnam. In Vietnam, women don’t confine their pajamas to the bedroom; they wear them everywhere. A walk outside will reveal women and mothers dressed in pajamas, whether at the market, the supermarket, or just strolling down the street. With their lightweight and airy design, it’s no wonder that these lounge sets are favored by women, especially in a tropical climate like Vietnam’s.
Many women consider pajamas as regular outfits for grocery shopping…
…or even for a casual stroll.
Wearing pajamas or lounge sets outdoors has even become a trend embraced by Vietnamese celebrities. Notable names like Ninh Duong Lan Ngoc, Diep Lam Anh, and Huong Giang have been spotted outside their homes in colorful and comfortable lounge sets.
While wearing pajamas in public has become commonplace, it has also sparked mixed reactions. Some people maintain the view that wearing sleepwear outdoors is not only aesthetically unpleasing but also disrespectful to others. They argue that flimsy and tight-fitting pajamas can be revealing and easily attract unwanted attention.
However, some women take this trend too far, opting for revealing and inappropriate styles.
How to stylishly wear pajamas in public
While dressing is a personal choice, if you feel comfortable wearing pajamas outdoors, there are ways to style them or choose more appropriate options.
1. Opt for elegant styles:
When wearing pajamas in public, it’s essential to choose designs that are sophisticated and classy. Avoid overly revealing or short pajamas, as they can appear sloppy and cause discomfort to others.
Instead, look for pajama sets with simple yet fashionable designs, such as long-sleeved shirts or A-line dresses. These options offer a polished and modest look while being versatile for mixing and matching.
2. Choose premium fabrics:
The fabric of your pajamas plays a crucial role in creating a stylish and refined look. Instead of opting for cotton or thin silk pajamas, consider choosing thicker and more luxurious fabrics like tweed, wool, or high-quality blends. These fabrics not only exude elegance but also make your outfit appear less sloppy and more sophisticated.
Thicker fabrics also prevent accidental exposure in public.
3. Add a jacket:
One simple yet effective way to elevate your pajama look and make it more presentable is to throw on a jacket. This not only keeps you warm on chilly days but also adds structure and formality to your outfit, making it less casual and more suitable for public spaces.
A jacket can instantly elevate your pajama ensemble.
