By Cindy Walker Burton

During the 2020 Covid pandemic, a subtle yet surging clothing trend emerged. It was christened Cozy Core (aka Comfy Core): a cultural aesthetic movement prioritizing comfort and relaxation. Cozy Core apparel emphasizes soft, gentle textures and a casual, unconcerned fit. Hello pajamas!

The pajamafication of America is profoundly prolific: sleepwear sales skyrocketed to $22 billion in 2025. Jammies aren’t just worn at bedtime or as a homecoming theme anymore. They’re on highways, byways, and flyways. They’re at airports, sports, and stores of all sorts. They’re in schools, by pools, and on bar stools. Welcome to Pajamarama and Pajamapalooza!

My first public pajama sighting was at the Kansas City airport in October 2020 as I waited to board my flight. To pass the time, I employed the ancient art of people watching. I soon spotted a pair of plaid pajama bottoms. Next, I saw a complete family in a complete matching set of complete jammies. My award Best Jammy Grammy was secretly bestowed upon a woman dressed in the ultimate Cozy Core ensemble: jammies, robe, AND slippers. I silently applauded her uninhibited pajama pomp and panache. The pajama parade at KCI showcased p.j.’s and people of every color and description.

Are you pro-pajamas or no pajamas in public? Personally, I don’t care what people wear. If pajamas are how you dress, I wish you the best! Perhaps it’s time to make leeway for p.j.’s. Disagree with me? Sleep on it.