Christmas Pajamas

Classic Tartan Flannel Pajamas / Cotton Yeti Pajama Set (these are adorable!) / Dreamy Cotton Pajamas / Stella McCartney Pajamas / Cotton Textured Dot Sleep Set / Stripe Sleep Set / Medallion Pink Sateen Pajama Set / Sparkle Plaid Pajamas
I know so many people who have a Christmas tradition of the entire family receiving pajamas on Christmas Eve so they will have them to wear on Christmas morning. Does your family do this? Christmas pajamas isn't something my family ever did but I think it sounds wonderful. Buying or receiving new pajamas is always a special treat. I have rounded up a few great options above. My favorites are these classic tartan pajamas and these pajamas with adorable little yetis on them.

For When You're Feeling Under the Weather

I have been under the weather since Thursday night. I have a very stuffy nose and head. It seems like it is hard to hear because of the congestion. I have just felt very tired and unmotivated. When I am feeling under the weather, I just want to stay at home to relax and rest. I don't want to go to work and I definitely don't feel like being around crowds of people. When I'm sick, I have certain items that are a must to making me feel better. Don't you?

ONE // Throw: I need a comfy blanket like this Banded Herringbone Throw. I am never cold unless I'm sick, so a comfy throw to snuggle up in is a must for me.

TWO // Lip Balm: I definitely need something like this Sugar Lip Balm to keep my lips from drying out. When I am constantly coughing, like I have been, I need something to add some moisture to my lips.

THREE // Mug : Whenever you are sick, everyone tells you to make sure to drink plenty of fluids. Why not have an adorable coffee mug like this Owl Mug? It even has a cute message inside it.

FOUR // Pajamas: This is absolutely the most important item on the list. When you feel bad, you absolutely need to be in comfy pajamas to help you relax and rest. Cute pajamas like this Heidi Klum Pajama Set will definitely help you be comfy and cute.

FIVE // Comfy Spot: Once you have assembled all of the other items here you need to find a comfy spot to relax and get better in. It could be somewhere like this Miramar Chair or a plush couch or even your bed.

SIX // House Slippers: You also need something like these Pom Pom Slippers to keep your feet warm.

Career Spotlight: Courtney Kates // Maison Du Soir

If I were to create a list of the best things in life sleeping in and pajamas would be right at the top of my list. When not at work I spend a lot of time in my pajamas so you can bet I want my pajamas to feel and look great. For years I was baffled by the lack of elegant, stylish sleepwear on the market until I was introduced to Maison Du Soir. Maison Du Soir is an American made luxury sleep and loungewear line based in Southern California and created by founder and designer Courtney Kates.

Courtney has made it her mission to create high quality garments in flattering silhouettes out of buttery soft, luxurious fabrics. Each item is also designed to be mixed and matched and suitable for both sleeping and wearing out so you no longer have to be ashamed or avoid wearing your pajama shirt out for your Saturday morning coffee.

I am amazed by Courtney's branding, her attention to detail, and the high quality of all of her garments. I am convinced that after slipping into one item from Maison Du Soir every woman will refuse to ever settle for sub-par sleepwear again. My favorite item from Courtney's current collection? The Melbourne with Piping, which is a chambray shirt dress inspired piece with a modern fit and classic white piping trim.

We are thrilled that Courtney took some time out of her busy schedule to answer some questions for us. Read on to learn more about Courtney and Maison Du Soir.

What is your background?

I was a ballerina for 13 years until I entered the workforce. Prior to founding Maison Du Soir I worked for 10 years in merchandising & Design. In my last 2 years, I helped the company that I worked for launch new brands.

What is the story behind the concept for Maison Du Soir?

Maison Du Soir was born sometime after I purchased my first quality, matching set of sleepwear. When I slipped it on, I looked better which made me feel better and consequently helped me sleep better. I was hooked and wanted more. After looking online and heading to some favorite department stores, I realized there was not much out there that I really liked. I'm not a lace and bows girl, lingerie is uncomfortable and most of the classic sets that are somewhat affordable have wide legs and boxy tops. Being in the fashion industry, I didn't understand why it seemed the sleepwear market wasn't paying attention to our changing needs and trends. Everything seemed dated, boxy or cheesy sexy. The wheels started spinning as I envisioned what would be so much cuter to sleep in and became obsessed with so many designs in my head. Maison Du Soir took flight and I haven't turned back since.

When did you know it was time to launch your business and what steps did you take?

I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit but could never put my finger on what it was I wanted to do. That passion combined with identifying a niche as well as having merchandising and design experience was the perfect recipe to launch. I started with all the necessary legalities – trademarking a name, forming a corporation and immersing myself in product research and design.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned since launching your business?

It’s a roller coaster. You just have to stay on and ride the ups and downs.

What has been the biggest obstacle you have had to overcome?

The financial aspect is a constant struggle. Developing a collection is incredibly expensive as well as putting out the capital to produce the pieces.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I always start at my computer and get organized for the day. Then I’m anywhere from planted in front of my computer ALL day to running around LA to meeting with accounts up and down the coast.

What is the best part of your job?

Meeting incredible new people like you two!

And to keep it real. what is the worst?

Counting in inventory. I’m the worst. I have to recount like 3 times and for some reason, it’s still wrong.

Looking back is there anything you wish you had done differently?

Yes and no. I believe everything happens for a reason and you learn things as you need to. I do wish I would have had a better handle on Quickbooks prior to even selling one piece.

What is a goal you have for your business that you hope to accomplish in the next year or two?

More exposure – I’ve worked incredibly hard creating a high quality line of sleepwear that fits well and can cross over into loungewear/daywear now it’s just a matter of letting people know I’m here.

Being a busy business owner how d you stay organized?

I write everything down. When I feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, I stop everything and clean my desk. I also have a lot of spreadsheets!

What has been one surreal moment you've experienced since launching Maison Du Soir?

When I heard I was a Martha Stewart American Made finalist I got kind of teary I must say. (See it here)!

What is your best piece of advice for others who hope to someday be a business owner?

⋄ Be prepared to work and push yourself.
⋄ Being an entrepreneur takes incredibly hard work, sacrifice and patience all at the same time.
⋄ Keep your day job as long as you can.
⋄ Many successful companies have started with nothing – so that means you can too.
⋄ There is always an up after the down.

Connect with Maison Du Soir: Pinterest // Twitter // Facebook // Instagram

images provided by: Maison Du Soir

Essentials For The Perfect Day Home Alone

Sticky Buns (so good!) / Pajama Top / Apple TV / Polishing Body Brush / Deep Sleep Bath Oil (a splurge but so worth it) / Pajama Shorts / The Silkworm / Mug / Slippers / diptyque Candle / Pom Pom Blanket (love this)
A few days ago I was sitting with a group of attorneys in the courtroom while we waited for our cases to be called before the judge. Everyone was talking about all of these great places they were wishing they could escape to such as the beach. As the conversation continued I piped in and said, "I just want to stay home and watch Netflix." My statement received a few laughs but is so true.

I am all for days spent traveling to fun places, socializing with friends, or running around town to either visit favorite local spots or try new things. While I love doing all of these things days in which I have no plans, no responsibilities, and no where to be always rank among the best days I could have. I especially love these days when I can spend them totally alone. There is something so calming and balancing about having 12 or 24 hours completely to yourself. I think it good for the soul.

Above are a few of my essentials for a perfect day at home alone including comfy pajamas and necessities for a luxurious bath. I read this book recently and cannot wait to pick up the second book in the series soon. What are some of your essentials for a perfect day at home alone?

P.S. I talk more about alone time here and I discussed how I like to spend my free time here.

Comfy Pajama Sets

White Pajamas chic - Star Print Pajamas - Striped Pajamas - Silk Pajamas - Butterfly Pajamas beautiful print - Gold Speckled Pajamas - Black and White Pajamas love the stripes - Happy Hour Pajamas -

I absolutely love pajamas. Around the house, when I am not expecting any visitors, I wear pajamas most of the time. They are just so cozy and comfortable. After a stressful day of hard work it is a relief to come home and pull on a pair of pajamas. All of the above sets are beautiful. I have a wide variety of pajamas. Some are solid and neutral and some are very colorful. I have one set of pajamas with very colorful stripes that Tracy likes to make fun of and call my clown pajamas. I know some people do not like pajamas, what are your thoughts?

Lovely Brand: Maison Du Soir

Comfortable, pretty pajamas are among the best things in life along with sleeping in, rainy days, a great steaming cup of coffee, cats, and books you canoot put down. Actually, if you add all of those things together you basically have the perfect day.

I was recently introduced to luxury pajama brand Maison Du Soir when I was attending a birthday party where a friend received a few pieces as a gift. I was taken aback by the flattering silhouettes and luxurious fabrics. As someone who takes her sleep and loungewear seriously this is a brand I can definitely get behind. Among my favorites is this beautiful floral pajama top and shorts and this soft, chic knit top.

Do you own any Maison Du Soir pieces? What amazing brands have you recently been exposed to?

via: 1

For The Perfect Night In

My crazy workdays and these frigid temperatures have really made me appreciate staying in whenever possible with a cozy throw and comfy pajamas. There is nothing better than curling up with a book, choosing future recipes to bake, and catching up on favorite tv shows. Two of my current favorites are these slippers (how cute!) and this candle that I have been lighting each evening.

Robe / Hand Cream / Socks / Slippers / Diptyque Candle / Silk Pajama Shirt / Bubble Bath / Pajama Pants / Throw / Homemade With Love Book
via: 1

Cozy Pajamas

I posted about one of my favorite traditions earlier this week. One tradition that many seem to practice but my family missed out on is receiving new pajamas to wear on Christmas morning each year. Few things sound better to me than having new cozy new pajamas to snuggle up in while unwrapping presents under the tree. I am actually considering starting a tradition of buying myself some new sleepwear for the occasion each year. Below are some that have caught my eye. How festive would this plaid pajama set be? I would love to have this navy robe to pair with this in red.

Plaid Pajama Set / Eberjey Jersey Pajamas / Domino Dot Pajamas / Robe / Pocket Crest Pajamas / Polka Dot Pajama Pant / Silk Pajama Shirt / Pink Silk Pajama Shirt / Pink Silk Pajama Pant / Botanical Print Pajama Set / Equipment Pajama Set
via: 1

Pajama Party

Pajama style pants have been popping up a lot lately. While there is something undeniably appealing about spending all day in pajamas I have been on the fence about replicating this look. The girls above look beautiful but I find this look can be hard to pull off without looking too disheveled. One tip I have discovered is pairing pajamas inspired pieces with very structured accessories. You can find two pairs of silk pajama styled pants here and here for under $100.

via: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Relaxing in my Pajamas

Source: hush-uk.com via Sunny on Pinterest

Finally I was given a day to myself! Yesterday was the first day in SEVERAL weeks that I was not busy. Lately, my schedule has just been so hectic. I have not had a day to just relax and do what I want to for a long time. Between going to classes, working on a HUGE project, doing some things for work, and having to do things around the house I have been absolutely exhausted. I thought I would end up with a nice three day weekend but family events took two days of it from me. But Sunday was such a reward!

Source: None via Sunny on Pinterest

I got to sleep in, which is a reward all by intself. Then I thought there is no need to get dressed, I don't have anything to do today. So I stayed in my pjs all day.

Source: marthastewart.com via Sunny on Pinterest

Besides lounging in my pjs I had plenty of time to relax and do the things that I actually wanted to do.

Source: nowness.com via Sunny on Pinterest

I relaxed with my cat, who also lounged around the house for most of the day.

Source: flickr.com via Sunny on Pinterest

I also had time to catch up on some reading.

Source: littleemmaenglishhome.blogspot.com via Sunny on Pinterest

I also had time for some baking. It has been a couple weeks since I have had time for that.

Source: google.com via Sunny on Pinterest

And I ended the day by watching some tv.

Have you had a day to just rest and relax lately?

Star

Get Well Soon

Except for a few short intervals, I have spent the last few months consistently sick or injured. This past weekend was no exception. I had a horrible sinus infection that was quite literally kicking my butt. It required such massive amounts of medication, that Charlie Sheen would have been made proud. And Vicks Vapor Rub became my best friend. If this vicious cycle of being sick every other weekend continues I am going to start given some serious consideration to how practical it would be to live in a bubble. I spent the entire weekend laying on the sofa or in bed in my pajamas. (And in case you are wondering, yes I totally look like the picture above when I'm sick and lounging around in my pajamas.)

A few of the things that are essential when I am sick are: Simple comfort foods. My favorite tv shows and movies ready to go in the DVD player. Stacks of magazines. At least keeping up with some reading makes me feel a little productive. Lots of blankets are essential and I love when my cat will cuddle with me. He is such a sweetie.

What helps you to feel better when you are sick?

♥ Sunny

via: We Heart It

Catch a Few ZZZzz's

When I was in high school and middle school I loved to have sleepovers. One of the things that I looked to forward during the school year was getting to invite my friends over for sleepovers or going to their houses for sleepovers. We didn't really get a lot of sleep on those nights because we were too busy having fun. There are certain things that every girl needs for a sleepover: cute pajamas, a sleeping bag, and a bag to carry everything in.

When looking for pajamas I found all of these cute pajamas at Old Navy. I think the slippers are so cute.

Pajama Set 1
Old Navy Womens Thermal Henley Tops $15 - oldnavy.gap.com
Holiday Sleepover Duffle, Coco Dot $69 - pbteen.com
Juicy Couture Hair Bands $25 - nordstrom.com
Printed Roll-Up Lounge Pants $10 - oldnavy.gap.com
Stripe Footbed Slippers $24 - monsoon.co.uk
Sleeping Bag Dot/Bright Pink pbteen.com

I paired every set with hair bands or a headband, because in the evenings I am always pulling my hair back out of my face. This Vera Bradley Headband is adorable.

Pajama Set 2
Thermal Henley Tops $15 - oldnavy.gap.com
Totes Terry Bow Slippers, Lilac $21 - johnlewis.com
Vera Bradley Blooming Headband $9 - verabradley.com
Printed Roll-Up Lounge Pants $10 - oldnavy.gap.com
Holiday Sleepover Toiletry Bag $29 - pbteen.com
Coleman Fairmont Sleeping Bag (Purple) $13 - amazon.com

This is my favorite set of pajamas shown. I love the greens and blue together. Since this look has a cami for the top I added in a cute robe, to wear to keep warm in cooler temperatures.

Pajama Set 3
2-Color Striped Cozy Socks $5 - oldnavy.gap.com
Lace-Trim Shelf-Bra Camis $11 - oldnavy.gap.com
Summer Sleeping Bag, Malibu Dot/Green $99 - pbteen.com
Juicy Couture 'Charms' Hair Bands $25 - nordstrom.com
Printed Roll-Up Lounge Pants $9.99 - oldnavy.gap.com
Fleece Robe (Medium Heather Grey) $40 - ae.com
Handknit Clog Slippers $32 - johnlewis.com

Sleepover Necessities

You want to have a lot of fun and plenty of time to talk at your sleepovers. Every sleepover needs a ton of movies to watch all throughout the night. Of course you need lots and lots of junk food like pizza, chips, and icecream to eat during the movies. Magazines like Elle, Marie Claire, and Vogue are needed to look at fashion trends. Pretty nail polish shades are needed so you can paint each other nails. Facials are also good for sleepovers too.

What do you need for your sleepovers?

Star

Via: WeHeartIt

You're the Cat's Pajamas

After a long day a long stressful day I look forward to nothing more than going home and slipping into my pajamas. The comfy, cute pajamas instantly help me relax. Pajamas are definite mood lifters, at least for me. They are also give us another great opportunity to look fashionable or at least cute.

Cat's Pajamas by sunnydaysandstarrynights featuring GAP pajamas

Look 1:
Sleeping Mask esquebeauty.com
Old Navy Terry Thong Slippers $11 - oldnavy.gap.com
Floral Decorative Pillow $13 - target.com
Stretch-silk camisole $150 - net-a-porter.com
Gap Plaid pajama pants $20 - gap.com

Look 2:
Victoria's Secret sleep mask use.com
Amour Lounge silk-satin camisole $225 - net-a-porter.com
Amour Lounge silk-satin boy shorts $125 - net-a-porter.com
Rosette Accent Slippers $70 - yesstyle.com
Love Cushion $175 - calypso-celle.com

Cat's Pajamas 2 by sunnydaysandstarrynights featuring GAP pajamas

Look 3:
Striped Henley Lace Cami $12 - aeropostale.com
Printed Roll-Up Lounge Pants $15 - oldnavy.gap.com
ACORN Biba Slipper $43 - endless.com
Decorative Pillow $20 - target.com

Look 4:
Ralik Necking Purple Tee $16 - zumiez.com
Gap Star pajama pants $20 - gap.com
deLux Animal Slippers $32 - amazon.com
Charm School Dec Pillow $26 - wakeupfrankie.com
Eye mask awholelottastuff.ca

Look 4 is a little quirky but sometimes it is important to embrace your quirky side and have some fun with it.

For a more romantic, flirty look try something similar the items below.

Cat's Pajamas 3 by sunnydaysandstarrynights featuring Juicy Couture dresses

Look 5:
Black Night Dress Journelle Inc $139 - journelle.com
Dentelle lace and mesh briefs $30 - net-a-porter.com
Tarina Tarantino Heart Post Earrings $46 - zappos.com

Look 6:
Sheer Black Night Dress Journelle Inc $600 - journelle.com
Lace Ribbon Lace Front Bow Ribbon $3.79 - peacocks.co.uk

Look 7:
Black Robe Journelle Inc $358 - journelle.com
Pink Night Dress with Lace Trim Journelle Inc $94 - journelle.com
Pink and Black Lace Journelle Inc $24 - journelle.com
Tarina Tarantino Heart Bracelet $67 - zappos.com
Tarina Tarantino Heart Ring $46 - zappos.com

Look 8
Robe Journelle Inc $358 - journelle.com
Pointelle cotton-blend night dress $85 - net-a-porter.com
Pink Briefs Journelle Inc $64 - journelle.com

I love how these looks are so feminine. I especially adore all of the pieces from Journelle.
After last week's crazy, busy weekend now I am longing for a couple lazy days filled with curling up on the sofa with a ton of movies and blankets. Days where there is no reason to rush to get out of my pajamas.

♥ Sunny

via: We Heart It