I've Tried Dozens of Pajamas. Nothing Can Beat These $9 Trunks.
I find the fit generous without being baggy. The inseam is just long enough to keep me well-covered around the house (for modesty), and the legs are cut wide enough that the shorts don't pull or twist when I move my body or roll around at night. The trunks' fit allows you to wear them as you might wear actual pajamas, whether you're lounging around the house or briefly stepping out to pick up the mail.
The most notable feature is the three-panel construction. Most cheaper boxers have a two-panel construction, with a seam running down the center back, but Muji's trunks are cut from three panels. This type of construction is usually seen only on more expensive trunks; in addition to eliminating the uncomfortable rear seam, it creates a more three-dimensional seat to better accommodate your butt and keeps the trunks from riding up. The Muji trunks' three-panel construction omits the center seam and makes them more comfortable. Alex Aciman/NYT Wirecutter
They also have a strip of fabric covering the interior crotch seam, also for comfort. All of these construction details add extra steps and time to the manufacturing process, but they produce a pair of boxers that look and feel like so much more than a pair of boxers. Everything about these trunks is designed for comfort and lounging. The clean, covered seams of Muji's trunks. Alex Aciman/NYT Wirecutter The especially sloppy, exposed seams of a pair of made-in-Italy pajamas are a stark contrast. Alex Aciman/NYT Wirecutter The clean, covered seams of Muji's trunks. Alex Aciman/NYT Wirecutter
But what really made me fall in love with these trunks is the waistband. I never thought I could ever be moved to care about the waistband on a pair of boxers. And then I tried these.
Muji's boxers are the only ones I've ever seen that have an explicit mention of a reduced-tightness waistband in their product description. It is indeed the most comfortable waistband I've ever worn: It provides enough resistance to keep the trunks in place but has such a light touch that I never feel any actual pressure. The soft terry-like loops on the waistband of Muji's boxers. Alex Aciman/NYT Wirecutter
Cynically, I suspect that Muji used a cheap waistband and is marketing that decision as a feature rather than a bug. But in this case, I also believe that cheapness is a virtue; the most expensive boxers I've owned have covered waistbands with a strong elastic, and the result is infinitely less comfortable than the terry loops on Muji's low-resistance exposed waistband.
The comfortable waistband, along with the crisp, breathable fabric, makes these boxers feel airy and laidback in a way that mimics the leisure and aesthetic purposefulness of real pajamas. I never feel like I am using underwear for off-label purposes.
A nice-to-have would be the addition of a button at the fly, but its absence isn't remotely a dealbreaker.
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Travel + Leisure
2 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Has Comfy, Chic Travel Shoes Up to 50% Off
Cute shoes and comfortable shoes are a dime a dozen, but shoes that have a foot in both camps are rare gems. Unfortunately, shoes that are chic yet tolerable to wear for hours on end can cost a pretty penny, which is why we recommend keeping an eye out for opportunities to buy them at a discount. And as it just so happens, some of our favorite brands that combine comfort and style—like Rothy's, Vionic, Toms, and Sam Edelman—have a wide array of shoes heavily marked down for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Curious to know which styles we're shopping for ourselves? Keep scrolling for our 15 favorite travel shoe deals happening during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. This curated list includes ballet flats, slip-on sneakers, and sandals that are equal parts comfy and chic, with shoppers specifically calling out how versatile and supportive they are. On sale for 47 percent off, these timeless leather loafers from Sam Edelman have earned plenty of praise on the Nordstrom site for their comfort and style. Constructed with buttery genuine leather uppers and cushioned, padded insoles, these slip-ons 'might be the most comfortable shoe straight from the box,' wrote one shopper. Complete with a brass bit accent and a ruched toe box, these stylish loafers are the perfect companion for trousers, maxi skirts, and even jeans. Made with breathable knit uppers, a stretchy top strap, and anti-skid outsoles, these machine-washable Rothy's Mary Jane flats are as chic as they are comfortable. One shopper who now owns four pairs of Rothy's flats gave these Mary Janes a five-star rating for versatility. 'They have been a lifesaver this summer while I've been dealing with heel pain,' they wrote. 'Super comfortable and easy to dress up or down. I've worn them with everything from maxi dresses to sweatpants.' Don't let the slight heel and pointed toe fool you—these Naturalizer slingback flats are seriously comfy, according to multiple five-star reviewers. Available in six colors, these 42 percent-off flats come with contoured, cushioned footbeds and adjustable ankle straps to keep your feet secure all day. 'I had a conference to attend where I was on my feet for six hours a day and walking miles on hard convention center concrete floors,' wrote one five-star reviewer. 'These shoes were perfect.' Summer heatwaves are no match for these breezy flats from Dolce Vita. Currently $50 off during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, these flats have a woven knit mesh upper that promotes air flow, keeping your feet cool and comfortable on hot, sunny days. Available in half sizes and wide widths, all three colors of this flat—scarlet red, onyx black, and creme white—are on sale (while supplies last, of course). These simple yet stylish black Toms flats have a versatile silhouette that 'will go with everything,' according to one five-star reviewer, including 'long skirts, short skirts, jeans, cropped pants.' Made with a stretchy, elastic slingback strap and the brand's patented CloudBound foam cushioning, these $55 flats are comfortable to boot. If plain black flats aren't your style, they're also on sale in a daring leopard print, too. Much like the aforementioned Square Toe Mary Janes, these Rothy's flats are constructed with an elastic knit upper that stretches to fit your foot. Rather than a square toe, however, these ballet flats have a pointed toe that's still spacious enough to prevent your feet from scrunching up. The heel-to-toe cushioning and sculpted outsoles allowed one five-star reviewer to explore the streets of Paris 'for about 18,000 steps without blisters.' These flatform Mar sandals, made by podiatrist-approved and Oprah-loved brand Vionic, are built with thick, shock-absorbing soles and arch-supporting cushioned footbeds. Over 100 shoppers have given these sandals a perfect five-star rating for comfort, with one reviewer reporting that they received 'not a single blister' despite wearing them for 'miles and miles' in Italy. Previously $135, you can get these strappy sandals for just $68 during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Equipped with Naturalizer's signature cushioned footbeds, these Cece Mary Jane Mules are equal parts chic and comfortable. The adjustable buckle strap and square toe give these mules a versatile, contemporary look that'll suit everything from wide-leg trousers to boyfriend jeans. For a limited time only, you can save $45 on all four colors while they're marked down. These chunky platform sneakers have an elevated, preppy look that's worthy of a first-class upgrade. Made with breathable, soft knit uppers, padded collars, and thick, cushioned midsoles, these slip-ons are both 'practical and comfortable,' according to one five-star reviewer. Whether you're throwing them on last-minute to catch a flight or plan on clocking thousands of steps on a walking tour, these stylish sneakers will carry you the whole way. These puffy, cloud-like Olukai slides are made with a water-resistant fabric, so you can feel good about wearing them at the beach or poolside. The grippy rubber outsole prevents slipping, and the cushioned footbeds have arch support built in for long-lasting comfort. 'These sandals are a dream,' wrote one five-star reviewer who wore them on a vacation while seven months pregnant. 'Worth the money!' Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
New York Times
a day ago
- New York Times
We Need to Talk About the $75 Tank Air Tank Top
A few testers, myself included, were taken aback by just how tiny the tanks looked out of the box. But don't fret: The fabric has plenty of stretch. Hannah Frye/NYT Wirecutter The Studio Tank and the Half Moon Halter (and a few other basics from Tank Air) are made of the same fabric, a blend of 88% polyester and 12% spandex. That fabric makeup is one of the main gripes that have surfaced in the Tank Air social media discourse, as polyester has a reputation for being cheaper in comparison with natural fibers such as cotton or silk. But in the hand, with just one smooth layer, it feels soft and substantial — as thick as a double-lined tank might feel. It certainly doesn't feel cheap. But that doesn't necessarily mean it's great quality. The fabric composition is 88% polyester 12% spandex (for reference, many leggings range from around 10% to 30% spandex). Hannah Frye/NYT Wirecutter To assess the fabric quality, I brought both tanks into the office of Preeti Gopinath, a textile designer and associate professor of textiles at Parsons School of Design in New York City. After feeling the tops and inspecting both their fabric and finishings, Gopinath said they are made with 'high-quality' polyester and knit in a very tight, compact manner. That tight knit, combined with the thickness of the polyester, is responsible for the tank tops' contouring effect and their ability to hold their shape after multiple wears. The edges and seams are finished neatly, both of which are signs of a well-made garment, she said. Based on her initial inspection, Gopinath said these tank tops have the potential to last quite a while, but she noted that longevity would require proper care. (According to the tag, you should machine-wash the tops on a delicate cycle and lay them flat or hang them to dry.) Functionally, the fabric also fared well against summer heat. Even in the humid New York City weather, this tank kept me relatively cool and dry considering how thick the fabric is. The polyester material effectively pulled sweat from my skin and allowed it to evaporate quickly, preventing the heavy, damp feeling I often experience with my 100% cotton tank tops. The tanks also survived multiple washes (and one accidental trip to the dryer) without pilling or losing their compressive shape. However, like many other articles made of soft fabrics, these tanks attracted lint and fuzz, which required occasional removal between wears. We haven't tested these tops for enough time to speak to their longevity, but they did resist initial wear and tear, feeling as good as new after a few weeks of consistent wear and washing. The compressive, body-hugging fit is comparable to that of an athletic tank top or ultra-comfortable shapewear but with a soft matte finish that gives it a more elevated look. 'It didn't, at all, look athletic-y or Spanx-y — there was none of that sheen that really bothers me,' said Wirecutter deputy director of newsletters and audience Sofia Sokolove. Every tester noted the body-hugging sensation as a win; one described it as 'waist-cinching,' and another deemed it 'shapely.' Some people hope that compressive tops like these can eliminate the need for a bra, and for the most part the Studio Tank delivered in that regard. All of the testers said the Studio Tank supported their chest even without a bra. Some considered the gentle support appropriate for wearing to the office, while others said it was acceptable only for more casual settings. Two panelists tested the white color (which Tank Air calls 'milk' on its website) and while one found it to be slightly see-through when worn without a bra, the other said it was perfectly opaque. The Half Moon Halter, however, didn't provide quite as much support or coverage as the Studio Tank, especially for testers with larger busts. Whether these tanks are fit for bra-less wear is ultimately a personal choice, but our panel did find the fabric to be quite supportive for a tank top, and the Studio Tank didn't reveal too much cleavage. Some people might argue these tops are too plain for the cost, but during testing our panel found their simple style to be a real benefit. Their straightforward design makes them especially easy to integrate into any wardrobe, improving their potential cost-per-wear. We tried them with everything from jeans and slacks to shorts and skirts, and they looked great worn alone (channeling a '90s minimalist vibe) or layered under button-ups and sweaters. Plus, the tanks come in a range of fun colors (something our panel enjoyed), should black or white seem too boring for a simple silhouette. The Studio Tank rode up as I walked. I have a long torso, so this unfortunately is pretty common with slightly cropped tops. But if you too have a long torso, take note. Hannah Frye/NYT Wirecutter The most common complaint testers expressed concerned the slightly cropped length, which falls somewhere between a true crop (which typically hits around the waist) and standard full-length. That crop caused fabric bunching around the waist for some testers and quickly became a nuisance for them to keep pulling down. 'It was a really, really awkward length for me — too long to be a crop top but too short and not stretchy enough on the bottom to fit over my hips,' said editor Hannah Rimm, whose waist is significantly more narrow than her hips. Personally, I found the tanks to be slightly too short for my long torso. They hit just below my belly button, which would be fine if they stayed put, but as I walked, the bunching began. For other testers, like Sofia, the length was just right: 'It hugged in all the right places and hit at exactly the right length,' she said, adding that it was long enough to wear with work-appropriate pants without showing midriff but not so long that it overlaid low-rise jeans or shorts. Whether this tank works for you depends on your body and your preferences, but getting the right size, of course, can help. If you're not sure what size to order, I suggest taking Tank Air up on its offer to help: According to the Studio Tank product page, you can send an email with your bust, waist, and height measurements to info@ and the company can assist in finding the right size for you. We, however, didn't test this service. The straps aren't adjustable, but they are quite stretchy. Hannah Frye/NYT Wirecutter Both tank tops have pre-fixed — but stretchy — straps. In terms of comfort, the Studio Tank fared well with those pre-fixed straps, but the Half Moon Halter less so; multiple testers, especially those with larger busts, wished for an adjustable tie-halter instead of the pre-fixed length. With halter tops, it's generally a bit harder to nail the perfect fit, and adjustability would have helped those testers find the right balance of support for their chest. That said, for some of our testers the lack of adjustable plastic clips on the Studio Tank earned style points. One of the common queries online is whether these tank tops are worth their $75 price tag. The answer depends on a few factors. To understand what goes into making these tops, I spoke with Claire Robertson-Macleod, the founder of Tank Air. She's aware of the consumer skepticism concerning polyester, she said, but she stands by her choice for the sake of performance. 'We tested a bunch of fabrics, including those with natural fibers, but this one was so superior,' she said, explaining that the polyester fabric stood out for its compressive fit, durability over time, and colorfastness. Her goal was to make a tank top that would be in a customer's weekly rotation and stay nice for years to come. If these tank tops do last many years, as Gopinath suspects and as the brand founder says, they may be well worth $75. That's especially true for people who frequently wear tank tops of this style and find themselves regularly replacing old ones that are faded or stretched out. NYT Wirecutter But, quality aside, for an expensive item such as the Tank Air, it's important to consider how often you'll wear a tank top like this. While it may be a wear-anytime staple for many people, it doesn't make sense in everyone's wardrobe. If you rarely wear tank tops like this — spaghetti straps, slightly cropped, body-hugging — it might not be worth spending $75 on. But if you have a graveyard of once-vibrant close-fitting tank tops living in your pajama drawer, it might be time to consider investing in a category you wear so often. And if the piece lasts longer, you could save money in the long run. Personally, as a frequent tank top wearer, I know that if I were to add up the price of my cheaper and shorter-lived tank tops from the past few years, the total would be well over $75. Although this tank isn't quite long enough for me to purchase myself, I wouldn't be opposed to investing in a longer version should one come out someday. It's comfortable, the fabric feels great, and the simple look is a perfectly versatile fit for my wardrobe. So if you're in the same boat, I'd say that the Tank Air Studio Tank is worth considering. While it is undeniably expensive, it could finally help you get off the unsustainable merry-go-round of frequently buying and discarding cheap, short-lived tanks. This article was edited by Hannah Rimm and Maxine Builder. Shapewear has deservedly gotten a bad rap. We were determined to find better options, and—after extensive testing—emerged with seven (actually comfortable) winners. After carefully scrutinizing fit, feel, quality, and style, we found four white tees that are the best suited for a variety of occasions and body types. Timeless and versatile, jeans are a key player in any wardrobe. We found ten pairs that fit a range of body types, tastes, and budgets. What I Cover Hannah Frye is a staff writer reporting on beauty and style for Wirecutter. She was previously an editor at Mindbodygreen. She has been using skin-care items since she was 11 (which, she says, is a fact, not a recommendation). When she isn't making new Pinterest boards or shopping for vintage clothes on eBay, she's testing vegan recipes in her Brooklyn apartment.
Forbes
5 days ago
- Forbes
Elevate Your Bedding With The Best Duvet Covers On Amazon
A duvet cover is a multi-purpose bedding accessory that blends comfort with function. It protects your comforter or insert from spills and accidents, while simplifying the cleaning process. Unlike a comforter, it's specifically designed for easy washing and maintenance. Amazon offers a wide range of options, from silky-smooth fabrics to colorful prints and everything in between. The best duvet covers on Amazon come from reputable and beloved brands in the industry and have thousands of glowing customer reviews to co-sign their comfort. Our top choice is the Luxe Sateen Duvet Cover from Brooklinen, which has a buttery-soft sateen weave and luxurious feel that's true to its name. The best duvet covers on Amazon are made with high-quality materials and take the hassle out of ... More cleaning your bedding. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILER The right duvet cover can make a huge difference for the look and feel of your bed, and varies depending on the type of materials used and weave pattern. In our roundup below, we highlight duvet covers on Amazon made from popular bedding materials like cotton and linen, options for hot sleepers and solid value picks. For more shopping advice on bedroom accessories, see what our editors named as the best down comforters and best sheets . Material: Cotton | Colors: 10 colorways | Thread count: 480 | Weave: Sateen Pros: Soft, smooth texture with a high thread count Oeko-Tex certified Buttons and corner ties Cons: Sleeps warmer than percale Brooklinen is one of our favorite bedding brands at Forbes Vetted for its quality products and value. Its Luxe Duvet Cover is made with premium 100% long-staple cotton and features a sateen weave that provides a soft and buttery feel with a subtle sheen. It has a 480-thread count, which contributes to its overall coziness. 'The first time I tried Brooklinen's bedding, I fell in love,' says our tester. 'After seeing how the Luxe not only elevated the look of my bedding but was super soft and cozy, I knew it was there to stay.' She also mentions it looks good as new after each wash, and 'putting the duvet cover back on the insert is easy,' thanks to its oversized buttons and corner ties. Material: Tencel lyocell from Eucalyptus | Colors: Blue, gray, pink or white | Thread count: 300 | Weave: Sateen Pros: Breathable for hot sleepers Oeko-Tex certified, made with sustainable materials Buttons with envelope closure Cons: Limited color options on Amazon (more available on Buffy's site) Some customers say it's oversized Buffy has somewhat of a cult following thanks to its Breeze Cloud Comforter that utilizes eucalyptus, a more sustainable and environmentally friendly material than cotton since Eucalyptus trees use less water and pesticides to grow. It's also great at regulating temperature and wicking away moisture. The Breeze Duvet Cover uses the same eucalyptus-based material, with a soft and smooth sateen weave that delivers a relieving and subtly cool-to-the-touch feel. We see it appealing to most people, but especially hot sleepers and eco-conscious shoppers. Even the buttons are naturally sourced and made from corozo nuts. Material: Cotton | Colors: 41 colors | Thread count: 184 | Weave: Percale Pros: Standard and unconventional sizes available (including oversized queen) Large variety of colors to pick from Has a comfortable textured waffle pattern Made with breathable percale cotton Cons: Not as soft as a sateen duvet cover No twin XL or split king sizes Make your mattress feel like a high-end resort and spa with a waffle-textured duvet cover that's made with 100% cotton and a crisp percale weave, making it more breathable and lightweight than covers with a sateen weave pattern. It features a hidden button closure with eight ties on the inside to secure your insert or comforter (as opposed to the standard four), and can be thrown in the washing machine for easy maintenance. Pro tip: I've had 100% cotton, waffle-textured products shrink after a wash and dry cycle, and some customers mention their duvet is too small for their insert. So I recommend you opt for the oversized queen or king, or tumble dry on low to avoid shrinkage. Material: French linen | Colors: 9 colorways | Thread count: N/A | Weave: Patented (LuxeWeave) Pros: GOTS-certified French linen sourced in small batches Breathable feel ideal for hot sleepers Stonewashed for softness Hypoallergenic Cons: No twin, twin XL or split king sizes Sijo is a luxury bedding brand that values sustainability, and the brand's linen set is one of the nicest you can find on Amazon. It sources its 100% organic French linen material in small batches from Normandy, France, a region famous for its premium linen. This bedding is stonewashed and free of bleaches or dyes, so your sheets feel soft and mattress-ready straight out of the package. Plus, linen only gets softer with each cycle. It holds your comforter in place with eight corner loops on the inside and features buttons made from natural coconut shells to close the duvet. Material: Viscose derived from bamboo | Colors: 7 colorways | Thread count: 1,600 (according to the brand) | Weave: Not listed Pros: Zipper closure for ease of use Bamboo material is cooling and moisture wicking Silky-smooth feel Cons: Bamboo material is more prone to wrinkles Another great value, this bamboo duvet cover from Hotel Sheets Direct has a 4.4-star rating on Amazon with hundreds of 5-star reviews. It's made from bamboo viscose, which offers a silky-smooth feel, and is Oeko-Tex certified to be free from harmful substances. Bamboo is also ideal for hot sleepers and warm climates, as it's superior at wicking away moisture and allowing airflow. For those tired of messing with duvet ties and buttons, this duvet design also features an easy-to-use zipper closure. Our experienced editors and writers have contributed hundreds of articles to our mattress and sleep category, covering topics ranging from the best mattresses for side sleepers to how to feng shui your bedroom . Each subject we report on is researched extensively, and we rely on our industry knowledge and trusted experts to help inform our articles. McKenzie Dillon is the author of this story, and she is a mattress and sleep editor at Forbes Vetted with a sleep science coach certification. She has been testing mattresses, bedding and other sleep products for six years and has personal experience with top-rated brands we listed in our roundup. Bridget Chapman is the senior mattress and sleep editor at Forbes Vetted with a sleep science coach certification. She oversees the mattress and sleep category and helps approve the products we choose to highlight. We spoke with Lauren Wood, co-founder of sustainable and ethically made linens company Sirimini, on different bedding materials and important factors to consider when shopping for a duvet cover. Products listed in each best list are chosen by our editors and contributors based on a variety of factors. We first consulted with our team who has personal experience with duvet covers from Amazon and asked for their top tested recommendations. We considered duvet covers from well-loved brands that we have experience with that are reputable and offer high-quality products. We searched through hundreds of customer reviews to determine the upsides and drawbacks to each product, and if we think they're worth the money. We only considered duvet covers with a 4-star rating or higher on Amazon. We took important features into account such as materials used, thread count, weave and notable certifications. A duvet cover can change the feel of your bedding and make a difference in how comfortable you sleep depending on your needs and preferences. The most common materials used include cotton, linen, bamboo and polyester. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are better at regulating temperature and help wick away moisture, while polyester is an affordable and wrinkle-resistant material. However, synthetic materials restrict breathability, which makes it 'more difficult for our bodies to regulate temperature, resulting in overheating and restless nights sleep," says Lauren Wood, co-founder of sustainable and ethically made linens company Sirimini. Weave This refers to the way a fabric's thread pattern is woven, and it also contributes to the overall feel of your duvet cover. Duvets with a percale weave feel more crisp, lightweight and fresh like a high-end hotel sheet. Bedding with a sateen weave tends to be softer, more buttery and gives off a subtle sheen, but it generally sleeps warmer than percale. Thread Count Thread count is a common measurement when it comes to bedding that helps indicate quality and weight. Wood says, 'In hot weather, an organic cotton percale with a thread count of 200 to 400 would be a good choice; the lower thread count benefits sleepers because of their lower density and higher breathability.' Sheets with a higher thread count, on the other hand, are generally softer to the touch and more substantial in weight. That said, thread count is not the only factor to consider, and not all fabrics use it as a measurement. Closure Style One of the biggest grievances people have with duvet covers is how difficult it is to secure an insert or comforter inside. Take a duvet cover's closure style into consideration when narrowing down a purchase since it can help determine its ease of use. The simplest style is a zipper closure, as featured on the Hotel Sheets Direct Set, but the most popular styles are corner ties and buttons. What Is The Best Quality Material For Duvet Covers? The best quality material for duvet covers largely depends on personal preferences and needs. Natural fibers like cotton, bamboo and linen are popular choices for their breathability and softness. What Do Hotels Use For Duvet Covers? Hotels often use bedding that is made with cotton. Some hotels use an actual duvet cover, but it's common to see two flat sheets sandwiching a duvet insert instead of a duvet cover—it's more efficient to change between guests and more cost-effective since hotels buy bedding in bulk. How Do I Choose A Duvet Material? Hot sleepers do best with a lightweight and breathable material such as linen, cotton with a percale weave, viscose or lyocell. If you like a smoother, softer material, then you may prefer cotton with a sateen weave.
