Sweet dreams are made of these: boys pyjamas – in pictures

If ever there was an item of clothing that summed up everything that’s brilliant about Christmas, it is a set of cotton pyjamas designed for a small person. What other rocket-print top or checked flannel trouser has the power to conjure up the unbridled excitement that is Christmas morning?

Pyjama top (part of a set), £18, by Their Nibs.
Pyjama bottoms (part of a set), £14, by Bhs.
Underpants £6 for a set of two, by Cath Kidston.
Velvet cape made to order (price on request), by Dinah’s Fairies. Photograph: David Woolley

But not any old pyjamas. Fireman Sam and Peppa Pig may well do a brilliant job of keeping the children entertained year round, but when it comes to Christmas they shouldn’t be appearing on sleepwear. That just brings to mind the spirit of cynical marketing – not the warm, loving, family spirit that you’re aiming for (however much of a pipe dream that may be).

Pyjamas from £18, from Next. Photograph: David Woolley

No, the best pyjamas are those that are printed with cute but anonymous pictures, or that come in traditional checks. If that sounds a bit prescriptive, well, it probably is, but warm and fuzzy has a particular look – one we can all spot a mile off. Why else would John Lewis put their little Christmas advert boy in checked, brushed-cotton traditional jimjams?

Dressing gown £12-£14 (depending on size), by Marks & Spencer.
Pyjama top (part of a set), £18, and trousers £35, both by Their Nibs.
Dino wellies £11-£12, from Next. Photograph: David Woolley

Everyone likes to dress up for an occasion, and for a little boy (and for little girls, too, though the pyjama’d hero pictured on these pages is called Max) there is no occasion more exciting than the 10 minutes he spends ripping open his new toys. And at Christmas, if your pjs are perfect, then that’s even more reason not to waste important playing time by getting dressed at all.

Pyjama top (part of a three-pack), £19-£21, from Next.
Pyjama bottoms (part of a set), £18, from Their Nibs.
Cardigan £192, by Bonpoint. Photograph: David Woolley

Tweed jacket £45, by Their Nibs.
Long-sleeve top £18, by Cath Kidston.
Pyjama bottoms (part of a three-pack), £19-£21, and dino wellies, £11-£12, both from Next. Photograph: David Woolley

Pyjama top (part of a set), £20, from Cath Kidston.
Jeans (just seen), £103, by Bonpoint.

Photographs: David Woolley at Angeli & Co. Styling: Gea Pereira. Grooming: Esther Chandler. Model: Max Hind. Photograph: David Woolley