
What is a dressing gown?
Many of us have a dressing gown or two at home, but we don’t often stop to think about this handy, comfy garment we get so much use out of.
Some people wear dressing gowns every day after bathing or before getting dressed. Others wear them for longer periods while cosying up at home. Whatever your preference is, why not take a moment to learn a little more about the humble dressing gown?
What are dressing gowns?
Simply put, a dressing gown is a loose, long garment meant to be worn indoors. Typically reaching anywhere from mid-thigh to your knees, they come in a range of patterns and styles to suit all tastes. Depending on the exact design of your dressing gown, it might also feature:
- A sash or ribbon is used to cinch the robe closed at the waist - ideal for when you’ve just come out of the shower or bath and want something simple to wear before getting dressed properly.
- A hood - this can be a great addition if you’re looking for something to keep you warm and cosy around the house, helping to insulate your neck as well as your head.
- Pockets - while people don’t often need to carry lots around in their pockets when wearing a dressing gown, pockets are excellent for stashing away your phone, the TV remote or even some well-earned snacks!
In addition to all that, dressing gowns can feature purely stylistic features like tassels, embroidery, monograms or quilted lapels. When it comes to dressing gowns, the world is your oyster.

Is a bathrobe a dressing gown?
Some people use the terms bathrobe and dressing gown interchangeably, while others see them as entirely separate. It can be handy to know the distinction to avoid confusion when you’re looking for your next dressing gown, so you can be sure you’re getting the garment you had in mind.
Generally speaking, where it’s differentiated from a dressing gown, a bathrobe is a garment designed to be worn right after you get out of the bath or shower. As a result, it tends to be made using a soft, absorbent material that allows it to soak up excess moisture while you dry yourself off.
In contrast, a dressing gown would then refer to an item with little to no absorbent properties, designed to be worn either while you choose your outfit for the day or over the top of your nightwear or day clothes.
The difference can be hard to remember if you use the terms synonymously, but luckily the names themselves aim to help you get your head around it. A bathrobe is for use after getting out of the bath, while a dressing gown is for wearing while dressing.

What material are dressing gowns made of?
We’ve mentioned that dressing gowns or robes come in all kinds of styles and designs, but it’s also true that they can be made out of different materials. In the case of a bathrobe, an absorbent material is needed - usually some sort of terry cloth or cotton that dries easily and is comfortable to wear.
For dressing gowns - and now we mean the non-absorbent kind - there are two main types to choose from: the ultra cosy, fluffy kind, and the lighter, thinner, more elegant kind. Many people will have one of each or some other combination; the fluffier gowns are great for the winter months when more insulation is needed, while the lighter alternatives help you to stay fresh and cool in summer.
But what are they made of? Well, most commonly plush, thick dressing gowns are made out of cotton or cotton/polyester blends, though you can sometimes get them in wool or velvet if that’s your preference. These are materials designed to keep you snug on cold winter mornings and at night.
Lighter gowns focus more on elegance and style. They can be made of thinner cotton or cotton/polyester materials, or fabrics such as nylon, satin or silk. This is the most common type of dressing gown to feature intricate patterns or prints - in fact, it’s the closest a dressing gown gets to its outdoor-appropriate cousin, the kaftan!
Whether you have a particular best-loved style of dressing gown or you prefer to have different kinds on hand for different occasions, you’re sure to find one you love. And now you know more about the variety available, you might even find a new favourite!