The Fascinating History Behind Flapjack Pajamas

We’ve all been there: you get home from a long day, and all you want to do is throw on your favorite pair of jammies. But not just any jammies—no, we’re talking about the legendary, the cozy, the oh-so-comfortable flapjack pajamas. You know the ones. The ones that make you feel like you could curl up and nap for days without a care in the world. But have you ever wondered where these cozy masterpieces came from? Well, buckle up, pajama lovers, because it’s time for a little history lesson in comfy style!

A Brief (But Bouncy) Introduction to the Flapjack Pajama

First things first: flapjack pajamas aren’t just a cute name—they’re flap for a reason. If you’ve ever worn a pair, you know the back of the onesie is where the magic happens. There’s a little flap of fabric that, well, flaps open, letting you do your business with minimal fuss. We get it, you’re probably laughing right now, but really, it’s a stroke of genius. The history of this stylish, practical pajama innovation is a lot more interesting than you might think. Let’s dive into the past!

18th and 19th Century Origins

There were two notable people that contributed to the beginnings of long underwear. The one credited with the creation of them was John Smedley. In his textile mills in Matlock, Derbyshire (that’s England!), he manufactured these long underwear in the late 18th century. Their official website—yes, the company is STILL in business!—claims this: “ In 1784 our factory started life producing simple muslin fabric and spinning cotton, and in 1825 we moved on to producing more complex garments using one of the first ever fully fashioned knitting machines, creating the original “Long Johns.”

There was another figure in the textile world that also contributed to the design of long johns. Working successfully in the wool world, Charles E. Stanfield left his first business to his brother-in-law and established Truro Woolen Mills in 1870 in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Where Did They Come From?

Flapjack pajamas (also known as long johns or union suits back in the day) trace their origins to the early days of modern sleepwear. Way back in the 19th century, people were just starting to figure out how to stay warm and cozy while sleeping. And not to get all “grandpa-style,” but these pajamas were a game changer in the world of sleepytime fashion.

Before the flapjack was even a glimmer in someone’s eye, people were wearing long, buttoned-up onesies made of wool, flannel, or cotton to ward off the chill of winter. These early onesies were basically a full-body version of a sweater—warm, but not exactly stylish. Imagine wearing your dad’s old sweater that’s two sizes too big. Not the most flattering look, but it did the job.

Now, enter the magical, game-changing flapjack. By the 1920s and 1930s, these onesies evolved into something much more user-friendly. Flaps at the rear were added to the design—essentially creating the first “easy access” feature for adults (we’re looking at you, modern bathroom break technology). These flaps weren’t just a cute addition—they were practical! They made it easier for people to use the restroom without fully undressing, which was a huge deal when the only bathroom available was a chilly outhouse out back.

The Golden Age of Flapjack Pajamas

Okay, now let’s fast-forward to the 1950s and 1960s. These pajamas had hit their stride in the pajama world, and they were officially a cozy household staple. We’re talking about an era when kids were hopping out of bed to watch Saturday morning cartoons, and families would gather around the fireplace in their matching onesies. Picture it now: Dad in his flapjacks, sipping hot cocoa, trying to catch some z’s on the couch while the kids accidentally wake him up with their loud TV shows. That was the golden era of the flapjack.

Back then, flapjack pajamas were considered the ultimate in comfort. Made of thick flannel or soft cotton, they were both practical and stylish. They kept you warm during the coldest nights and didn’t require you to layer on a bunch of different clothing. Plus, they were perfect for those chilly nights when the house didn’t quite know if it wanted to be hot or cold.

The Return of the Flapjack: A Pajama Renaissance

In the early 2000s, just when we thought the world of pajamas had hit its peak (we were all about those fuzzy socks and oversized tees, right?), flapjacks made a triumphant comeback. And this time, they were cooler than ever. These pajamas were no longer just for your grandparents—they became a fashion statement. People started rocking them in all kinds of fun patterns: bears, moose, penguins, and of course, the ever-popular holiday-themed prints. Christmas, Halloween, or any excuse to wear your favorite pair became a moment of joy.

We took one look at the classic flapjack and said, “Let’s make these even comfier, and way more fun!” Today, our flapjack pajamas are a go-to for anyone who wants to combine comfort, style, and a dash of humor into their sleepwear. Whether you're chilling on a Saturday morning with your family or binge-watching your favorite show with a cup of tea, a pair of LazyOne flapjacks will keep you snug as a bug in a rug. And let’s be real: who doesn’t love a good pun on their PJs? Our onesies come with cute, clever designs that’ll have you grinning every time you slide into them.

The Flapjack Pajama Legacy

From their humble, practical origins in the early 20th century to their stylish revival today, flapjack pajamas have become a timeless classic in the world of sleepwear. Whether you’re looking for a cozy night’s sleep, a fun family holiday tradition, or just a good laugh at the dinner table (seriously, who doesn't crack up at the sight of a grown adult wearing a onesie with a butt flap?), these PJs have you covered.

So next time you slip into your LazyOne flapjack pajamas, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of cozy innovation you’re now part of. And if you’ve got a nap planned? Well, you’re already ahead of the game. Shop our selection of adult onesies and get ready for a cozy, comfy, flap-tastic snooze!