It is longer than most regular shirts, reaching down below the knees,[1] leaving some of the legs uncovered.
It is often referred to as a nightgown for men, but nowadays, nightshirts are an optional sleepwear for women too.
Until the 16th century men slept naked or in a day-shirt [citation needed][where?].
By the 19th century the nightshirt resembled a day-shirt with a loose, turned-down collar and similar length to a nightgown.
Like nightgowns, it is recommended to wear a robe or a dressing gown over them when expecting guests.