10 Types of Robes and How to Choose the Right One

A robe is truly a woman’s best friend. Whether you’re coming home after a long workday or cozying up on a quiet morning, there’s nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a soft robe. Sometimes called dressing gowns, these must-have cover-ups provide warmth, coverage and comfort all in one.

Although everyone loves robes, it can be difficult to pick one that suits your needs. There are so many types of robes, each with unique fabrics, styles and lengths.

To help you choose a robe that feels cozy and confident, we’re listing the different types of robes and their uses.

• A robe is a loose-fitting cover-up that adds warmth on chilly mornings, gives you extra coverage as you get ready, or helps you dry off.

• There are many different types of robes, each with its own features, uses, advantages and drawbacks.

• When choosing a robe, consider your preferred length (short to long), fabric weight (lightweight to plush) and closure type (wrap, belt or zipper).

What Is a Robe?

A robe is a loose garment worn over sleepwear, loungewear or other comfortable clothes. It’s usually closed with a belt, tie or zipper. Robes are typically designed for at-home wear, but some options are fashionable enough for errands and neighborhood strolls.

Of course, there are a few different categories of robes. A robe is any flowy outer garment, while a bathrobe is made specifically to absorb water after bathing or showering. You might also hear the term “dressing gown,” which is the British word for a light cover-up worn while getting ready.

Whatever you call it, a robe is one of the comfiest options for unwinding in style.

Types of Robes at a Glance

Because there are so many types of robes for women, we thought we’d start with a quick breakdown of each one.

Shawl Collar Robes

With its curving, continuous turned-down collar that many associate with bathrobes, the shawl collar robe is a classic choice. These come in a variety of lengths and fabrics, so you still have several styles to choose from, even if you’re sticking to the basics. A cozy shawl collar robe is perfect for a morning coffee on the porch or some extra late-night warmth.

Kimono Robes

A kimono robe is a style of wrap robe inspired by the traditional Japanese garment and usually made of silk. Though these robes are traditionally floor-length, they’re available in long and short styles. Silk kimonos make a great accessory, whether you’re relaxing at home or spending the evening at a friend’s place. Softies doesn’t make a kimono robe, but the silky Dream Shawl Collar Robe offers a similar easy, draped wrap.

Key features:

• Flat collar

• Silk or cotton waffle weave fabric

Pros:

• Lightweight

• Airy

• Stylish

Cons:

• Not an ideal choice for warmth

• Less cozy than a thicker plush robe

• May need to be hand-washed if made from silk

Full-Length Robes

Full-length robes are long, sophisticated robes available in many different fabrics. These robes are terrific if you’re looking to stay warm or keep things modest, but they’re also great to wear open over pajamas or loungewear.

Shop Softies Ruffle Chenille Robe

Short Robes

A short robe is a more casual option that offers freedom of movement, and the fabric determines how warm it feels. This versatile staple is ideal for vacations, relaxing by the fire and spending quality time with family.

Key features:

• Knee-length or higher

• Belt

• Pockets

Pros:

• Easy to move in

• Works year-round, depending on the fabric

• Machine washable

Cons:

• Less leg coverage

Softies picks:

• Serenity 42” 3/4 Sleeve Zip Robe

• Rib Dream 35” Cap Sleeve Robe

• 36” Ruffle Chenille Robe

Hooded Robes

Hooded robes vary in length and material, but are defined by their hood. They’re perfect when you’re stepping out of the shower with wet hair, cozying up after a bath or looking for a little extra warmth. Softies doesn’t currently make a hooded robe, but a hooded lounger from our Marshmallow collection is an excellent pullover alternative.

Key features:

• Hood 

• Belt

• Pockets

• Cuffed sleeves

Pros:

• Keeps you warm

• Stylish and fun

• Machine washable

Cons:

• Not ideal for warm weather

Softies picks:

• 42” Marshmallow Hooded Lounger

• Terry Hooded Lounger

Zipped Robes

If you’re looking for a modern spin on an old-time favorite, a zip-up robe might be for you. These robes offer ease, convenience and all-around comfort. They’re especially handy if you don’t feel like fussing with belted robes.

Key features:

• Zipper

• Shin- or ankle-length

• Long sleeves

Pros:

• Stays on your body snugly

• No hassling with a belt

• Machine washable (Note: Zip up your robe before washing to avoid damaging the fabric.)

Cons:

• May be difficult to put on and take off if zippers are challenging for you

Softies picks:

• DreamPlush Zip Robe

• Serenity Shear Mink Zip Robe

Plush Robes

Looking for the warmest robe to snuggle into? Plush robes are soft, thick cover-ups that will keep you cozy and toasty. Softies’ Marshmallow robes are smooth and buttery-feeling, while our DreamPlush collection is ideal if you want the softest robe. (Learn more about both fabrics in our Marshmallow vs. DreamPlush comparison.)

Bed Jackets

Bed jackets are styled like jackets, but they’re softer, more breathable and don’t have a zipper or drawstring. They’re perfect for when you’re lying in bed and want some coverage without the bulk or warmth of a traditional robe. 

Terry Robes 

Absorbent terry robes pair well with your favorite loungewear set, and they come in a variety of lengths and styles. Terry robes are great for any occasion, whether you’ve just rolled out of bed or are drying off after a shower. Softies doesn’t make a terry robe, but our Terry collection includes a hooded lounger and lounge sets in plush, high-pile terry.

Shop the Terry Hooded Lounger

Key features:

• Soft, absorbent terry fabric

• Belt

• Pockets

• Collar

Pros:

• Lightweight

• Machine washable

• Durable

Cons:

• Less soft than other options

Softies picks:

• Terry Hooded Lounger

• Terry Cropped Sleeve Crew Neck with Wide Leg Pant

Satin and Silk Robes

Silk and satin robes often complement lingerie, but they can also be worn as an accessory over loungewear or pajamas. These stylish, lightweight cover-ups make for some of the best summer robes and are a luxurious addition to any wardrobe. Nowadays, you can also find silky-soft robes that make the smooth, glossy feel of natural silk more accessible. Softies doesn't currently offer robes in silk or satin, but the Serenity Wrap Robe is a super soft alternative that still gives you that luxurious feel. 

Shop the Serenity Wrap Robe

Key features:

• Silk or satin fabric

• Belt  

Pros:

• Elegant and stylish

• Versatile

• Lightweight

Cons:

• Not ideal for cold weather

• Delicate fabric

• Often requires hand washing

Softies pick:

• Serenity Wrap Robe (for a silky-soft drape without hand washing)

How to Choose the Right Robe

With so many options, choosing the perfect women’s luxury robe (or any robe, for that matter) can feel challenging. So, as you explore robe types, think about what kind of features you’re looking for:

• The length: Do you want a short robe that lands around mid-thigh, a knee-length robe or a longer, ankle-length option?

• The fabric weight: Do you prefer a lightweight feel? Think Dream Jersey or Rib Dream. A mid-weight cover-up? Check out Serenity or Chenille fabrics. Or how about an ultra-cozy robe? Try Marshmallow or DreamPlush.

• The closure type: Do you like the classic look of a wrap or set-in belt, or the convenience of a zippered robe?

Still not sure which robe to pick? Consider when and why you’d wear it:

• For cold mornings, there’s nothing quite like a full-length Serenity Shear Mink Zip Robe.

• For warm climates, a shorter robe, like the lightweight Rib Dream 35” Cap Sleeve Robe, may be more comfortable.

• For easy on and off, reach for a zip-up option, such as our DreamPlush Zip Robe.

• For a gift when you’re unsure of size, choose a style in combined sizes like S-M and L-XL, such as the Marshmallow Wrap Robe.

• For him, explore men’s robes, including the Take 10 Men’s Ribbed Marshmallow Robe.

How to Care for Your Robe

If you’re planning to buy a nice robe, you need to know how to wash delicate fabrics without damage. Always check the care label first, then follow these general tips to keep your robe in tip-top shape:

• Zip before washing (if applicable)

• Machine wash on cold

• Choose a gentle cycle

• Wash with similar colors

• Use mild detergent

• Use low heat only when the care label allows it; DreamPlush styles call for no heat or air drying

• Remove promptly when tumble drying

• Avoid bleach

When you take good care of your robe and use the best laundry detergent, it’ll stay soft wash after wash.

Sink Into Ultimate Comfort With Softies

Ready to get cozy? Softies’ extensive robe selection has you covered! Whether you’re looking for something light and airy or fluffy and warm, we have a long-lasting robe that’s perfect for you. 

Our quality robes, sleepwear and loungewear are designed to keep you comfortable, relaxed and stylish. To experience the Softies difference, try one of our ultra-cozy, fan-favorite robes today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a robe and a bathrobe?

The bathrobe vs. robe question is simple: “Robe” is the overarching category, whereas a bathrobe is a specific type of robe made to absorb moisture after bathing.

What is a dressing gown?

A dressing gown is essentially the British term for “robe,” but it has a slightly different meaning. While a robe can refer to any long, loose-fitting cover-up, a dressing gown is usually for getting ready.

What type of robe is the warmest?

Long robes made from thick, plush fabrics provide plenty of warmth on cold days. One of the best winter robes is the Serenity Shear Mink Zip Robe, with its long sleeves and buttery-soft Serenity fabric.

What is the softest robe material?

If you’re after cloud-like softness, you can’t go wrong with our DreamPlush collection. This warm, luxurious fabric makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket all day!

What length robe should I get?

The ideal length depends on your height, style preferences and the climate you live in. In general, longer robes are better for colder weather since they provide more coverage, while shorter robes suit warmer climates.

Is a zip-up robe better than a wrap robe?

One isn’t better than the other; they’re just different! A zip-up robe is more convenient to put on and take off, while a wrap robe has that classic belted look.