A Christmas Eve box is a small gift box opened on the evening of 24 December, usually holding new pyjamas, something cosy, a treat and something to watch or read. It is best known as a family tradition for children, but plenty of adults now make one for a partner, a friend or themselves. The simplest way to build one for her is around one good piece of nightwear.
What to put in a Christmas Eve box
Most boxes follow the same four-part formula:
- Something to wear tonight: new pyjamas or a nightshirt, the centre of the box.
- Something cosy: a robe, slippers or socks.
- Something to eat or drink: hot chocolate, a mug or a small box of chocolates.
- Something to do: a film to watch together, a book, a candle or a puzzle.
Spend most of the budget on the first item. It is the one she will keep wearing long after Boxing Day.
Nightwear for the box
Pyjamas with a little detail
The Irall Pandora pyjamas are a long-sleeved, long-leg set in soft stretch viscose, with kimono sleeves and a strip of lace down the sides. They come in black and in ecru, in sizes S to XXL.
Cotton for comfort
If she prefers cotton, the Beauty Night Margot set is a relaxed two-piece in black cotton, with floral lace edging, rolled kimono sleeves and a drawstring waist.
A nightshirt instead of pyjamas
Nudea's Maxi Shirt is a long nightshirt in 100% organic cotton, with mother-of-pearl buttons and side slits, in white or navy stripe. It works as well on Christmas morning as it does in the box.
Plus sizes
Shirley of Hollywood's rayon jersey sleepshirt comes in sizes 1X to 3X, in teal and magenta. For more choice, see our plus size nightwear guide.
Something cosy
A satin dressing gown turns the box into a set. The Irall Elodie is a knee-length satin gown with embroidered lace across the shoulders, in plum, navy and azure blue. Satin is light rather than warm, so add socks or slippers if her house runs cold. The full range is in our satin dressing gowns.
Small extras that fit in the box
- A pair of opaque tights for her Christmas Day outfit, such as Gabriella's 60 denier black microfibre tights.
- Hot chocolate, marshmallows and a favourite mug.
- A Christmas film, a new book or a scented candle.
- A handwritten card. It costs nothing and is often the part that gets kept.
Getting the size right without asking
Check the label of pyjamas she already wears and note the UK size rather than S, M or L, because brands differ. Our Christmas nightwear sizing guide explains how to translate it, and you have 14 days to change your mind if the size is wrong.
Putting the box together
Use a sturdy box with a lid, line it with tissue paper and place the nightwear on top so it is the first thing she sees. Order early in December to leave time for delivery and for any size swap. Our parcels arrive in plain outer packaging, so the surprise survives the doorstep.
Frequently asked questions
When do you open a Christmas Eve box?
On the evening of 24 December, usually before bed, so the new pyjamas can be worn that night.
Are Christmas Eve boxes only for children?
No. Adult boxes swap toys for nicer nightwear, a robe and a treat to share, and they make a thoughtful gift for a partner or a friend.
What do you put in a Christmas Eve box for a woman?
New pyjamas or a nightshirt, something cosy such as a robe or socks, a treat like hot chocolate, and something to do, such as a film or a book.
How much should a Christmas Eve box cost?
There is no rule. Set a budget first and put most of it into the nightwear; the extras can come from your kitchen cupboard.
Browse our pyjamas and gifts for her to start your box.