British Slippers, Robes & Loungewear the Royals Favour
From Cornish sheepskin slippers to Scottish cashmere and Lancashire linen, here is the cosiest end of British heritage, and the makers behind it.
When the evenings draw in and the first fires are lit, there is nothing more British than getting properly cosy. And while royal life is often pictured in tiaras and tailoring, the best of British heritage has a wonderfully comfortable side too: sheepskin slippers, soft knitwear, beautifully made nightwear and crisp, cool linen. Here is our guide to the cosiest end of the royal wardrobe, and the heritage makers behind it.
A quick word on “royal favourites”
Some of the brands below hold Royal Warrants, which means they have supplied goods or services to the Royal Household. Others are simply British makers with a long tradition of craftsmanship. We have noted which is which, so you know exactly what you are buying into.
Sheepskin slippers: the foundation of a cosy evening
Few things beat slipping your feet into warm sheepskin after a long autumn day. British sheepskin is naturally thick, warm and hard-wearing, and it regulates temperature, which keeps feet cosy in winter without overheating.
One of our favourite British makers is Celtic & Co., which has handcrafted sheepskin boots and slippers in its workshop in Newquay, Cornwall, since 1990. The company uses sheepskin sourced from the UK farming industry, and its range runs from classic bootee slippers to mules and slides. Celtic & Co. also holds a King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category, one of the highest official awards for British businesses. Most of its slippers are machine washable on a wool cycle, which is a lovely practical touch.
What to look for: A thick sheepskin lining, a sturdy sole if you plan to pop outside, and a fit that is snug rather than tight. Sheepskin stretches slightly with wear, so choose the size that fits comfortably from the start.
Cashmere and fine knitwear: loungewear with heritage
The cosiest loungewear starts with the right fibre, and Scotland and the English Midlands have been making it for centuries.
Johnstons of Elgin was founded in 1797 in Elgin, Scotland, and is the UK’s largest producer of luxury cashmere and fine woollens. The family-owned mill holds Royal Warrants from King Charles III: it was first appointed by the then Prince Charles for estate tweeds in 2013, and in 2024 it received further warrants from the King for knitwear and woven accessories. A soft cashmere wrap or throw is perfect for evenings on the sofa.
John Smedley has been making knitwear at Lea Mills in Derbyshire since 1784 and has been honoured with Royal Warrants as a manufacturer of fine knitwear. Its fine merino and wool-blend pieces are ideal as a lightweight layer for lounging, and they wash and wear beautifully.
How to wear it: For a polished loungewear look, pair a soft knit with matching trousers or leggings in a neutral palette. Swap in a heavier cashmere cardigan on the coldest nights.
Robes and nightwear: the British art of the pyjama
Nightwear is a British speciality. Derek Rose, the family-owned London brand, has been designing and making nightwear and loungewear since its founding family began in menswear in 1926, with the Derek Rose London label launched in 1975 and its manufacturing base in Congleton, Cheshire. It is best known for its pyjamas, robes and loungewear, and has dressed members of the British royal family.
How to choose a robe: Cotton and brushed cotton are cosy but breathable. Waffle robes suit a post-bath wrap. Silk is a treat for special mornings, and wool or cashmere blends give maximum warmth on a cold night. Look for deep pockets and a generous wrap.
Fresh linen for a cosy bedtime
A cosy evening ends with a lovely bed. Peter Reed, based in Lancashire since 1861, holds the Royal Warrant of Appointment as Manufacturers of Bed Linen to His Majesty King Charles III. The company produces bed, bath and table linens at its mill in Nelson, Lancashire, and is a beautiful choice if you want a taste of royal-standard sleep.
How to build your cosy corner
- Slippers by the door. Keep a pair of sheepskin slippers where you take your shoes off, and they become a daily ritual.
- A robe within reach. Hang it on the bathroom or bedroom door so it is ready the moment you need it.
- A throw on the sofa. A cashmere or wool throw is the quickest way to make a room feel autumnal.
- Soft knitwear on the shelf. Fold knits rather than hanging them so they keep their shape.
- Care for natural fibres. Wash cashmere and merino gently, lay flat to dry and store with cedar or lavender to deter moths.
Shop the cosy-up edit
A pair of Celtic & Co. handmade Cornish sheepskin slippers, a Derek Rose dressing gown, a Johnstons of Elgin cashmere wrap and a set of Peter Reed bed linen are all you need to start the cosy-up edit.
For more ways to cosy up, read The Complete Cosy British Home Guide for Autumn & Winter and our guide to British Candle & Home-Fragrance Houses.
Frequently asked questions
Are sheepskin slippers machine washable?
Many are. Celtic & Co. suggests most of its slippers can be washed on a gentle wool cycle at 30 degrees with a wool wash. Always check the care label first.
What is the warmest material for a dressing gown?
Wool, cashmere blends and brushed cotton are the warmest, while waffle cotton is lighter and more breathable.
Does a Royal Warrant mean a royal wears the product?
No. A Royal Warrant means the company has supplied goods or services to the Royal Household for a number of years. It is a mark of quality rather than a statement about any individual item.
Disclosure: Court & Capital is a participant in affiliate programmes, including the Amazon Associates Programme. If you buy through our links we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Mentions of Royal Warrants describe a company’s relationship with the Royal Household and do not imply endorsement of any particular product by a member of the royal family.
