The most coveted relationship we have today is the one with our pajamas. These soft cotton apparel have become an integral part of our life in a pandemic-infested world. From those stylish corporate blazers to comfortable t-shirts, there has been a major shift in our wardrobes.
The pandemic, like so many other domains, has altered our sense of fashion as well. It has thrown those top-notch high heel brands out of business and has paved the way for more functional shoes like sandals and crocs. In fact, while few are eager to get back to those death traps(high heels), many have vowed not to indulge in them ever again.
What’s Buzzing in Fashion Town?
In this battle for existence, who will survive – style or comfort? The only question looming large in the fashion world at this juncture. Since most millennials have already swapped the former for the latter, fashion designers and stylists are gearing up to keep up with the on-going trends.
The work-from-home culture has made working individuals from all around the globe to discard their formals and opt for more comfortable and breathable attire. Previously, an office cocktail party would have called for a new purchase. But now, people are pairing comfortable hoodies and sandals with those Zoom parties and seminars.
Talking to Deccan Chronicle, veteran designer Ritu Kumar has opined that the pandemic has given rise to the trend of need-based buying. Pay cuts and lack of employment have pushed people to reconsider their spending patterns. Many are eager to go back to the basics like ethnic Kurtis, as they provide a killing combination of comfort and low maintenance.
Good News for the Local Weavers
Your choice of comfortable clothes is not only changing your wardrobe but is also transforming the lives of hundreds of local weavers and artisans.
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Blending Sustainability And Fashion, She Is Giving Wings To Independent Rural Artisan Entrepreneurs
All this time, cooped up in their homes, people have realized the importance of sustainable fashion. That soothing texture of your mother or grandmother’s sari has never been more appealing! The new normal is forcing us to rethink our consumption patterns. Experts are predicting a huge comeback of hand-woven fabrics with minimum waste and maximum functionality. In fact, the Fashion Design Council of India has arranged for a Covid-19 fund to boost the businesses of local designers and artisans.
Historical Perspectives of the Style vs. Comfort Debate
Liberating oneself of uncomfortable style has been a burning issue for centuries.
The cutthroat competition between style and comfort has enough historical shreds of evidence. In the 1850s, women’s rights activists were successful in bringing forth comfortable trousers over tight-fitting dresses – a remarkably bold move at that time. Women’s fashion in America in the 1800s required them to seethe in discomfort under layers of corsets that ultimately led to ailments of the hip and spine! Thanks to Amelia Jenks Bloomer, Turkish pants saved the day amidst a mixture of ridicule and compliments.
The Final Verdict?
While it is still too soon for a formal prediction, current trends are pointing towards the subtle victory of comfort fashion. Though there is no real replacement for stylish apparel during festivities, as far as office wear is concerned, the future of those corporate blazers and fitted, uncomfortable skirts look pretty bleak. While it is dangerously unconventional to walk into the office in pyjamas, future workstations will definitely have a dash of comfort and a stroke of cozy style to cheer up those dreaded conferences and monthly budget meetings.
What’s your preference – style or comfort?