CASUAL CULTURE - Comfort and Security over everything
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Who knew that attending a zoom meeting in
your pajamas to discuss important business matters will become the new normal?
Even News Anchors across the globe have converted their studies, kitchens, and
dens into makeshift offices. On top of that, the bonus is that all you are
required to sport is a nice top and a somewhat presentable face. Feels like a
Sunday everyday kinda moment.
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Photo by Tookapic |
The pandemic has made a major impact on our
lives and led to several changes, for better or worse making 2020 a very
challenging year. One of them, amongst others, was opting for comfort during
lockdowns and restricted life, which led to the rise of casual culture.
Considering the fear, immense stress, and limitations everyone was going
through dressing up was not a priority. Opting for something comfortable came
naturally but turned into more. This terrifying past year has set priorities
straight for most of us if not all.
“Fashion is a potent visual marker of our
times,” says Caroline Stevenson, head of cultural and historical studies at
London College of Fashion. “Trend analysis of any given era will reveal
society’s values and aspirations.” Let’s take this quote and understand it
better by taking both World Wars under consideration. Due to scarcity of
resources and limited funds luxury was not a priority thus shifting focus
towards a more practical, simple, or/and even pre-loved apparel.
We saw a similar trend unfolding during the
pandemic and fashion brands caught on. Fashion and style took a more practical
turn but there was also an added element of security as well. Masks are now a
common and crucial accessory. A lot of loungewear collections were launched, and
of course, masks were quick to follow the lead to join the trend circle.
Dressing up to go out and be seen is no longer a priority for most. When engulfed with global turmoil what we seek the most is comfort. There have been more purchases of sweatshirts and loungewear in 2020 than any other fashion item. Individuals even opted for thrift because it gave them a feeling of worn and cosy. It gave your mind a little ease through your physical easement. Caroline Stevenson sums it up quite well; “Clothes will become more an extension of our homes, offering comfort and reliability amidst global turbulence”.
NOTE: This article was originally published in pnkandco.com, a lifestyle, and entertainment website currently on hiatus.