Fashion is an ever-changing industry, but in recent years, it has undergone an unprecedented shift. The stiletto-and-corset era has passed, and its crown has been assumed by the sneakers-and-athleisure phase.
Comfort is steadily becoming the new vogue. Which raises the question: How did comfort manage to dethrone the knife-sharp silhouettes and “no pain, no gain” attitude of centuries of fashion?
The Advent of Athleisure
Changes in societal values often catalyze shifts in fashion trends. For example, changes in what the world deemed ‘masculine’ in the 19th Century saw men shift from opulent displays of wealth and charisma through colorful clothing, jewellery, and wigs to more muted attire that conveyed restraint, strength, and emotional control. So, it’s perhaps no surprise that a society that underwent several pandemic-related lockdowns began to value the ability to be comfortable and confident in one’s own environment. It’s no coincidence that the term ‘athleisure’ began to gain traction around 2020. In the years since the pandemic, we’ve seen leggings, sneakers, and sweats hailed as comfortable fashion statements, appropriate for daily life and even the catwalk, as well as for the gym. This attitude even extends to underwear, with pieces like the SKIMS demi bra now considered appropriate outerwear in certain situations.
Increased Accessibility of High Street Brands
Previously, luxury in fashion implied exclusivity – haute couture and designer wear were symbols of status and wealth. Several high-street brands, however, have leveled the playing field by paving the way for affordable luxury. Brands such as Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo offer quality fashion items that combine style, comfort, and affordability. They’ve made desirable fashion accessible to everyone, demonstrating that comfort, cost-effectiveness, and contemporary style can coexist to create a new form of luxury.
Wellness & Self-Care Revolution
The wellness and self-care wave added significant momentum to the paradigm shift in fashion. This change emphasized the importance of feeling good over looking good. Comfort became more than a physical attribute, evolving into a mental and emotional benefit, and, from there, into a full lifestyle choice. And who can live a fully wellness-focused lifestyle in uncomfortable clothing? The athleisure revolution and the wellness and self-care revolution go hand in hand.
Advancement in Fabric Technology
Newer clothing technologies have paved the way for fabrics that not only look good but also feel incredible on the skin. Innovative materials such as modal, bamboo, and Tencel have soft textures and moisture-wicking properties, which help significantly when blending style with comfort. It’s now possible to make comfortable clothing in stylish fabrics that look good and perform well in ways that simply weren’t possible before. High-quality basics and everyday wear made with these new-age fabrics are redefining the concept of luxury, placing comfort at the forefront without sacrificing much in the way of style.
Conclusion
The adage “beauty is pain” appears to have been dismissed as a relic of the past. The evolution of comfort as a new luxury in fashion harmonizes the connection between appearance and well-being. It’s not just about donning a plush cashmere sweater or a pair of cozy joggers. It’s about integrating style, well-being, and inclusivity into a clothing line that articulates the contemporary narrative of luxury: one that promotes self-love, embraces diversity, and celebrates comfort. To sum it up, the fashion world is rediscovering ‘luxury’ in the comfy corners of our wardrobe.
