The COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot about society as we know it, especially through ways we express ourselves, such as fashion. As our time spent inside our homes has increased, the need for clothes that make fashion statements has substantially decreased.
I vividly reflect on the blissfully naïve days of late 2019 and early 2020 as I scroll through my camera roll and see the Aaliyah-inspired outfit that I wore to a 2000s throwback party. Which consisted of a button-down jean shirt with a bandeau top underneath paired with oversized joggers or the astonishing faux fur vest that I paired with snakeskin ankle boots to channel my Hot Girl Summer vibes for KSU’s homecoming concert with Megan Thee Stallion.
Now I think about present me, the girl who wakes up every morning to the challenge of choosing between several pairs of leggings to go with a random shirt pulled out of the drawer and wondered how the transformation came about so quickly. Without dinner gatherings, concerts, weddings, conferences, happy hours, vacations, and countless other social activities, there aren’t many occasions left for which to dress, and it’s been a hard goodbye to all the clothes we loved before. Here are some ways in which fashion has transformed during the illustrious reign of Ms. Rona.
- Loungewear & Pajamas
Loungewear was one of the hottest commodities of 2020 and continues to be a trend in 2021. Likewise, pajamas are no longer just for sleeping, thanks to quarantine. Comfy sets have sold so much online and in stores that they are seemingly the new stay-at-home uniform. Even a day of work has become more relaxing as many of us have been able to do it from home. Comfort is the best policy!
2. Slippers
For most of us, spending more time at home has meant putting our heels and dress shoes back in the closet in exchange for a pair of cozy slippers. They became a rave during the holidays that many styles sold out. Ugg’s Fluff Yeah style has been a major must-have item, and thousands of reviews show that they are worth every penny spent.
3. Face Masks
With the rise of COVID cases, face masks have become a regular clothing item for us. These days, it’s common to have to go back inside the house before running errands due to forgetting to grab our face masks. Some people even keep multiple in their car! The good news about them being around for so long is that now we can find ones with more style and versatility.
4. Tie-Dye
Interestingly enough, tie-dye fabrics have also been a rising fashion trend as we have all looked for ways to stay entertained at home. While it was commonly used for elementary school field day shirts in the past, we are now seeing it worn by people of all ages and in various clothing items from hats to sneakers. The surge of tie-dye among society has caused DIY kits to sell out at almost every retailer.
Denied our usual outlets for self-expression, we are all finding ways to cope. Even when the only eyes many of us regularly encounter are those of our partners, families, or pets, it’s the absence of others’ gaze that can throw us off balance. COVID-19 has changed fashion trends in so many ways. While there is no reconciliation on who we’ll be and what we’ll wear on the other side, I can only hope it’ll consist of stunning bedazzled blazers! Stay safe and stay trendy!