COMFORT IS THE NEW CHIC: WHY PRIORITIZING COMFORTABLE FASHION IS ESSENTIAL FOR YOUR MENTAL & PHYSICAL HEALTH

By: Srishti Sharma

Fashion is no longer just about looking good - it's about feeling good too. In recent years, there has been a shift towards comfortable fashion, with designers and consumers embracing the idea that clothing should be both stylish and practical. Gone are the days when fashion was synonymous with pain and discomfort. Not only does comfortable fashion make you feel good and relaxed, but it also has significant benefits for your mental and physical health.

Here we explore how ‘casualization’ of wardrobes can elevate not just physical comfort but psychological comfort too.

Tight clothing and high heels have been known to cause a range of physical problems, from back and neck pain to blisters and calluses. Comfy clothing made from breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen, cushioned soles, and loose-fitting designs on the other hand can help prevent skin irritation and infections, back, neck and shoulder pain, overheating, swelling and edema, and can promote better blood circulation. Streetwear has become increasingly popular in mainstream fashion. Often characterized by oversized clothing, comfortable fabrics, and utilitarian design, this trend has influenced high fashion designers to create collections that prioritize comfort and functionality, while still maintaining a high level of style.

Studies have shown that when we dress comfortably and feel comfortable in our own skin, our cognition is increased. Choosing comfortable clothing can boost your confidence and self-esteem, as well as promote relaxation and ease. Being comfortable in your outfit can reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to focus on the important things in life. Also, clothing that fits well and makes you feel good can promote positive body image and improve self-acceptance. Many people are now embracing their natural body shapes and sizes, and comfortable fashion allows them to dress in a way that is both stylish and flattering, without sacrificing comfort.

Additionally, with consumers becoming more aware of the impact of fast fashion on the environment, they are looking for more sustainable options. Sustainable fashion often prioritizes comfort, with clothing made from natural fibers and designed for durability. As consumers demand more sustainable options, designers are incorporating comfort into their designs in order to create clothing that is both fashionable and environmentally responsible.

This notable shift with more and more people opting for clothing and footwear that foster ease of movement has been driven by changes in lifestyle and work habits. Overall, there is a growing preference for fashion that balances style with comfort and functionality. Sales of athleisure clothing, such as sweat pants, joggers is on a rise and the trend has even begun to trickle down to the couture world. Stretchy fabrics, flat ballerinas, sneakers, comfy co-ord sets, and breezy rompers have been making appearances at the runway be it in London, Paris or Milan.

Rather than dress to impress, the easy to wear look is fast becoming a big trend. Of course, people still want to look well turned out but they have gained confidence to decide on products they feel good in and like wearing. Comfort is no longer a trend - it's a way of life. The fashion industry is embracing this shift towards comfortable clothing, creating designs that prioritize both style and practicality. As consumers become more aware of the impact of their clothing choices, sustainable and comfortable fashion will become increasingly important. Whether it's athleisure, sustainable clothing, or streetwear-inspired designs, the new face of fashion is all about embracing comfort and practicality without sacrificing style.