Fashion in the Time of COVID-19

We've never spent more time at home than we do now. With only

essential services available, DIY projects have become king, be it making

your own sourdough or a linen button up. We're tidying up more, examining

our closets closely, and throwing out anything that doesn't spark that feeling

that may have evaded us these past months in lockdown.

Times are a-changing indeed as this pandemic continues progressing

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fashion and style along with it. With the restrictions on social

gatherings, complicated OOTD's have dwindled. Meanwhile, the already

conservative office wear has become even more utilitarian. Neat, affordable,

comfortable, easily washed, and disinfected has become the vogue.

Should we now expect the drab and institutional white and grey

replace colorful self-expression?

Though fashion indeed reflects the time and age, self-expression has

never been snuffed out by tragic world events. Instead of mirroring these

dark times, fashion was more a reflection of the inextinguishable human

spirit.

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For example, one might expect fashion in the aftermath of the First

World War to be extremely pragmatic and practical. Yet, the post-WWI world

saw the birth of clothing styles that would become classics down to our day,

especially in women's fashion. You've got the trench coat, sportswear, Coco

Chanel, and Maybelline.

Although the Spanish Flu brought the world to its knees in 1918, it was

followed by the birth of a new fashion culture that led to the roaring '20s and

the Jazz era. World War II also failed to obliterate our collective sense of style.

In fact, we've already seen a resurgence of post-WWII fashion in leisurewear, bolder female silhouettes, the pompadour, the double-breasted suit, and so

on.

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There's always that deep valley during and immediately after our

darkest times. However, as history has shown us, fashion and style - as does

mankind- always manages to bounce back stronger and more vibrant.

By no means are we suggesting that you dust off that double-breasted

jacket or radiant yellow sundress for your next grocery run. Keep things

simple, at least for now. Still, don't let that diminish self-expression.

Wear a simple white button-up with comfortable bottoms and

comfortable shoes. Carry a minimalist wallet with a smooth brown

leatherette.

Keep it in a practical sling bag in easily-washed canvas.

Better yet, bring a lightweight pouch in bright tropical colors.

Always wear a mask.

But, you're not just aiming to survive this pandemic. You want to thrive

as well, with the knowledge that the future will always be colorful.

Try to learn a skill, or two. Who knows, maybe you'll be starting your

own fashion line in the COVID-19 aftermath, a la Christian Dior post World

War II.

Athleisure was the

dernier cri

before the pandemic. Although everyone

is dressed more simply and more laid back now, you can be sure that we'll be

leaving this pandemic dressed with brighter prospects than how we came in.