Formalwear Stages Workplace Comeback

Earlier this week, NPR talked to Lucy Kellaway, a London-based management columnist for the Financial Times, about a recession-induced trend of a "return of formal workplace wear." In the broadcast, Kellaway argues that, rather than dressing down as a result of the downturn, people are by and large stepping up their sartorial repertoire. She notes, at a recent conference where the "previous year [people were] looking really slouchy in chinos and polo shirts, this year every single one of them was in a jacket and a tie." So why the sudden push to for ironed shirts and finely cut suits? "All of us are trying to cling on to our jobs ... you feel more professional if you're not wearing the same clothes you wear to lounge about while watching TV in the evening," she argues, citing that she believes the idea of casual wear breeding creativity to be a total misapprehension.

Essentially, it’s all about “psyching yourself into a work state of mind,” says Kellaway, who, surprise, surprise, is no fan of “Casual Fridays.” As interesting as the broadcast itself is, the series of comments from listeners go to show that Kellaway’s concepts don’t fly with everyone. In a few cases, commenters take issue with Kellaway’s supporting a friend’s push for “High-heel Fridays” as opposed to “Casual” ones, citing the accessory’s association with what men (not women) want. Not to mention, there is a resounding cry for casual wear, and a decree from one commenter in particular on why they “hate” fashion. Trend or no trend, it’s about finding what’s right for you. Or, making your formal wear as loose and lounge-appropriate as possible, which is exactly what Dries Von Noten seemed to be thinking while designing his latest collection for SS10 (see above).