Fashion has always been reflective of pretty much everything that is happening around us – a perfect sign of the times. The trends and styles that define each era are usually those that are able to answer to the needs of a particular period in history and effectively capture a zeitgeist. These days, that zeitgeist would be adjusting to the new normal of the pandemic. After months of being on lockdown, some US states are finally easing their lockdown measures in order to bolster the economy. Aside from signaling the reopening of many businesses and establishments, this new step translates to an increasing number of Americans going back to their respective offices. During these trying times, many of us can (fortunately) turn to fashion, which can help us stay safe and adjust to the new normal in style.
Stylish face mask
Across the globe, wearing a mask when going out in public is now common sense. As highlighted in a recent experiment published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the utterance of a simple phrase can generate hundreds of droplets ranging from 20 to 500 micrometers. With a mask, nearly all of these were blocked thereby reducing the likelihood of ill individuals infecting others. Given the important role masks play in slowing down the spread of the virus, it is highly likely that we will all be advised to wear masks to the grocery store and while on walks and runs, even in a post-pandemic world. Fortunately, masks can be just as fashionable as they are functional. As New York Magazine’s guide to fabric mask notes, some cloth masks that boast cute designs are also made with different layers that ensure proper filtration, breathability and comfort.
Comfortable clothing
Following the massive shift to remote working and the need to stay indoors as much as possible, people are no longer finding any reason to stick to incredibly fashionable but extremely uncomfortable articles of clothing. In fact, a lot of fashion experts believe that this newfound demand for fashionable, but mostly comfortable, pajamas and loungewear will likely persist even in a post-pandemic world. For instance, an article by the New York Post detailed how sales of non-wired bras and bralettes rose by 40% last March, while the sales of “zero feel” ones were up by 70%. Although wireless bras and bralettes tend to offer a lot less support than their wired counterparts, PrettyMe’s guide to the best nightwear points out how these garments make up for this by offering a great deal more comfort. In addition to this, they are usually made with lightweight and airy materials that come in fun and playful styles. No wonder they have become the preferred choice of lingerie for many women during the new normal.
Minimal accessories
Aside from being one of the most ‘Common Fashion Mistakes We Make Everyday’, over-accessorizing can also make you more at risk during these unprecedented times. After all, accessories can be potential carriers of all sorts of viruses and germs, especially those that we frequently touch like our watches, wallets, spectacles and jewelry. To elevate your look without placing your safety at risk, try to limit the number of accessories you wear. Stick to minimal ones that are made out of materials that can be easily sanitized or cleaned. It would also be a good idea to avoid touching your accessories more than necessary.
Easy to clean shoes
Similar to different kinds of accessories, germs and viruses can also cling to shoes. According to a study published cited by the magazine Good Housekeeping, the virus can remain on plastic surfaces and stainless steel for up to three days and on other surfaces like cardboard for up to 24 hours. This means we need to constantly clean our clothes and footwear. That being said, many people will likely prefer easy to clean shoes over those that can be easily damaged by frequent washing. When it comes to disinfecting your shoes, it would be best to consider the material. For instance, fabric shoes can be sanitized with bleach or vinegar in a machine wash while leather ones can be cleaned with some soap, water and rubbing alcohol.
Today we live in challenging times, but that doesn’t mean we can’t gear up and prepare for the new normal. We hope these tips will give you some guidance going forward.
