Business Casual Evolves to Business Comfort Among Hybrid Workers
The prolonged work-from-home period is shaping apparel choices — and business suits show no sign of returning.
Stitch Fix says "business comfort" will be the dominant style as people return to the office.
Source: Stitch FixWith variants like omicron making it tough for companies to set return-to-office dates, new fashion trends are emerging among hybrid workers, according to the 2022 Stitch Fix Style Forecast. These include a prolonged move toward comfortable attire — and there are no signs of a comeback for the beleaguered business suit.
Based on data gleaned from its orders, the apparel-subscription company says trends include the category of “business comfort,” featuring items such as stretchy blazers, knit and woven tops and elastic-waist bottoms. While demand for work outfits is rising, a majority of consumers are looking to balance style with comfort, according to Stitch Fix. Denim and dresses are making a comeback, while sales for larger sizes are also growing fast.
The report found clients ditching the business suit in droves, with about half of millennials saying they’ll never wear one again.