### Chinese Trend: Gross Outfits for Work
A new trend has emerged in China where young workers are defying traditional office attire by opting for informal, casual, and even sleepwear as work outfits. The trend, known as “gross outfits for work,” gained traction after a viral video on Douyin showcased a young woman wearing slippers, PJ bottoms, a sweater dress, and woollen gloves to the office.
### Social Media Buzz
The video quickly went viral, garnering 736,000 likes and 1.4 million shares. The hashtag “gross outfits for work” spread across various Chinese social media platforms, with thousands of young workers embracing a more relaxed approach to dressing for work, including sweatpants, hoodies, and sleepwear.
### Societal Implications
This shift in work attire may be linked to larger socio-economic factors in China, such as the “lying flat” movement, where individuals reject high-pressure jobs in favor of a simpler lifestyle. As growth slows and opportunities become scarcer, young people are opting for a more laid-back approach to work, even in their attire.
### Pandemic Influence
The COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in reshaping office fashion trends globally. With remote and hybrid working becoming more common, individuals are choosing comfort and individuality in their work attire. This shift has blurred the line between home and work, making pyjamas and other casual wear more acceptable in a professional setting.
### Changing Norms
While some may question the appropriateness of wearing pyjamas to work, surveys have shown that a significant number of employees have embraced this trend, especially when working from home. As boundaries between work and personal life continue to blur, the idea of wearing sleepwear to the office may not be as far-fetched as it once seemed.
Original Story at www.theguardian.com – 2024-03-25 16:28:00
