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Friday Chatter: How important is comfort to you?
If you haven’t yet read Cathy Horyn’s op-ed in the New York Times about the changing role of comfort in fashion, it is highly recommended.
In it, she talks about the increasing shift towards comfort in the way women dress, and the reactions from the world of fashion. Do we prize comfort now more than ever?
As I get older, comfort has become more and more important to me.
One mistake that people seem to often make is associating comfort in clothing with “giving up.” The dichotomy between being comfortable and looking good is a false one, especially in today’s world of knit fabrics and other advances. If comfort is important to you (and I don’t think it is for everyone, or needs to be), you can still look beautiful.
It seems to be a balancing act, and each person sets the point at which she feels best. It’s interesting that, as a culture, we seem to be shifting more in that direction. Take a look at the offerings at high end boutiques like Totokaelo, Frances May, and La Garconne, for example.
How important is comfort in your clothing? And what defines comfort for you?
[image above: Isabel Marant FW2013]
Comments
katie
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is priority #1 for me (or at least on a par with style), something I took a little while to realise when I started sewing. For me that mostly means working with knits, or where I work with a woven the fit must be perfect and the fabric can’t be stifling in any way. To keep comfortable clothing looking chic I think fabric choice, fit, and sewing technique are even more important then usual. Still working on that bit! I’d love to see more choice in knit patterns, too.
Bunny
February 14, 2014 #
This trend toward comfort is all part of the dumbing down of fashion. It is lower labor costs all across the process and therefore enhanced profit. I really hate that the world of fashion would use me that way. Give me a finely flat felled topstitched seam on a gorgeous jean any day.
Sarai
February 14, 2014 #
This is a really interesting counter perspective, and I’m glad you brought it up.
I think there’s truth in what you’re saying, but that the economics of production is just one of the factors. I don’t know that a beautiful pair of comfortable and simple trousers from Jil Sander are really more economical to produce than something less comfortable would be.
But on the other hand, when I walk into an expensive boutique and see box-cut t-shirt dresses in thin knits selling for $400+, it does make you feel insulted.
I think this warrants its own post, because it really gets at the heart of what fashion is and what it’s used for.
Femke
February 18, 2014 #
I guess I’m getting a bit of topic with this but it’s so disappointing that buying a more expensive garment does not equal buying better quality. If I want to stay away from the big chains like H&M because of ethic and quality reasons, I feel like there is no alternative. A lot of clothes I make myself for this reason but sweaters and jeans are items I still buy from a shop. I bought some items that were more expensive and had hopes of wearing them a long time. No such good fortune, they were ruined even faster than my cheaper, older ones!
sewlittletime
February 14, 2014 #
i guess comfort has 2 sides for me – physical comfort, and feeling comfortable with what i wear. in terms of physical comfort, i loathe and rarely wear heels. i am just going to accept that flat shoes are the way to go. well fitting clothes that i don’t spend the day pulling down (i’m tall so RTW skirts and tops are too short and waistlines too high) are why i sew. i recently reviewed the clothes i feel best in, and they tend to be me mades – i think this has a lot to do with a comfortable fit.
in terms of feeling comfortable with what i wear, the wardrobe architect is really helping me work out what shapes and styles to wear.
comfort doesn’t have to be cheap or badly made. i think the beautifully cut Jil Sander/ Helmut Lang trousers in the original article demonstrate that. men’s clothes manage it – i don’t know why women’s don’t seem to. too much fast fashion perhaps?
Virginia
February 15, 2014 #
I hear what you’re saying about sizing. Sometimes it feels like ready-to-wear clothing has set out to make us feel uncomfortable with our bodies.
Viper
February 14, 2014 #
I value confidence and “mental” comfort over physical comfort unless I’m ill. I won’t put myself in pain or danger, but the confidence and feelings of empowerment that I get when I feel like I look awesome trump the traditionally physical sense of “comfort,” and I frequently sacrifice aspects of physical comfort to achieve a mindset of “man, I look awesome!” which I place much more value upon.
Tatiana
February 14, 2014 #
I have a very strong opinion about this… I really believe that if a woman is not feeling comfortable wearing something, she doesn’t look good in it, simply as that! I’ve seen women many times pulling down their too short skirts, or adjusting parts of a bodice dress, you can see clearly that they are not feeling comfortable, and because of that, they never look good on their own clothes. So when I am sewing, comfort is my number one priority, and of course the clothes have to look good as well…
francesca
February 16, 2014 #
This is how I feel too. I remember reading something to this point by somebody quite famous in the clothes design world – basically, you should be able to forget about your clothes once you put them on… plus, if others notice your clothes and / or makeup, they aren’t noticing you.
Annette Tirette
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is incredibly important for me. My skin is very sensitive to certain things, and I was delighted when my sewing got good enough to produce wearable dresses: I could wear dresses lined in something else than polyester! I could have cotton against my skin at all times!
Fit and general feel matters as well. I spend a large part of my day either drawing at a desk or moving around (printing, cutting things out,…). I’m often working with dusty or dirty materials so my daily wear has to be comfortable, with room for mobility and easy care. I can proudly say that most of the things I make these days fit these criteria without looking like I gave up!
Julia
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is important for me. I don’t thing comfortable clothes are considered equivalent to unfashionable clothes. It’s all about how comfortable you feel in something and you could be super stylish in some loose clothes and on the other side you can feel the comfortableness in dresses and heels, if you feel like it and what you are doing out of it. I think this is one of the magic things of a perfect sewed item of clothing, it’s mostly comfortable because you make it like this. Perfect for you. I hope you can understand what I mean because english isn’t my native language :)
Alana B
February 14, 2014 #
Interestingly it seems comfort was the inspiration behind the futristic costuming in the movie Her written about over at Clothes on Film.
For me personally, I definately err on the side of comfort. No matter how good something looks I know for myself I won’t be happy if it encroaches beyond a certain level of comfort. I posted about it a while back here during one of the old palette challenges and I still refer back to this image – I think everyone just needs to figure out for themselves where they fall.
Raphaelle
February 14, 2014 #
I really enjoyed seeing where other commenters are taking the idea of comfort. It isn’t just about feeling physically comfortable but mentally comfortable as well. As much as pajamas are physically comfortable, I would never feel mentally comfortable wearing them all day, even when staying home and feeling sick!
The various definitions of comfortable reign supreme in my dressing decisions.
Physical comfort means that I never choose constricting clothes. I must have full range of movement. But I never wear sweats! I can have full range movement in jeans (spandex!), dresses, skirts… Everything depends on pattern, ease, and fabric. More ease for non stretchy fabrics, less ease for stretchy knits and wovens. Physical comfort also means I tend to stick to flats (usually Converse, boots or ballet flats) and lower heels or wedges.
I’ve found fabric choice to be incredibly important in terms of physical comfort as well. In Winter, a cotton sweater is just never going to be as warm as a wool or cashmere one. In Summer, fabric that breathes will make the biggest of differences. I love a lightweight linen or cotton in the heat!
Mental comfort means that I have to wear clothing that makes me feel good about myself. I need to feel put together. If I feel sloppy, I just want to hide in a corner and that isn’t feeling comfortable! A somewhat fitted blazer might be a bit more constricting than a sweatshirt but it makes me feel good about myself. Throwing a blazer on over jeans and a T-shirt will make me hold my head up just a little bit higher and stand up just a little bit straighter. That’s a form of comfort too.
Emma Jayne
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is the main reason I prefer dresses to trousers/skirts. I just feel restricted with stuff around my waist or hips, even if it’s loose or stretchy. And I absolutely agree… being comfortable can be achieved while still looking well turned out.
Nina
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is absolutely key for me: I don’t want my clothing to stop me doing anything. I think this comes to the fore most especially with shoes; I suspect that in a truly equal society, women wouldn’t wear heels – I know some will say heels make them feel “powerful” etc but basically they reduce your physical functioning. Seems to me they’re a way of rendering women more helpless (i.e. in need of male help). I’ve occasionally tried wearing heels but now am happy to stick with flats. If my feet aren’t comfortable I’m miserable – I think there are a lot of people out there who go through the day with painful feet and are probably less pleasant than they might be as a result!!
Melissa S.
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is definitely a priority. I don’t want to look lazy or like I don’t care, but if I don’t feel comfortable, I don’t feel confident. There’s always a part of my mind complaining about how my feet hurt, or how I can’t breathe because the waist is too tight, or irritating stiff or scratchy fabrics, and so on. That only makes me self-conscious, which is the opposite of self-confident. I have no patience for that anymore (though I admit I did have more patience as a teenager). I don’t see why I should have to feel bad to look good. Can’t I have both?
Laura
February 14, 2014 #
This is so timely, especially seeing the Marc Jacobs show that just happened recently. I do really like this trend of comfort, it feels really feminine and feminist to me. Finally we are embracing clothes that makes us feel good and allow us to move comfortably – to reach for the stars or to reach within, if that makes sense.
Coincidentally, I just purchased my first “designer” item last week – a super cozy. gray alpaca sweater from Helmut Lang (deeeeeeply discounted!). It’s definitely not showy, but I feel like I’m wrapped up in a cloud. :) Thanks for the link to Ms.Horyn’s piece as well, I always enjoy reading what she has to say about the state of the union in fashion.
cathy
February 14, 2014 #
It may not be what I think about when I shop or sew, but it is the top thing on my mind when it comes to getting dressed. Forget about how cute that top is if it it just slightly too tight and I know I won’t enjoy lunch. Forget about how awesome that skirt is on me if I am constantly pulling it down and adjusting it. Forget about even matching when it is unexpectedly snowing and I only have tan shoes, red socks, blue tights, tan pants, a green sweater, a blue coat, and an orange scarf to wear – it all goes on to keep me from freezing!
Then again, maybe it’s more a problem of preparation for me and being ready for life/weather situations that might come up.
Sunni
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is so important to me! (You are so right when you say its not for everyone and shouldn’t be, something I need to remember more). When looking at what to wear in the morning though, I notice that a lot of my go to wardrobe staples are picked because they are comfortable. To be candid, I’m so glad we live in a day and age where we, as women, can dress more comfortably too and still look elegant and chic.
Jet Set Sewing
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is important, but it doesn’t have to equal sloppy. When I’m in France, I see chic women in jeans, sweaters, and low heels, but their clothes fit, the items have been chosen to have some style, and there’s thought behind the accessories. They don’t look overly dressed up or made up. Having sewn several Chanel-style jackets, I’ve discovered that they are beyond comfy…light, warm, soft, and easy to move in due to the lack of shoulder pads and the narrow armscye. I love wearing them out to dinner with waxed jeans; chic and comfy!
Colleen
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is the most important thing to me but I don’t need to be in stretchy pants and tees all the time. It’s really more about how I feel about what I’m wearing. When I’m not comfortable in my wardrobe choice, I find myself tugging and futzing around all day. Even if I’m wearing something slightly constricting and I feel good about it, I feel comfortable.
Samantha
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is of great importance to me. I realized recently that my many of my favorite skirts sit just a bit below my natural waist and are actually quite roomy, and that’s because that is comfortable for me. I need to learn how to make them fit a hair better, but this small realization was a big deal for me. Comfort equals skill in sewing. The better I sew, the better my clothes fit me, the better I feel about myself. Personally I feel I look best when I am comfortable. I know this may be different for others, but the major reason my wardrobe is almost entirely me-made at this point is because I couldn’t find stylish, age appropriate, but most importantly, comfortable clothes in RTW. So I needed to make them. When my clothes are comfortable (and stylish- NOT sloppy) I am happy and feel good about myself and so present myself better. For me comfort level is crucial to my style.
Thami
February 14, 2014 #
I have been working from home for over five years now, which basically means that I’ve gotten used to wearing pajamas about 90% of the time. Whenever I leave the house in “regular” clothes, I feel so confined and uncomfortable! To combat this, I’ve recently purchased a bunch of basic wrap dresses in soft, stretchy jersey fabric. These types of dresses are super flattering, classic, and yet just as comfortable as wearing pajamas (minus the having to wear a bra part, LOL).
I have added more jersey fabrics to my stash than anything else lately as well. I’ve only made a couple of self-drafted skirts with it so far, but I would love to make a few more dresses, too. Now if winter would just hurry up out of here so I can wear them sans leggings, that would be great… ;o)
Leslie
February 14, 2014 #
I stay home with three young kids, and I have finally resorted to sewing pajama bottoms in nice fabric! I don’t feel bad about it, but neither do I feel sloppy.
Stephanie
February 14, 2014 #
I think this is a self-selecting issue: we all sew, and we probably all sew to get what we want out of our clothes:fit, nice textiles that feel good, styles that make us feel great. Comfort both mentally and physically.
I went to work this morning in my new Frida print jeans and a shirt, and my boss was still in his Homer Simpson pajamas. One of his neighbors stopped by, and commented about how we were both in pajamas, and my boss responded “No, she’s wearing real pants. Real because she made them.” And then he gave her a ten minute lecture about sewing and fit and getting what you want. I love my boss.
Ann
February 14, 2014 #
When I read about celebrities wearing corsets so tight they cannot breathe, or other uncomfortable garments, to red carpet events, I feel sorry for them, that they feel they must sacrifice comfort for a smaller waist or higher heels. They are beautiful, just as they are, but somehow feel inadequate. I read a book once about the indignities women suffer for fashion. It was aptly called “The Tyranny of Beauty”. I think a comfortably dressed woman exudes confidence, rather than insecurity or vanity, as an uncomfortably dressed woman does.
Tracy
February 14, 2014 #
I have also been noticing the shift towards comfort in the Fashion Week images I’ve been seeing. The images from Michael Kors Fall/Winter 2014 shown on The Sartorialist are an example. And what about Karl Lagerfeld having his models wear sneakers? As someone who never learned how to walk in heels (high or any other kind) and highly values comfort, I’m happy to see these looks for two reasons. (1) Because now it will be much easier to find the type of clothes I like to wear. (2) Because they support simplicity, something I think people are beginning to realize can lead to harmony which in turn leads to lots of other good things.
Lady ID
February 14, 2014 #
I like to be comfortable. BUT for me, comfort means wearing something that fits well – dresses, skirts, fitted jeans, sweaters, tops. I don’t go out in yoga trousers, etc. Those are comfortable for lounging and I do like them but I would be decidedly uncomfortable wearing them on a regular basis.
Comfort is also being appropriately dressed for an occasion.
Comfort means not struggling with my clothes because they are too tight, too loose, etc. I want to put them on, look nice and forget about them :)
Kristen F
February 14, 2014 #
My closest almost completely revolves around comfort! There are a few pieces that need a bit of work to wear right but nothing “extreme”. lol My shirts are long enough to tuck in without them popping up when I bend, my shoes are flat or have a chunky heel (never learned to walk in small heels), and I avoid polyester like the plague. Makes me sweat and very uncomfortable. I honestly don’t do fashion or trends. I’m usually casual or kind of masculine but I just work it into my quirky artist background.
Jennie
February 14, 2014 #
For me, comfort is very closely related to fabric choice and fit. I loathe most synthetics because they don’t breathe and have found some pretty painful labels and threads sewn into RTW garments-simply because the manufacturer decided to save some money by using cheap materials. I’ve also just recently realized that most of the clothes that I find uncomfortable to wear just don’t fit well: pants with rises so short that sitting in them actually hurts, waistbands that dig into my skin, underarm seams cut too high, etc.
I think that even tailored clothes can be comfortable if they fit they body they were made of and are made of fabrics that feel good against the skin. I’m still in the process of learning how to make clothes that fit me well, but my goal is create my own classic, stylish, yet comfortable wardrobe.
Sara
February 14, 2014 #
For me, comfort means “perfectly fitted” as opposed to “feels like pajamas” – flapping facings, droopy necklines and misplaced darts really bother me. I prefer that my garments be more structured and crisp (no knit dresses for this girl :P), because I enjoy those style lines better. I honestly feel that I don’t own anything (nor would I sew anything) that is physically uncomfortable to wear…
Rebecca
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is a top priority for me. Now that I’m sewing my own clothing I always try to make sure what I’m about to sew fits well and is easy to wear. If it doesn’t I end up changing quickly when I get home. Comfort doesn’t need to look sloppy either, my favorite comfortable pants are a linen trouser, but the fit is perfect on me. Also as a SAHM if the clothes I’m wearing don’t function for my daily activities they just sit in my closet unworn.
Peggy
February 14, 2014 #
The NY Times article expressed my feelings 100%. Having gone through many clothing phases in my life, I now crave simplicity and comfort . . . but with style. I don’t want anything superfluous in my life. I know what I like and that is that. It’s a wonderful place to be. If I’m not comfortable (and that means great fabric, fit, and style) it shows.
Sarai
February 14, 2014 #
Yes, I really like that she pointed out that comfort can also mean sticking with what works for you.
Jenelle
February 14, 2014 #
I think that the shift in women’s clothing becoming more comfort-focused perhaps reflects the progression of the feminist movement (I’d like to think so). I think that it’s every human beings right to feel comfortable and confident in what they wear without having society dictate that a corset is absolutely needed or that heels are the only appropriate shoe for dressing up. Of course if someone chooses to wear those items we can celebrate that the individual has the choice to express themselves however they feel.
Jen
February 14, 2014 #
Same here, comfort has become more important to me as I’ve gotten older. I admit I’m guilty of sometimes wearing yoga pants or pajama bottoms all day but I’ve worked from home for the last 7 years, almost exclusively. And maybe growing up in CA, I find casual dress more acceptable. But I LOVE beautiful clothes too! I don’t think they are mutually exclusive. And while some people may choose to dress comfortably (i.e. sweats) because they don’t care anymore, it doesn’t have to be that way. In fact, I prefer more body-conscious comfort clothing (but not “body-con” as in skin tight and revealing!) and I look best if I stay in decent shape, and not let things “hang out.” ;)
I wonder if the reason for the ballet trend, besides movies/tv and ballet-inspired workouts, is that the look can be both comfortable and trendy or chic?
I’m inspired to try using knit fabric for patterns that normally call for wovens. Not sure how to convert them though!
Courtney Ostaff
February 14, 2014 #
I’m very keen on comfort, especially as I’ve gotten older. However, I actually make it a point to wear fewer knits than in the past, as they are less kind to my lumps and bumps. Being dressed appropriately for the occasion, in clothing that doesn’t twist, bind, unwantedly expose, and is flattering for my figure makes me comfortable.
However, it irks me to no end to go into a shop that presumes to sell more expensive clothing ($48 for a t-shirt?!) and find raw edges. I don’t care how comfortable it might be, there is a point at which shoddy workmanship takes a toll.
Paola
February 14, 2014 #
I am another to whom comfort is a top priority. For me, comfortable clothes are clothes that fit, whatever they are. The goal is to get dressed and forget about my clothes for the rest of the day. That’s comfort. If the fit is slightly off, I am conscious of my clothes, which puts me in a slightly stroppy mood.
Comfort doesn’t have to mean yoga pants or knits in general (although most of them are comfortable)) – some of my most comfortable clothes are made from wovens that I’ve spent a lot of time fitting.
Fibre content also adds to the equation, which means that synthetics don’t get much of a look in (although wicking fabrics for activewear certainly have their place).
Style also comes into the equation, by that I mean I’m covering what I want covered, highlighting bits I like.
And lastly, I am dressed appropriately for the occasion – neither underdressed or overdressed.
Once I have all those bases covered, I’m comfortable. Too easy!
Femke
February 18, 2014 #
“The goal is to get dressed and forget about my clothes for the rest of the day. That’s comfort.”
This sums it up for me. I agree with all the rest you’ve written too, but that’s at the center for me. :-)
Andrea
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is the most important thing for me. If something isn’t comfortable, I won’t wear it. I wear pants and a sweater almost every day in the winter (Canada) because I have absolutely no intention of being cold. The pants fit well and the sweaters are dressy and pretty, so it’s not sloppy, but I am warm and can concentrate on the task at hand.
I love clothing that has that little special detail–an interesting neckline, pleats on sleeves, unexpected smocking or embroidery, a lovely colour, etc.–but it absolutely can and must be comfortable to wear as well. A bit of flair is a lot of fun, but not if I can’t breathe in it!
Patricia
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is extremely important to me but it doesn’t mean that I don’t care about style. It is one of the reasons why I sew for myself; custom clothing = comfort.
Isabel
February 14, 2014 #
Comfort is really really important for me. I don’t wear high heels (and only have low heels on my ankle boots) and avoid constricted clothing. But I try to keep my style there as well, and nowadays that is definitively easier!
I completely agree with a previous comment, in which in the fashion business comfort is being used as an excuse for cheaply made clothes, with the consequences we all are too aware of (and I am not talking of a t-shirt falling apart…). In the other hand I also agree with Sarai that overcharging in fashion, especially for simpler garments, is ridiculous.
A great topic, with great discussions!
Jennifer Lachman
February 14, 2014 #
It depends on what I am doing. I spend a lot of time in the woods, and the 3 or four co-workers that are usually with me don’t mind that I put comfort before fashion. That being said I’m not going to show up to work in sweat pants. If I am going to a wedding or somewhere nice I am more willing to deal with a little bit of discomfort to feel and look attractive, just as long as doesn’t affect my ability to function (I can’t walk in a heel over 2 inches) it’s just for the evening after all and then I can go home and change into something cozy.
amy
February 14, 2014 #
I like to be challenged intellectually and emotionally to grow as a person. I don’t like to be challenged by ill-fitting pants, constrictive jackets or posture-punishing shoes … Comfort is extremely important to me.
I’m working through the Wardrobe Architect exercises and two of my words are Practical and Effortless. I think (hope?) I can still achieve something stylish and comfortable at the same time.
Patricia
February 14, 2014 #
I think the disconnect is equating “comfortable” with “sloppy.” People who walk around in their sweat pants might be comfortable, but they don’t present a very good picture to the world (and that is certainly their choice.) But you can be comfortable and look nice. For me this means means clothing that fits well, is well made and also I can go about my day in. Something important to me is being able to walk long distances wearing my normal shoes. So I only wear heels on special occasions, but I have several pairs of fashionable shoes I can walk in. In fact, two of the five words I chose for my personal style while doing the Wardrobe Architect exercises are “comfortable” and “walkable.” My other three are “practical,” “classic,” and “structured.”
Virginia
February 15, 2014 #
For me the holy grail would be clothing that doesn’t look as comfortable as it is. When I was a teen I had a pair of gothic platform boots that everyone thought must be murder on the feel, but because they fit me so well and the heel was barely higher than the toe it was like walking barefoot on carpet. :-)
Sarai
February 17, 2014 #
That’s how I feel about my wood base clog sandals that I wear all summer. They’re heels, but so so comfy, and the platform means there’s no much incline to them.
sojoysews
February 15, 2014 #
One of the reasons I am most interested in the way that French women dress is their tendency to wear a “uniform” that is appropriate for their figure and lifestyle. For the young and petite, a short skirt with tights or bare legs or a pair of slim-cut pants, a very fitted tank or tee topped with layers and, bien sur, a scarf. Older, more matronly figures will wear a dress or skirt that skims and moves with the figure with a perfectly tailored jacket or soft cardigan, and perhaps a signature pin or necklace. Both will be wearing perfectly fitted, matching, and probably sexy underthings beneath the clothes.
As I (ahem) mature and expand, I find there is emotional comfort in appropriateness and simplicity, and the physical comfort comes from perfect, not restrictive fit–and from sensible shoes.
Sarah
February 25, 2014 #
Thank you for reminding me about this! I love the concept of a uniform based on the shapes and styles that work for me. I’m close – actually I just need to sew it! And find some more pairs of comfortable shoes.
Emily
February 15, 2014 #
Ever since I moved to Boston and have had to use public transportation to get to work everyday instead of driving, comfort has become even more important to me than ever before. I used to wear a lot of heels because they’re cute, and I could get away with less outerwear. However, now that I walk a mile to and from work, plus a half hour subway ride, there’s no way I can wear heels! It makes me sad, but I would much rather be comfortable than get to work in the morning and already be in pain.
Robin
February 15, 2014 #
This topic is interesting to me as it relates to office work wear. One of my jobs is in human resources, and my company’s HR manager just sent out yet another message on Friday reminding staff what business attire is (we do consulting on the east coast). Being that I’m past the 50 year mark, I remember the shoulder-padded suits and pumps of the 80s. And while I wouldn’t want to return to that structured a uniform (pantyhose, anyone?), I just can’t get over professionals wearing flip flops to work and thinking that’s acceptable.
I do feel for folks younger than myself, because as another poster said, fast faster has really skewed our perceptions. I would love to give a talk to both men and women on this topic, but I am really afraid it would not go over well.
For myself, comfort lies in fit, design and fabric. Linings, for example, can really make or break the comfort level of a piece. Also, waist bands. I find bandless styles so much more comfortable, but still professional, especially on woven fabrics, and also helpful if I have gained a little weight, which happens a lot more these days. Knits are a real challenge for me to keep looking good enough over time and not look frumpy. Maybe I need to line those as well.
Love heels! They have the power to dress up anything! A structured jacket can work wonders as well.
Houseofpinheiro
February 16, 2014 #
Comfort is the most important but doesn’t mean sloppy. No tracksuits,flip flops… People thick comfortable is free for all to look bad. For me conform is well fitting clothes.
Elaine
February 16, 2014 #
Funny, I was at a Naturalizer shoe store yesterday, having recently decided (learned) that perhaps I should buy wide shoes. Anyway, this is a brand, like Aerosoles, that started out with comfort and then gradually got stylish as well. My sister pointed out that everyone in the store was over 40……having “come to their senses.” I like to feel good about what I am wearing and increasing that includes comfort, especially with shoes.
francesca
February 16, 2014 #
I first have to say (and forgive me if I come in late) I absolutely love your blog. How didn’t I find you on Bloglovin before?
Comfort doesn’t mean wearing sloppy and deformed clothing as if your life would revolve around a slumber party in a dorm. I, personally, think that comfort should be considered as being ‘effortlessly chic’. When you feel comfortable in the garments you wear, you automatically appear confident and elegant to the eye of the others. You can look comfortable in a snug dress, when you feel comfortable in it. Somebody else (like me for example) feel comfortable in loose fitting silouettes without looking goofy. It’s a state of mind, an attitude that goes with your being.
I do look comfortable in flats as well as somebody else may in heels, as long we both feel at easy.
Again thanks for your controbutions!
Sarai
February 17, 2014 #
Thanks so much, Francesca. :)
Tiffany
February 17, 2014 #
comfort to me is very important, though it really depends on how someone defines it. for me it means not just to feel comfortable physically but also mentally. in other words, i will choose trousers and blouses that allow me to move and go about the way i like, but also make me look the way i wish :) it can be physically comfy but if it makes you feel akward to be seen in then it pretty much defeats the purpose.
Christianne
February 17, 2014 #
Comfort is the priority in my clothing….if I’m wearing something uncomfortable, it only lasts 1/2 a day; I’ll change to feel more at ease. I’m home most days so I can do that. But I also dislike wearing sweats all the time, so I’ve added knit dresses and skirts. comfy sweaters and tees to my wardrobe. Living in CA I can wear most things year round by just adding tights and a sweater. Even if I’m not seeing anyone all day, I like to look good for myself..it boosts my self esteem and energizes me.
Chiara
February 17, 2014 #
(Hi, new reader here…).
I highly value comfort, but at the same time I highly value style. I have found that to be comfortable and stylish a garment or (especially) a pair of shoes needs to be very well made – which usually means spending more on it and taking time finding the best options for my budget. It takes more time, it means being more choosy and a little “snob” when going into stores, but it really pays off in terms of comfort and duration.
There are exceptions, such as a black sheath dress I found years ago at the Italian equivalent of Target, which seems cut for my body and I still love, and was 25 €. But those are indeed exceptions.
I find this strategy really limits the amount of stuff I allow myself to buy (unfortunately, since I love shopping but I don’t have a huge disposable income), but at the end has a higher payoff.
Begonia
February 19, 2014 #
Colour and pattern is important to feeling comfortable for me. There are days when I absolutely need to put on a bright colour. There are days when I need to dress in something muted or black. It’s as if my mood dictates what makes me comfortable or good on a particular day.
Moa Fredholm
February 19, 2014 #
Comfortable clothing for me is simply what I feel comfortable in. Duh?! Right, but what I mean is that it doesn’t have to be sweats and an over sized t-shirt.
If a shirt makes me feel nice inside, it’s comfortable. If it represents me and FITS. That’s important. Fit.