BY SKYE MCLAUGHLIN
Published Oct , 2020 – Courtesy

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected how we live our lives on a day-to-day basis, including the clothing that we wear. Students from SEASON Magazine and apparel merchandising faculty share their thoughts and observations on how the pandemic has influenced trends and the fashion industry as a whole.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed nearly every aspect of daily life. The fashion industry is no exception to this.

In the age of the coronavirus pandemic, masks have become a fashion statement. DIY projects are all the rage with the extra time spent at home. People are choosing comfort over trends.

SEASON Magazine stylist Jack Boardman said trendy athleisure is becoming a popular fashion choice.

“We’re spending a lot of time at home now, so people want to be comfortable, but they also still want to be stylish,” Boardman said.

Erin Huston, SEASON Magazine editor-in-chief, said people are focusing less on what other people are wearing and more on developing their individual style.

“Trends have become a little bit less important,” Huston said.

Huston said DIY is becoming more popular. People are making their own masks, tie-dying clothing and making matching sets from the comfort of their home.

Boardman said a surprising benefit of events being moved online due to the COVID-19 pandemic is increased accessibility to fashion.

“There’s been a really great democratizing of fashion,” Boardman said. “Before COVID, if you wanted to go to a fashion show, your name has to be on a list, you have to know certain people, you have to be of a certain status.”

Fashion shows that were once in-person, exclusive events are now online for anyone to access.

“You don’t have to be a Kardashian in order to see a fashion show,” Boardman said.