A new workplace trend is taking root among Gen Z employees in China, where comfort is prioritized over traditional formal attire. According to the New York Post, an increasing number of young workers are opting to wear pyjamas and other comfortable clothing to the office, sparking a social media frenzy around the “gross outfits at work” trend.
The trend has gained such popularity that a dedicated social media thread showcases photos of young Chinese workers sporting sweatpants, sleepwear, and other relaxed attire, giving off the impression of having just rolled out of bed. This shift towards more casual clothing has caught the attention of observers both in China and internationally.
The movement began when an employee named Kendou S posted a video on Douyin, flaunting a combination of pyjama pants, a burlap-like sweater, a quilted jacket, and fluffy slippers. In her video, Kendou S mentioned that her boss had criticized her outfits as “gross” and urged her to align more with the company’s image.
Luo, a 30-year-old interior designer in Wuhan, Hubei Province, expressed a similar sentiment, stating that she prefers to wear what makes her comfortable to work, especially since her job involves mostly sitting down. This trend reflects a broader societal shift known as the “lying flat” movement, where young professionals opt for a simpler and more relaxed lifestyle amidst concerns about economic challenges and job prospects.
Despite the casual attire, these Gen Z workers are keen to emphasize that their choice of clothing does not reflect their dedication or capabilities as employees. This trend is not unique to China, as American Gen Z employees have also embraced a more relaxed approach to dressing at work, as reported in a recent study.
The rise of pyjama-wearing to work also coincides with global changes in workplace culture, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when remote work became more common and comfortable clothing choices became more acceptable in professional settings.
Sources By Agencies
