Work attire continues to evolve over the past few decades and casual Fridays have turned into casual every day. Yet, retailers are cautioned by experts that this is not so much about dressing down as dressing comfortably.

Roseanne Morrison, Fashion Director, The Doneger Group says that there has been a big shift. Women wear rompers, short sets, dresses, and skater skirts, which are paired with sneakers. For Fall, they will pick darker, dressy denims. People will pick a flared leg that looks a bit sexier and dressier, so one can be dressy yet comfortable.

Thus, stores have to work harder to provide more khakis for men and dresses for women. Knowing the core customer helps, also the types of type of industries they work in and then provide assortments that reflect those preferences—however, comfort remains at the top.

Tom Julian, men’s Fashion Director, The Doneger Group, says that what used to be casual business has now evolved into ‘creative workplace’. He adds that from speaking to marketing firms and creative tech companies, the biggest change in workplace attire is self-individuality and comfort. Today, millennials do not want to change outfits from work to play to time out. Tailored separates have been accepted by young men and these can be seen in major stores and global chains, Julian states.

According to the ‘Monitor’ survey, while women, for long have been piecing together their wardrobes, the post-recession business environment inspired men to shun their khakis and golf shirts for tailored separates. Today, 66 per cent of both, men and women buy separate pieces from different stores, rather than buy an entire outfit from one place.