Renowned fashion designer Giles Deacon has unveiled the Giles x IWG capsule collection, which reimagines office attire for a post-pandemic world. Teaming up with IWG, a major office and flexible workspace operator, Deacon has created three prototype looks for male, female, and non-binary individuals that combine the sharpness of office attire with the comfort of lockdown fashion.
The collection is a response to the speculation surrounding the future of office dressing as remote work comes to an end and employees gradually return to the office. To inform the designs, Deacon conducted a nationwide survey of office workers, which revealed a strong desire among employees to express their individuality through their clothing. More than half of the respondents stated that they work better when given the freedom to dress as they like, and 40% believed that dressing creatively enhances their productivity. With office visits increasing by 58% since the beginning of the year, it is evident that office attire is a pressing concern for many.
Recognizing this shift in preferences, IWG identified a demand for smarter workwear that allows employees to feel stylish and confident without sacrificing comfort. The Giles x IWG collection addresses this need by utilizing organic fabrics like poplin, soft needlecord, compact wool, and cotton jersey. These materials represent a departure from the more traditional fabrics commonly worn prior to the pandemic, encouraging workers to make more sustainable and long-lasting choices for their work wardrobes.
In addition to the use of organic fabrics, the collection introduces an evolved color palette that moves away from the traditional black and white. Charcoal greys, soft-washed navy, and brown communicate strength and dependability, while khaki and sand tones promote a sense of calmness. Brighter colors like light blue aim to instill feelings of happiness, confidence, and authority, while red conveys leadership and determination.
The appeal of the Giles x IWG collection extends to millennials and Gen Z workers, who place a strong emphasis on self-expression through their outfits. The collection aligns well with their values, as a significant percentage of younger age groups believe that their attire reflects their personality and creativity.
Giles Deacon’s collaboration with IWG serves as a testament to the evolving nature of office-wear in a post-pandemic era. As workers transition back to physical workspaces, the collection provides options that balance professionalism with comfort and self-expression. By incorporating sustainable fabrics and contemporary color palettes, the Giles x IWG collection caters to the desires of modern workers who prioritize style, individuality, and environmental consciousness.
Useful links:
1. IWG Website
2. Giles Deacon Website
