13 JUL - 2023
Shoes, bags, jackets… Here's what’s up with our favourite brands adding padding to their pieces.
If you are a frequent shopper, you may have noticed your favourite brands “puffifying” or “padding” their most popular items. Well, there is method to the madness. Inflatable fashion has been an immensely popular business move for not just high class labels, but for any brand in the fashion industry right now. As most fashion trends do, this one directly links to what’s happening in the world around us - inflation.
As we’ve seen in prior years, people often start to wear insulated clothing as a result of their anxiety about the constantly changing and completely uncertain state of the world. Climate change is a huge example of this. For some, it’s almost as if they’re preparing for doomsday with these chic cropped puffer jackets, insulated to the nines, and prepared for whatever comes their way. Here are some of the brands we’ve noticed partaking in this latest trend; Prada, Bottega, Coach, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, Moschino, Loewe, Mason Margiela.
Jeremy Scott (the brains behind Moschino), designed an inflatable pool toy inspired collection for spring/summer 2023. In an interview about the quirky collection he said, “We often feel like we’re drowning.” Which is another (very literal) reference to the inflatable fashion trend that has been running rampant recently. You can find the collection here:
Is this puffy trend going to be here for the long run or will we slowly start to witness as it deflates? Although this extra layer of padding may be physically comfortable, it won’t shield us from the inevitable recession that seems to be making it harder for kiwis to financially thrive.
Soft Padded Nappa Leather Loafers
Although Prada might be an investment, loafers are a forever shoe. Classic black loafers coming back into fashion might just be the best thing we’ve ever brought back, now with added puff.
Puffy Mini Bag By Velvet Heartbeat
This pretty puff number is made of apple-leather (yes, that means apple skin!) so it is cruelty-free, vegan, and cute as HECK, along with being made right here in Tāmaki Makaurau.
Lorna Jane Weightless Puffer Jacket
Pink AND puffy?! Could there be a more perfect combo? Embrace the inflatable fashion trend this winter with a big cozy puffer jacket to keep you warm.
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