China’s Generation CoZy, made up of Gen Zers, is changing office attire standards by wearing pajamas to work, prioritizing comfort over traditional sharp couture. The trend has become so popular that there is a social media thread dedicated to showcasing the “gross outfits at work” worn by young Chinese workers. These outfits include sweatpants, sleepwear, and other comfortable clothing that make them appear as though they just rolled out of bed. This trend has even led to a user posting a video on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, showing her boss criticizing her for not reflecting the company’s image with her attire.
Traditionally, business attire in China has been conservative, with men wearing collared shirts and women expected to wear business suits. The shift towards wearing pajamas to work among Gen Z employees is seen as a representation of the nationwide “lying flat” movement. This movement consists of younger professionals opting for a more relaxed and uncomplicated lifestyle, in response to the country’s perceived slowing growth and decreasing job opportunities. Despite their casual attire, these young workers are eager to prove that their clothing choices do not reflect their work ethic and abilities.
The popularity of wearing pajamas to work in China is not completely new, as the trend gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic when many people were working remotely. However, Chinese officials in Suzhou faced criticism in 2020 after publicly shaming individuals for wearing their sleepwear in public. This fashion choice is not limited to China, as American Gen Z employees have also been pushing boundaries with their office attire, including wearing club-like outfits to work in 2022.
The preference for comfortable clothing over traditional office attire signifies a significant shift in workplace culture, with young employees prioritizing their own well-being and comfort. This trend goes against the norms of previous generations and reflects a larger societal movement towards a more laid-back lifestyle. By choosing to wear pajamas to work, these young workers are making a statement about their values and priorities, rejecting the notion that one’s clothing dictates their professionalism and capabilities.
While the trend of wearing pajamas to work may seem unorthodox, it highlights the changing attitudes towards work and lifestyle among younger generations in China. By embracing casual attire in the workplace, these Gen Zers are challenging traditional expectations and redefining what it means to be a professional. This shift towards comfort and self-expression in the workplace is a reflection of broader societal changes and a growing desire for authenticity and individuality in the modern workforce. Ultimately, the pajama trend among China’s Generation CoZy is a symbol of a new era in workplace culture, where comfort and personal style are valued just as much as productivity and professionalism.
