There may have been a time when uniforms, such as scrubs, diverged strongly from current fashion sensibilities. However, the divide is quickly narrowing, particularly when it comes to medical apparel. “Uniform styles are becoming more and more reflective of high-quality ladies wear,” says Michael Gann, executive vice president for White Swan Brands. Each year fashion looks are continually updated and elevated in style. “Fit is king, and comfort is second on the list,” says Gann. White Swan Brands’ Fusion line speaks to both the fit and style trends in 2010. “Fusion garments are crafted of tri-blend fabric that brings comfort to a new level with stretch capability, fashion and fit,” he says.
Looking forward to 2011, Gann predicts that scrub colors will take on softer, dustier shades. “Prints will also continue to move towards a retro, simple and modern look,” he says. In addition, not only will the color, style and print be important to wearers, according to Gann, but the name brand will also carry weight. “We’re starting to see known apparel brands breaking into the market,” he says. White Swan’s Jockey Scrubs line is just one of many brands to have done so, including Dickies, Izod and others. “It’s the evolution of the branding strategy,” says Gann.
The most important trend in health-care uniforms for the coming year seems to be value. Even though health care as an industry continues to thrive and add jobs, medical apparel buyers are being judicious in their choices. “With salary cuts and frozen wages,” Gann remarks, “a natural renewed focus is on quality and getting the best value for your money.”
He adds that high color fastness and durability are part of creating the highest quality scrubs in its Jockey line. “Our garments,” he says, “bring an entirely new degree of comfort and durability to the market and come straight from the dryer, virtually wrinkle-free and ready to go.”