Office Wear Essentials?

Globally, athleisure is a growing segment of the attire market, estimated to be worth a whopping $350 billion by 2020. Now both fashionistas and athleisure marketers predict that those 'cool' and comfortable sneakers could well invade the starchy domain of the workplace too

- Jyotsna Sharma

AT A SOCIAL gathering recently, the conversation veered around – or down to be more literal – to sneakers – yes, those cozy footwear that is so comfortable to gallivant around in − but is so wrong as formal wear. Some at the gathering felt that comfortable as they are, sneakers could boost productivity at the workplace.

The old school differed. Office wear, they felt should be dark, conservative in design and have a ‘business look’ about them. Most agreed that it all boils down to how sneakers are defined. Someone said, “Why not? It will increase productivity. If your employees are comfortable they will be more productive.” Perhaps, but would Indians really kick off those black leather shoes and take to jogging to work in sportswear?

“As more companies promote leisurewear, we will definitely see sneakers become mainstream and everyday wear,” says Abhishek Ganguly, Managing Director, Puma India. “As the lines between sports and style continue to blur, we believe it is important to stay ahead of trends, taking inspiration from athletic wear for everyday style," says Ganguly.

'Sneakers or high heels, it should be their choice'

"Whether its reintroducing iconic sneakers like the Puma Suede, which has a rich sporting heritage and is now a popular street style − to our association with Virat Kohli’s athleisure brand ‘one8’, which was co-created by Puma and clocked Rs 100 crores in the first year of launch − we will continue to focus on, and invest in this segment,” says the Puma India managing director confidently.