In March, social media platforms buzzed with heated discussions as a community of women voiced their discontent over a provocative clothing trend gaining momentum. The spark igniting the controversy was an Instagram post from US retailer Free People boldly declaring, “We are wearing micro shorts this season.”
These micro shorts, characterized by their incredibly short length resembling high-waisted boyleg underwear, sparked a wave of criticism and resistance. Dubbed as “janties” by some, they prompted one commenter to remark, “As a general rule, my inseam should be longer than my tampon string.”
The trend, reminiscent of Australian beach style, gained traction after actress Emma Corrin donned a tiny pair of Miu Miu shorts over tights at the Venice Film Festival last September. Since then, celebrities like Sydney Sweeney, Olivia Wilde, and Kristen Stewart have embraced the trend, flaunting these daring shorts on various occasions.
The styling of micro shorts varies widely, with combinations ranging from oversized shirts and blazers to singlets and cardigans, paired with tall leather boots or chunky brogues. While some embrace the shock value of underwear as outerwear, others resist the trend, questioning the impracticality and unflattering nature of the garments, particularly when dictated by celebrity influence.
Local Fashion Industry at a Crossroads Jaana Quaintance-James, the newly appointed chief executive of the Australian Fashion Council (AFC), likened the state of the local fashion industry to the ill-fated Titanic. Expressing a desire to steer the industry towards sustainability and preserve local garment manufacturing, Quaintance-James emphasized the need for a clear strategy.
In collaboration with Epson Australia, the AFC is set to release a report later this month on the future of Victoria’s garment and footwear production sector, valued at $960 million. The report aims to offer recommendations for government policies and industry initiatives to support and enhance Victorian manufacturing.
Quaintance-James underscored the sector’s potential and called for greater recognition of its significance as a powerhouse in the fashion landscape, signaling a pivotal moment for the local industry’s evolution.
