ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES

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DRESS-DOWN FRIDAY CRAZE SPAWNS A COUNTER TREND

AUBURN, SEPT. 11---The dress-down Friday craze that started the casualization of the corporate dress code has spawned another small counter trend -- the upgrading of the non-work wardrobe.

According to the Soap and Detergent Association, men who were once content to spend their weekends in faded and fraying garments and tattered sneakers, are now looking for more comfortable clothes with a bit more fashion.

Casual wear is becoming the buzzword for clothes that look professional enough for a relaxed office setting, but maintain the comfort feel of weekend wear, says Dr. Carol Centrallo, Extension apparel and textile management specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

Even Sunday morning church attire in some denominations have gone to a more casual look. Pastors and church staff are wearing sport shirts or sweaters rather than a robe or suit. This trend has spilled over into the congregation as well with men wearing sport shirts and pants and more women wearing pantsuits.

As the more casual look is accepted, casual clothes are destined to change to become more eye-catching and fashionable. Upscale designers have already begun creating more casual lines, while casual wear manufacturers are introducing new, dressier lines.

While men are finding it necessary to purchase new casual clothes, many women's wardrobes already include separates appropriate for the corporate casual look.

The challenge is to coordinate the pieces to create a polished ensemble, says Centrallo. Many retailers are addressing this need by offering coordinated upscale casual clothes. Customers are inspired to purchase new items for their wardrobe while learning how to fashionably use existing garments.

Teenagers, especially boys still into the Grunge Look, continue to wear torn or soiled t-shirts, sweatshirts and jeans. However, the apparel industry is encouraged by the increase in sales of licensed sports and entertainment-based apparel such as that of MTV and Disney by teens.

Attention to neater grooming in clothes is catching on with teens. Technical innovations such as wrinkle-resistant cotton apparel, are contributing to easy maintenance and a neat appearance.