manager for Colorado-based supplier Scrub Authority (PPAI 387935, Silver). “Now more items are fashion-friendly, giving nurses and doctors the choice to have a scrub top with a hidden zipper or pocket and fit a little more snug instead of fitting like a burlap sack.” Hospitals often use different scrub colors for different departments to help staff and patients easily distinguish among a variety of roles. “Various shades of blue will always be most requested, as blue has long been associated with calmness, trust and caring,” says Johnson, “but we have seen colors such as dark gray and black become more sought after, especially in smaller clinic environments. We also see a demand for scrubs that align with a school’s colors for healthcare programs, both on the collegiate level and secondary.” But think beyond hospitals, advises Molnar, because scrubs can make great uniforms for a variety of businesses, from dental and eye-care offices to spas, daycares, dispensaries and more. Scrubs that provide more flexibility and comfort are what wearers want, says Johnson, and today you’ll find more options that offer both. During the darkest days of COVID, she adds, fabrics with an antimicrobial feature became popular. “The benefit touted is that it created an added layer of protection,” she says, “but more matter-of-fact is that it helps to extend the life of the fabric.” Bottom line: Scrubs are far more comfortable and customizable today than they were even a decade ago, making them a great uniform option for more environments. “Fabrics have come so far from the old school cotton/poly and 100% cotton scrubs you used to see,” says Molnar. “Now they have polyester, cotton, rayon, spandex, Lycra, bamboo, CiCLO, etc. There are recycled fabrics, fluid-resistant, antimicrobial for dental and hospital and fabrics that shed hair – think spas and vets.” Here are a few options for scrubs that are both functional and fashionable. These UltraStretch Jogger Scrub Pants offer ease of movement with four-way stretch and roomy legs, as well as two front waist pockets, a back patch pocket and a right cargo leg pocket. Available in 10 colors and women’s sizes XXS-5X and men’s XS-5X. Spectrum Uniforms PPAI 232515, Standard-Base spectrumuniforms.com WYND Scrubs combine the feel of workout gear with an antimicrobial finish and wrinkle resistance. All garments feature multiple pockets, and the line includes tuckable scrub tops that can be worn loose or tucked. Available in six colors, women’s XXS-4X and men’s XXS-4X (some styles to XL only). Spectrum Uniforms / PPAI 232515, Standard-Base / spectrumuniforms.com PPAI • JULY 2024 • 15 In Style | Essentials
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