Environmental Scan
Pockets
For the success of any business venture, it is essential to discover the current environmental trends of
the marketplace.
Although most scrubs are solid colors, there are a few scrub designs which are starting to experiment with paneling. The most common areas for paneling are under the arm, and around the neckline. [1] [2] [3]
Looking at current runways, designers are starting to play with panels/patches in unconventional ways. Designers manipulate shape, texture, fabric, and color to create these stylish panels. Although it may be hard to play with different materials to create this kind of look, the shapes and colors used in this trend should be taken into consideration while designing. [6] [7]
A scrub is not a scrub without an abundance of pockets. Looking at current scrub designs, most scrubs have open, square pockets, which function well for a quick "grab and go." The pockets often grouped in sets of two or three for more storage options. Some are beginning to experiment with shapes, trim, and color, to create more stylized pocket openings. [1] [2] [3]
Current runway trends, offer an interesting method of creating unique pockets.
Square, utilitarian, pockets, like those found on scrubs are making their way into the fashion spotlight. These pockets are stylized through use of color, visible stitching, and shape. [4] [5]
Panels
Prints
In addition to the solid color scrubs, there are a few top options that come in prints. Most print options are simple, sometimes cartoony prints, which usually refer to the wearer's occupation, season, or fantasy character. There are a few higher end scrub pieces which have a more sophisticated print than the traditional scrub offers.
Current print trends are becoming bigger and bolder. Prints are focusing on large motifs, instead of a smaller patterned print. The larger print creates a more modern, sophisticated look. Which is an aura which the smaller print fails to project. This larger print trend will be very helpful in creating a more sophisticated looking scrub. [8] [9]
Medical Technology
From new electronic medical treatments to robotic check-ups, the medical field is being rapidly transformed in our tech heavy age. These new technological treatments, are constantly changing how the the nurse functions within her job. Instead of focusing their attention on medical knowledge and human interactions, a nurse now needs to understand the inner-workings of complex technological devices - such as needle free diabetes care, and the use of the MelaFind optical scanner to detect cancer. A nurse's scrubs also need to adapt to the technological changes within the medical field. They need to function well with the new technology, while still portraying the nurse as comforting, approachable, and intelligent. [11], [12], [13]
Modern Technology
There is no doubt that technology is rapidly changing. Things are changing so fast, that in ten years the current technology will be obsolete. Some of the fastest developing technologies include but are not limited to artificial intelligence, blockchain cloud storage, virtual reality and virtual work spaces. Some predict that these technologies will revolutionize the workplace, by making data sharing easier, allowing more people to work in a virtual "cubical," and maybe even have workers replaced by robots.
Although the demands of the medical field make it harder for these same technologies to become fully realized, these new developments will most certainly transform the clinics and hospitals of today.
Inspiration
The inspiration for this niche comes from the combination of the technological with the feminine. The contrast of the harsher forms of technology against the softer, natural, feminine forms will be merged to create a seamless aesthetic. [10]
