The problem of what to wear while lolling about the house on a Sunday afternoon is becoming more and more acute as the fashions in lolling garments change. The American home is in danger of taking on the appearance of an Oriental bordello.
This quote by Robert Benchley humorously captures the evolving nature of domestic fashion and the societal perception of leisurewear. It points out the paradoxical dilemma faced by individuals who wish to appear casual and comfortable during their leisure time at home. As fashion trends in loungewear change over time, people find it increasingly challenging to decide what is appropriate attire for relaxed, at-home afternoons, especially on a lazy Sunday. Benchley’s playful comparison of the American home to an Oriental bordello exaggerates to underscore the flamboyance or ostentatiousness that such changing trends might entail, implying that loungewear might become overly elaborate or inappropriate if not carefully chosen. On a broader level, this quote satirizes the societal obsession with appearance, even during private moments, and how fashion influences everyday life beyond mere functionality. It reflects a humorous critique of the tension between comfort and decorum, suggesting that the pursuit of stylish or distinctive leisure clothing might lead to unintended, perhaps even risqué, outcomes. This humorous observation remains relevant today, as many people grapple with the balance between comfort, fashion, and societal expectations in their home attire. It encourages us to think about how cultural norms influence lifestyle choices at a very personal level and reminds us that fashion is often intertwined with social identity and self-perception.
