Cozy rebellion

This winter, a new fashion trend has emerged among young people in China, as they move away from the pursuit of high-end, fast-fashion brands and instead turn to their parents' wardrobes for practical alternatives.

Items such as worn work jackets and oversized knitted cardigans may not project the sleek sophistication of tight-fitting tops and trench coats, but they offer comfort and durability.

Young people are also discovering that clothing typically found in stores catering to middle-aged or older men and women can offer surprising levels of quality. These pieces are often simple yet well-constructed and made from premium materials such as cashmere and silk, all at a fraction of the price.

This preference for so-called "unattractive" items echoes the "ugly chic" concept coined by Miuccia Prada, the head designer at Prada, in 1996.

"I love it when fashion gets weird and takes us outside trends that make everybody look the same," Australian fashion editor Lucianne Tonti told the Sydney Morning Herald. "Exploration and expressions of individuality push the industry — which can be extremely derivative — forward, and that's always a good thing."

It seems today's youth are more interested in finding a style that nourishes their well-being than chasing fleeting trends — because who needs perfection when you've got comfort and character?