During COVID-19, people are flocking to social media more than ever to connect with the outside world. And during this quarantine, there have been many ways users have bonded—from TikTok dances to “Tiger King” to Animal Crossing. However, perhaps the strangest phenomenon to hit social media is the pillow challenge.
The pillow challenge is as simple as can be. Just tie a pillow around your body (typically without clothes on) and take a selfie. Instagram users have shared their looks online with the hashtags #pillowchallenge and #quarantinepillowchallenge, accessories their pillow dresses with fashionable belts, heels, sunglasses and lipstick.
When I first came upon this challenge, my mind went to past social media trends—such as eating Tide Pods, sucking on shot glasses or measuring one’s waist using a piece of paper. However, instead of causing mental or physical damage—this challenge is just for fun and all bodies are welcome to participate. Even guys are participating!
The trend was started on April 5th by Swedish style bloggers @stylebynelli and @myforteisfashion, who took a break from posting glamorous outfits to pose in front of a camera wearing pastel pillow dresses. Nelli has even created a second challenge, the #glovenailchallenge and #glovejewelry challenge, where she decorated a pair of clear gloves with a black manicure and various gold rings. Only time will tell if these trends take off!
Some users have put their own spin on the pillow challenge by substituting pillows for comforters and sheets, creating the effect of elegant evening gowns as opposed to leg bearing party dresses.
So what are you waiting for? Everyone has the ability to participate in this challenge, as long as they’re not a vampire! We don’t know when another challenge will come along that’s this inclusive, easy and 100% percent free, so why not give it a go?
