Sick Chic

By Melissa August, Harriet Barovick, Michelle Derrow, Tam Gray, Lina Lofaro, Ellin Martens, David Spitz and Chris Taylor

DRAFT DODGING The patient "gowns" provided at doctors' offices and hospitals offer about as much comfort--and coverage--as paper napkins. Spotting a gap in the market, Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey had Cynthia Rowley design a "Hospital Chic" line so its patients could be not just dignified but soigne. The all-cotton ensembles reflect current fashion, with cap sleeves for women and wide-leg, drawstring pants for men. Now, if only she could do something about the food.