5 Key Fashion Trends For 2021
(Photo: Molly Goddart)
Curating a wardrobe that makes you feel good can be empowering—especially when everything is up in the air and out of our control—so why not start the year on a high note by picking up a few new items that inject positive vibes into the daily task of getting dressed?
To get you started, we’ve combed the runways and rounded up a handful of wardrobe updates that walk the line between fresh and familiar. Oversized silhouettes give wardrobe staples like crisp button-downs and jeans a WFH-appropriate update, while pretty pastels provide a much-needed shot of colour therapy. If you're itching to go outside, get yourself a sporty piece of outerwear, or click "purchase" on the perfect pair of slip-on shoes. See? 2021 looks better already.
Trend #1: Sorbet Hues
On days that require a mighty pick-me-up, put the power of colour to work. On the Chanel, Thebe Magugu and Max Mara spring runways, designers tapped into uplifting hues like pink, lilac, powder blue and lemon.
The joy of pastels is that they’re easy to incorporate into any existing wardrobe. Go all in with a sorbet-coloured dress, or punctuate your favourite neutral pieces with a bright garment. For a daintier pop of colour, try adding a bold bag or shoes to your look. This year, there’s no wrong way to wear colour—it’s all about what makes you happy.
Trend #2: Wide-Leg Jeans
At this point in the pandemic, it’s a hefty task to drum up excitement for zippered pants—but hear us out! With their loose cut and flattering lines, wide-leg jeans are the perfect way to slowly transition back from sweatpants to denim.
To get started, take a cue from the runways, where wide-leg jeans were spotted in a light blue wash and paired with delicate silk blouses at Chloé and Victoria Beckham, while Ami opted for a deep indigo shade and a matching sleeveless chambray shirt to introduce a stylish take on the Canadian tuxedo. The results were simply irresistible and made one thing clear: it’s time to rediscover the versatility of dreamy denim.
Trend #3: Oversized Shirts
This year, the collared shirt is being blown up to generous proportions to create the ideal WFH outfit. Minimalists will love the long, oversized classic white button down seen at Schiaparelli, as well as Michael Kors Collection's sleek pinstripe tunic. And maximalists can partake, too! Valentino and Balenciaga gave oversized shirts a bold update with juicy pinks and oranges.
Easily worn with pants, jeans or even a full skirt, the relaxed silhouette knocks the stuffiness out of the traditional office staple. A must-have for all shapes and sizes, these ample cuts also reduce pesky button gaping if you have a fuller bust line.
Trend #4: Sporty Outerwear
From legendary brands such as Burberry and Miu Miu to independent labels like Molly Goddard, athleisure vibes were beamed out at full force on the spring runways. The standout piece? A sporty piece of lightweight outerwear to transition from winter to warmer weather.
This spring, a stylish windbreaker, anorak or warm-up jacket is a must-buy. Look for hoods, back vents and drawstring details in both neutral and bright shades. Pick your player and get out there!
Trend #5: Slip-On Shoes
After a tough year, easy is the name of the game—especially when it comes to footwear. A slew of designer labels—including Thakoon, Tory Burch and Chanel—got the memo early and shared updates of slip-on styles, such as woven mules, low-cut sneakers and sleek loafers. And Hermès proved that, yes, you can wear clogs with everything!
Whether spring finds you on the go or in your home office, a slip-on shoe is a chic-meets-comfortable way to make it through the day.
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