Let’s hope 2021 brings about a resurgence of formal dresses and jeans, but in the meantime, sweat pants and comfort are still supreme. While what you wear to work might be the same as what you wear to watch Netflix, fashion has not gone away as we transition our wardrobes to a pandemic lifestyle. I’ve compiled a list of trends to start off the year below.
1. Sustainable Fashion
Hopefully, this year is finally the year we say goodbye to fast fashion and put more thought into where our clothes come from. The apparel industry is one of the world’s largest polluters due to unsustainable practices and waste. Consider looking into brands such as Reformation or Everlane for quality sustainable fashion or H&M’s Conscious Collection (the Swedish brand pledged to go carbon neutral by 2030.)Thrifting vintage and second-hand clothing is a popular way to save money while also shopping responsibly.
2. Velvet, Satin, and Silk
In the age of Zoom, jeans aren’t the answer. Sweats are comfy and perfect for that early morning still-in-bed class, but what to wear to an interview or important meeting? Enter the stretchy-band velvet or silk pants. They are loose and comfortable while looking fancy and stylish at the same time, quite honestly the perfect kind of pants for the times. Check out these lux looking red velvet pants from Graham & Spencer or these jewel green silk Reformation pants.
3. Novelty Sweatpants/Sweatshirts
The cute matching sweatsuit emerged as the unofficial pandemic uniform last spring. This year, switch it up a bit with these cool white marble sweatpants from Onzie or this Aviator Nation sweatshirt. Zoom sweatsuits aren’t just limited to pants; ry a pair of cute sweat shorts to lounge around in, such as these Aritzia shorts that come in a rainbow of colors.
4. Beaded Necklaces
Remember those cute little DIY beaded necklaces with the block letters you’d string up as a kid? Well, they’re back in a big stylish way. Rainbow beads and monograms work perfectly with loungewear, making beaded necklaces not just for children anymore! Check out this stacked bead and pearl necklace from the ever-trendy Brinker & Eliza or this fun star necklace from Urban Outfitters.
5. Simple Soft Cardigans
Cozy clothes rule our current stay-at-home winter. The humble cardigan has made a roaring comeback this year with its practicality and comfort. No longer a staple of your grandma’s closest, cardigans are a simple way to add warmth and comfort to any outfit while still looking trendy. Easy to layer, try this cute white embroidered sweater from English Factory, this fluffy and oh-so-soft cardigan from Aritzia, or Madewell’s classic and straightforward buttoned cardigan.
6. Statement Collars
Thanks to Netflix’s hit show Bridgerton, we’re all taking style tips from the Regency Era in 2021. Bold shoulders and necklines define the trend, with collars as a small detail that can make a big statement. Try layering sweaters with blouses such as this GANNI collared blouse for a fresh take on the classic sweater-shirt preppy style, or spend the summer in a simple oversized collared dress such as this one from re:named. For the ultimate Bridgerton style: this English Factory floral v-neck shirt is bound to make a statement.
7. Oversized Blazers
While few people might actually be going into the office, it doesn’t mean that the professional blazer has to disappear. Oversized blazers offer a trendy and fresh take on the traditional style and are easy to dress down with a graphic tee and jeans. Being oversized also means that they are more comfortable to live in without sacrificing a professional look. Check out this 1 State grey plaid blazer or this edgy yet refined leather blazer from Reformation
8. Classic Neutrals and Prints
Classic prints such as herringbone, houndstooth, and suiting stripes make for an elegant outfit that’s easy to put together with soft neutrals such as browns and tans. Check out these chestnut faux leather trousers from BlankNYC and pair them with a fun gingham top such as this one from Madewell.