Top 12 Things That Will Remain Fashionable into 2021

Fashion and current events are always linked, according to Christine Boland. She predicts popular fashion trends based on society’s shared experiences. As Fashion United describes, “The new decade is one of uncertainty and complexity, but also of limitless possibilities.”

Widespread current events means there is now a shared experience common to many nations and people. That also means that we can describe the top 12 things that will remain fashionable into 2021.

Statement colors

Pantone released three color trends it predicts for the Spring and Summer of 2021: Summer Bouquet, deep reds and yellows; Intoxicating, vibrant greens and purples; and Power Surge, vivid tones across the color wheel. As each part of the world rebuilds its next normal, expect statement colors to take to the fashion scene. It’s a signal for action.

Power shapes

In the world of fashion, power shapes are designed to make the wearer look taller, larger, or bolder than life. This means square or pointed shoulders, flaring material, and thick, wide clothing that has its own shape and character. As citizens of the world take back control, their clothing will reflect their intentions.

Health and fitness

According to a May 2020 report on Generation Z by UNiDAYS, this younger generation is spending more on health and fitness products than ever before. Prolonged time at home and the necessity of maintaining good health drives the investments. As a result, activewear and athleisure will continue to be important fashion trends into 2021, whether people stay in or go out.

Face masks and enigma

Face masks and enigmatic looks used to be the scope of East Asian idols, but the recent emphasis on facial protection is already changing that. As face masks become more and more popular, expect fashion to take over with different designs, colors, and styles. Face shields might take the place of sunglasses, and headdresses replace scarves.

Handmade and heritage

What happens when you leave people at home for so long? Not only do they pick up a new hobby or craft, they actually get better at it. With less ways to access new street fashion, people are digging into their closets and attics. Vintage will come back, as young people investigate their parents’ styles. Sewn or handmade accessories and clothing will also make it into the mix.

Nature and the environment

Starting with Hubei Province in China, and particularly seen across Europe, carbon emissions are dwindling and air quality is improving. The next generation, inspired by environmental activists like Greta Thunberg, is unlikely to go back to what was considered normal before. Expect a resurgence of earth- and foliage-tone clothing, floral prints or extremely plain fabric, and a rise in requests for any and all things organic.

Jewelry statements and classics

There is a need for people to feel grounded, and that will reflect in their jewelry choices. Gold and silver are back in, as are simple chain links. Pearls and precious stones are definitely back on the table. At the same time, subtlety is not what will remain fashionable into 2021: expect large or multiple pieces on display. Charms are also back in, a nod to the many revisiting their childhoods.

Covers and layers

Single pieces are no longer in. Instead, covers and layers now illustrate the current need to control what touches our skin. Expect shirts inside vests or jumpers, large jackets, long coats over long skirts, and other similar pieces. Sweaters, scarves, ponchos, and other related wear will also be an important fashion statement.

Framing of the eyes

In this digital age, expressions are communicated through emojis when people are apart. But what about when they are face to face, and their faces are still covered? The main expressions will be communicated in the eyes. Expect accessories and head styles that frame the eyes to become more common: headbands and large earrings, pulled-back hairstyles, bright headdresses, and so forth.

Comfort and relaxation

On the other side of the coin is habits ingrained by prolonged time at home. When it comes to fashionable material, even leather, expect a demand for softer and more flexible products. Cotton will stay classic, but material commonly used for active wear could enter the scene, as it is light and smooth on the skin, even for prolonged periods of time.

Slip-on and slide off

Footwear will definitely be a large part of fashion innovation in 2021. Slippers, long a part of house-wear, will merge with shoes or sandals. Slip-ons will come in and stay in, and in certain cases shoes that don’t require socks will join the trend. Slippers might be restyled for elegant use outdoors, and classic shoes will be modified for easier wearing and taking off.

Raincoats and capes

Protection is the name of the game. But not from the sun, or the rain, but the very air itself. Even subconsciously, people leaving their homes will look for clothing that makes them feel more protected than usual. Clear and fashionable raincoats will be one of these, as they provide chic but full-body protection. Flaring material, such as shoulder capes, will also become mainstream.

 

Make sure you stay ahead of the game!