2021 Trends That Are as Easy to Wear as Sweatpants
If you’ve spent the past several months in your comfort zone — where your softest, waistband-free clothing live — just know there are lots of exciting options that lay beyond. In fact, should you need a little nudge to break out of a style rut or mix up your current essentials, start with the latest trends of 2021. They include throwback denim silhouettes and heavier-set accessories that have been spotted on the biggest runways in the world, as well as playful prints that have blown up all over social media. While these looks can all be quite bold, they’re also uncomplicated to incorporate into your existing wardrobe. Below, read up on these six styles and how to wear them without straying too far from your comforts.
As comfortable and as stretchy as they may be, skinny jeans aren’t the only denim silhouette worthy of your attention. In 2021 embrace a baggy shape that’s reminiscent of the ones you might have worn in the ‘90s, but with a modern upgrade. In-the-know brands are offering the loose, laid-back look with a bit of tailoring and shape, creating a relaxed-but-never-sloppy fit. Approach this trend like any other oversize silhouette and wear it with a more slim-fit tee or knit to balance out the proportions. You can find this style at premium denim labels and fast-fashion brands alike. In fact, Forever 21 is offering 1% to 15% Honey Gold (terms apply).
SHOP: High-Rise Boyfriend Jeans, $29.99, available at Forever 21; Agolde Balloon Ultra High Rise Curved Taper, $188, available at Revolve; Eloquii Wide Leg Jean, $104.95, available at Eloquii
As seen in collections from Copenhagen-based Ganni and fast-fashion brands such as Topshop, the bib collar is everywhere. Where Zoom tops have been the waist-up answer to speedy work dressing, this statement-making collar adds a bit more zhuzh with ruffles that stretch nearly shoulder to shoulder. Wear the piece with your favorite high-waist pants or layer it under a sweater, allowing the frills to drape over your collar. For an even easier solution, opt for a separate collar accessory that can be paired with any top or dress you already own.
SHOP: Topshop Brushed Check Collar Blouse, Now $45; Was $65, available at Nordstrom; Kkco Removable Prairie Collar, $55, available at LCD; Ganni + Net Sustain Ruffled Organic Cotton-Poplin Shirt, $185, available at Net-a-Porter
It’s hard to scroll though Instagram today without seeing fashion's latest obsession: the checkerboard print. A mod cousin of the iconic plaid or gingham print, the look can be casual on classic styles (see: Van’s slip-on sneakers) or fresh and playful across dresses and jeans alike. To keep the print pared back, keep the styling simple and choose complementary basics and solid colors.
SHOP: Lisa Says Gah Sloane Midi Slip Dress, $169, available at Lisa Says Gah; Vans Black & Off-White Checkerboard OG Classic Slip-On LX Sneakers, $75, available at Ssense; The Ragged Priest Checkerboard Dad Jean, $90, available at Dollskill
The most charming trend of 2020 is keeping its momentum in the New Year. Cottagecore isn’t categorized by one singular item; it’s an aesthetic that suggests you live a pastoral life in which you make breakfast with eggs you sourced from your own chicken coop and take afternoon strolls among wildflowers. If this sounds like your fantasy, by all means, indulge it with sweet smock dresses, airy fabrics, and delicate detailing. To fully embody the trend, style these pieces with a coordinating hair accessory and strappy sandals. For a more balanced, down-to-earth approach, pair with sneakers or a leather jacket.
SHOP: The Nelsi Nap Dress, $125, available at Hill House Home; Plus Size Purple Floral Shirred Frill Cuff Midi Smock Dress, Was $61; Now$30, available at Missguided; River Top, $198, available at Doen
The era of dainty, layered chains is taking a back seat to a thicker style. The look has been championed by brands such as Victoria Beckham and Sacai and call for a weightier link (or, for comfort sake, the appearance of one). This jewelry trend is perhaps the easiest to incorporate right away, as a statement earring, necklace, or bracelet can take even a full-body sweatsuit to the next level. Try it — you won’t regret it.
SHOP: 8 Other Reasons x Jenn Im Cinespia Chain Choker Necklace, $44, available at Nordstrom; Missoma Lucy Williams Gold T-Bar Chain Bracelet, $162, available at Missoma; Paco Rabanne Chain Hoop Earrings, $280, available at Mytheresa
The leather (real or faux, your preference) button-down shirt has been gaining popularity — it’s an easy upgrade to a chambray, flannel, or linen top. The texture is what makes this piece so special as it lends a buttery-soft and subtly shiny element to whatever it’s paired You can simply toss it over your favorite jeans or leggings in place of a light jacket. Or, for something slightly more special, coordinate the piece into a timelessly chic monochromatic ensemble.
SHOP: BB Dakota West Intentions Top, $89, available at BB Dakota; Babaton Pelli Jacket, $178, available at Aritizia; Veda Helen Leather Shirt, $898, available at 11 Honore