If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I’m all about simplicity and versatility in clothing, right? I don’t usually throw the word “fashion” around in my articles because we’re talking more about personal style than jumping on fleeting trends. However, keeping an eye on what’s happening in the fashion world can be pretty eye-opening. It allows you to gauge the flow of what’s going on, catch glimpses of top designers’ visions, and maybe spark a few fresh ideas for your own outfits. It’s easy to say “yes” to everything, but knowing when to say “no” to trends that aren’t for you? Now that’s where true style shines. 😎
Fashion runways don’t just showcase clothes; they mirror the pulse of society. So, with the past year’s global turmoil due to COVID-19, it’s fascinating to see how this has impacted the trends we’re seeing now. Let’s dive into some of the standout Fall/Winter 2021 trends and what they say about the world we’re living in right now.
Red Alert
Why so much red? Well, designers are clearly trying to catch our attention, especially since this season’s shows were mostly streamed online with few or no live audiences due to the pandemic. Plus, after all the global gloom, we might just need something “bright” to lift our spirits. 🌟
Knit Polo Shirts
An interesting shift this season: traditional shirts are nowhere to be found. Why? Well, most of us have been stuck at home during quarantine, so why not embrace comfort? Enter long-sleeved polo shirts, which have quickly taken the spotlight as the go-to for relaxed yet stylish looks.
Pandemic Spa Day
Ermenegildo Zegna threw us a curveball with a spa-inspired dressing gown - think fluffy robe with a belt, the kind you throw on after a long bath. Fendi followed suit with quilted materials, and Louis Vuitton gave us models strutting in dressing gowns while sipping coffee and reading newspapers. Talk about staying in style while staying in. 🛁
Rubber Boots
Rubber boots are having a moment this year. From Tod’s sleek, classic designs to Jil Sander’s fancier laced versions and Dior’s military-inspired takes, there’s a rubber boot for everyone. Style tip: tuck your slim-fit pants into the boots, and keep the upper half of your look relaxed. Personally, I’m not sold on this trend, but are you? 😆
The Return of the Trench Coat
The trench coat is hardly new, but this year, it’s all about oversized versions. The classic beige remains a staple, but designers are making the trench a bit more dramatic and relaxed. A perfect piece to layer up this season.
Sweater Vests – Back from the 90s
What’s old is new again! Sweater vests are having a revival, with everything from bold Fair Isle patterns to oversized versions from A-Cold-Wall*, Jil Sander, and Issey Miyake. The "grandpa" look is officially back in style, and it’s surprisingly fresh.
Suits, but Not as You Know Them
The traditional suit? It’s taking a backseat this season. Instead, we’re seeing coordinated tops and bottoms, because let’s face it - who needs a full three-piece suit when you’re working from home? 😆 Comfort is key, and this shift to easy, stylish matching sets says it all.
Leather Overcoats
Leather makes a bold statement this year with overcoats taking center stage. It’s like a throwback to the Matrix days, but with a modern twist. 🖤
Mini Bags
As the world slowly opens back up, the days of huge travel bags may be behind us for now. Enter the mini crossbody/neck bags, just big enough for the essentials - your phone, wallet, mask, and hand sanitizer. Because, let’s be real, that’s what we’re carrying around these days. 😅
Turtleneck Sweaters
A winter classic, turtlenecks remain a staple. Available in all sorts of materials, colors, and patterns, these versatile pieces are still dominating this season. Neutral tones are the go-to, making it easy to layer or wear on their own.
Cheerful Patterned Sweaters
Designers are using bold patterns and relaxed fits to brighten our spirits. With so many creative designs on sweaters this season, it’s clear that fashion is lifting us up after a long time of confinement.
Camel Tones
Camel is the color of the season. Many of the most celebrated Fall/Winter 2021 pieces are bathed in warm camel hues. This is designers’ response to Pantone’s 2021 Color of the Year, Illuminating Yellow - showing us that warmth and optimism are key this year.
Trend insights via GQ.
Comments