The old saying goes, “new year, new me;” and that goes the same for fashion, too. With a new season comes new trends, which will set the tone for the rest of the year.
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic threw everyone a curveball. With the majority of people working from home, fashion took an unexpected turn causing many brands to add lounge and athleisure wear to their line of products.
Aside from the most purchased (and, let’s face it, most necessary) accessory last year; the mask, the fashion industry saw a lot of tie-dye clothing, oversized sweatshirts and chunky sneakers.
Additionally, these comfy outfits were seen paired with jewelry that included stacked rings, hoop earrings varying in size and thickness and chunky choker-like chain necklaces. Cozy but make it #fashion.
So, are the trends from last year here to stay? Here’s what two industry experts had to say about their predictions for 2021.
Functionality and Comfort
According to Toronto-based fashion designer, Joseph Tassoni, whose pieces have rocked the runway at Toronto Fashion Week, comfortable apparel is here to stay.
“I think mixing functionality and comfort with fashionable pieces will be the trend in 2021, as we continue to navigate our clothing choices in this mix of working from home and leisure-wear lifestyle,” said Tassoni.
Senior makeup artist, Rosanna Villani, whose looks have also been seen on the runways of Toronto and Milan Fashion Weeks as well as in Vogue Italia, agrees with Tassoni.
“I think lounge wear and athleisure wear will continue to be a big theme this year,” said Villani.
Bright Colours
While the 2021 Pantone colour is Ultimate Grey, many people may not be interested in dressing down this year when it comes to colour.
After a year of uncertainty, people may be looking to convey optimism in the way they dress. This means wearing vibrant designs and a variation of colours in a single outfit.
But, while bright colours are here to stay in 2021, Villani does believe we’ll be saying goodbye to tie-dye and neon green.
We can probably blame Billie Eilish for that one.
Wonder and Whimsy
Along with bright colours, people may also be more inclined to wearing patterns this year. Think Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
“I think things have been subdued for quite some time. I predict that we’ll see a return to whimsical, over the top designs,” said Villani. “People are ready and in need of fun and excitement!”
Face Masks
Last year, face masks became an essential form of staying safe and simultaneously became an outfit staple. While masks remain a necessity this year, Tassoni believes we’ll still be seeing them for some time after.
“Even once we’ve made it through the pandemic, I do think face masks will stick around,” said Tassoni.
Supporting Local
A big trend last year was to support local and with the ongoing pandemic, businesses can expect consumers to continue shopping locally this year and beyond.
“The trend of supporting local is only going to continue,” said Tassoni. “I’m very proud that Canadians are embracing the support local movement.”
Photos courtesy of Pexels