A sunny outlook for our 2021 Fashion Forecast

Angela Antonello

This time last year, no one could have predicted tie-dye sweatsuits would become a uniform for many, as working from home became the new way of life. While I enjoyed my tie-dye sweatsuits as much as the next gal, it’s safe to say 2020 was kind of a wash in terms of fashion. Many of the earmarked trends fell by the wayside in favor of function and comfort and we can expect more of that in 2021.

No one wants to wear anything constricting anymore. After many months of pandemic living in our sweatpants and daytime pajamas there’s a collective move to a more generous silhouette — whether it’s wide-leg pants or an oversized blazer, comfort and function but in a new form are here to stay.

One staple piece in every women’s wardrobe should be a pair of wide leg trousers. Wide-leg pants are so versatile and perfect for sitting if you have multiple zoom meetings a day. They are available in many styles — from knit, to denim and even vintage.

For a more pulled together look, I suggest pairing wide-leg pants with an "on trend" second-skin top. Second-skin tops are essentially any top that grazes so close to your body, it might as well be a second layer of skin. While that might sound rather scary to some, the tops themselves are very comfortable, you'll forget all about the trend name. They are relevant across every season, are easy to wear, layer, and style, and come in so many variations and price points you are destined to find one to fit your style.

After a long however-many-months in quarantine, the last thing you will want to do come springtime is wear head-to-toe black. Luckily, that is not in the fashion forecast thanks to a variety of bold hues spotted on the runway. From sunny yellows to pretty pinks and striking silvers, Spring 2021 will be happy and bright.

Pantone announced that it had chosen two colors of the year for 2021: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating, a combination of dull, familiar gray and the bright yellow of lemon skin. This lends to say there is truly light at the end of the tunnel!

Although accessories took a back burner in 2020, they have always been a great way to update your look for the new year. Waist up dressing is having a revival in the Zoom age and that’s a boon for jewelry lovers. Videoconferencing - not to mention the masks we’re all wearing - has inspired designers to create a sort of halo effect.

In 2021 you will see certain statement pieces making a big comeback, and one of those is the large, chunky chain. Chokers were the length of choice and silver links will be seen everywhere. For many seasons yellow gold has been the metal of choice, but for Spring/Summer 2021, designers are on a silver streak. From oversized chain-links to thick cuff bracelets, fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Hermès, prove that silver is a sterling choice.

Along with silver, pearls will still be trending, but say goodbye to your classic strand and trade it in for more unique, freshwater shapes. Also on the rise are lab-grown diamonds, easy on your bank account yet just as beautiful as the real thing. Last but not least, beautiful beads will be everywhere, from thin, flat and neutral to big, bold and round. That’s right, folks - they’re bringing arm candy back.

On that note, although most of us embark on fewer outings these days, the need to schlep around our belongings remains. Whether we're carrying groceries, a variety of PPE, or essentials for a quick weekend getaway, women are still very much relying on our handbags. The palette pleaser this season is yellow. Yellow bags have taken over the runways and the streets. This trend is easy to replicate and it is timeless – choose a small clutch to spice up an outfit or find a mustard tote for your daily needs. There are so many shades to choose from that suit your taste, and they look incredible when paired with other vibrant hues or a monochromatic ensemble.

Many designers anticipate that in 2021 we will want to have more fun with our outfits and project a sunny outlook, whether that's via a rainbow print or wearing the most fabulous dress imaginable. Let’s make 2021 the year to enjoy clothes again! SWM