2020 was all about tracksuits and pajamas. It was the year of throwing on a blouse and makeup for Zoom meetings, while fluffy leggings and slippers stayed hidden under the desk. Greasy hair? No problem. You get the idea.
But with 2021 on the horizon and vaccines rolling out, will the fashion habits of 2020 stick around? ASOS sold over 180,000 pairs of leggings and more than 760,000 tracksuits in 2020, far more than usual. As office spaces slowly fade and working from home becomes the norm, is there still a need for formal workwear? As life gradually returns to normal, will we all take the chance to dress up, or has dressing down become the new normal?
Fashion designers seem to have mixed feelings about this in their 2021 spring and summer collections.
Chanel’s latest ‘Cruise’ collection has a semi-formal, beachy vibe, which is quite different from their usual tailored, chic style. With a hint of seventies flair, the collection features vibrant pinks and peaches, serving up relaxed, summery looks that are ready to wear.
Dior, on the other hand, took a different approach with their collection, which they describe as a celebration of the traditional arts of Puglia, Italy. Designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri, the pieces are inspired by nature and the radiant landscapes of southern Italy. The prints are whimsical, the colors soft, and the motifs flamboyant, giving the collection a relaxed yet structured feel, with corseted belts and densely patterned clothing.
Gucci also leaned into the seventies vibe with bold, layered prints that clash in a stylish way. Their collection is full of loud, intense colors, especially pink. Slingback heels and blazers remain popular, while large glasses are making a comeback, signaling the end of the tiny glasses trend loved by Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner.
Ted Baker’s spring collection keeps things cozy but adds in vibrant seventies-style statement pieces. There’s a noticeable academic influence creeping in, with broad-shouldered blazers, high-necked blouses, and boucle skirts popping up. Even Chanel’s beachwear includes their classic boucle skirt-suit.
LK Bennett also taps into this trend, putting a fresh spin on timeless classics like the boucle skirt with bright, refreshing green fabric. Their collection also includes twill slacks paired with pussy bow blouses, giving a nod to the seventies while keeping things modern. Although their palette isn’t as bright as some other brands, pops of color show that neutrals are on their way out.
Zara took a more subdued approach with their skirt suit contribution, opting for a somber color scheme that still makes a bold statement. The pussy bow blouse makes another appearance here, in a bold print. Zara’s collection leans more on texture than color, and with the classic flared high-waisted jeans threatening a comeback, 2021 might just be the year bootcut jeans return in full force.
River Island’s collection is also more muted, likely due to the brand’s focus on streetwear. The monogram jacquard polo set stands out as one of their more colorful offerings, with a contemporary style that contrasts with the seventies trends we’ve seen from other brands. Their collection feels more nineties-inspired, with lots of leather, high-necks, and puff sleeves.
Most high street brands seem to agree that, for spring 2021 at least, lockdown chic is still in. H&M’s collection focuses on comfort with soft loungewear in muted creams, greys, and greens. Cozy knits and matching sets take center stage, with the emphasis on softness rather than structure. Some pieces also nod to the academic style, with loafers, high-waisted slacks, and sweater vests making an appearance – though I personally hoped that trend would stay in 2020.
Do any of these trends catch your eye? Are you planning to dress up or down in 2021? There’s a lot of uncertainty ahead, but one thing’s for sure – I’ll be dressing up every chance I get!