Friday Fives: 2021 Fashion Trends

After almost a year of being cooped up, students are predicted to start expressing themselves more than before through art, music and especially clothing as social media has formed new aesthetic lifestyles. Here are five popular fashion items expected to trend in 2021:

Puffy jackets

Puffy jackets are becoming increasingly popular this winter for men and women. The trend tends to exaggerate the size of the jacket by contrasting it with a smaller shirt and pants. North Face, a big brand behind the jacket, is seen as the most common brand worn for this look. North Face offers a men’s 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket for $279.

Sweater vests

Sweater vests emerged this past fall, worn by both men and women, as thrifting has become a recreational activity among teens. Since they seem to be found almost anywhere, popping up equally in thrift stores and with larger brands, this item of clothing is a conveniently sold trend that will likely continue into this spring. Sweater vests come in a variety of colors and patterns widely worn over collared shirts, turtlenecks or even with nothing underneath. Thrift stores offer sweater vests between $2-$7, while online retailers like Amazon offer a men’s Tommy Hilfiger Cotton Sweater Vest for $30.86.

Fluffy bags

Fluffy bags, made with plain colors or animal prints, have become trendy on TikTok as creators on the app have begun to make and sell them.  These bags emulate fashion from the 90s and early 2000s. However, these can be difficult to find from large retailers and are purchased more commonly through small businesses on platforms such as Depop. A Depop user offers a Tan Fluffy Leopard Print Bag for $25.

Patchwork pants

Patchwork pants are sold by both small businesses and larger brands. Men and women have created patchwork jeans and sweatpants through small businesses by cutting up sweatshirts and different jeans in order to reconstruct them into a patchwork look. Quilts and blankets have also been adapted to achieve this look. Frankie Collective offers Upcycled Patchwork Sweatpants for $120.

Crossbody bags

Crossbody bags have emerged as a way for men to carry bags in contrast to purses and messenger bags. Popular ensembles containing crossbody bags include over the top of puffy jackets and several layered tops. One thing that’s great about these bags is they offer some functionality in which they can hold keys, a phone or a wallet. Crossbody bags tend to be sold by larger brands such as Urban Outfitters, rather than smaller shops. Urban Outfitters offers a Washed Canvas Tech Crossbody Bag for $34.