These are the hottest clothing trends of 2021

Gone are the days when a trip to the mall or a fashion magazine landing at your doorstep was the only way to uncover the latest clothing trends. Today, we have a wealth of fashion intel right at our fingertips, and we're here to fill you in on 2021's biggest trends.

In a year where our world felt upside down, the fashion industry has more than delivered by keeping us inspired from the comfort of our sofas. Catwalks became more front room than front row, with most designers opting for virtual shows, while influencers graced our grids with a steady slew of outfits. 

Lockdown kept us searching for the best leggings and had us living in loungewear seven days a week. But since clothes are the spirit of fashion, we've rounded up the top clothing trends that are here to stay in 2021.

The hottest looks

1. Neutrals

Music to the ears of the minimalists, neutral shades are here to stay. It’s a true beige buffet, with Pantone’s Colour Institute experts reporting that the dulcet tones of Buttercream, Desert Mist, and Willow were key at New York’s Spring/Summer 2021 Fashion Week. These natural shades reflect our back-to-nature approach and are also unsurprisingly simple to incorporate into your wardrobe. Use these muted colors to temper bold brights and pastels, or mix and match different brown shades for a tonal look. 

Get the look

One of the neutrals fashion trend's biggest benefits is that investing in these simple pieces won't induce any buyers regret by next season. A beige trench is a perfect cover-up for in-between days, smartening up even the most casual outfits. 

When layering up shades, wearing darker brown tones closer to your body will create the illusion of a slimmer frame. This sleek and simple jumper has been crafted from high-quality lambswool.

Perfectly tip-toeing the line between classic and contemporary, the faux leather fabric and bow detail give this otherwise simple skirt an edge. Getting a thumbs up for quality, reviewers have reported this looks just like the real deal. 

2. Great outdoors

When Gucci collaborated with The North Face at the start of this year, it was official - getting out and about in nature is the new going out-out. Bringing fashion and functionality together, the maximalist collection is brimming with practical puffers, hike-ready backpacks, and statement walking boots. Recreate the look for less by snuggling into a duvet coat until the mercury rises, layered over a pretty midi dress. Of course, when you’re adventuring, a flimsy sole won’t do, so embrace the fashion trend for heavy, stompy boots too. They’re the perfect antidote to spring’s traditionally fussy florals and frills. 

Get the look

When an actual duvet day isn't an option, heading out in a coat akin to a sleeping bag is the next best thing. Designed to fit slightly oversized, there's plenty of room for layering knits underneath. A water repellent outer keeps water out, while a fluffy 100% recycled down and feather filling traps heat in. 

Fleece garments have garnered an unfair reputation over the years, but nothing quite beats them for coziness. The lilac shade and shaped hemline give this one a modern feel—team with everything from your best workout leggings to dresses.

No need to splurge on a separate pair of boots for forest walks. These will take you from city to country with ease. The chunky track sole not only adds extra height but will reduce the chance of slipping on muddy days too. 

3. Pajama party

After close to a year spent mainly at home, the waters of what counts as indoor and outdoor clothing are well and truly muddied. And thanks to brands like Desmond & Dempsey and Sleeper, our obsession with loungewear and luxe pajamas is showing no signs of going to bed. The good news is, there’s no reason why you can’t take your best jammies and nighties out with you when life returns to normal. The silky, fluid fabrics are perfectly suited to evening wear, especially when worn with heels and a blow-dry. An outfit you don’t need to change out of when you get home? Sign us up.

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We know the price is a little steep for these pajamas - but just look at them! We can't get enough of the creamy cappuccino shade, mother-of-pearl buttons, and Sleeper's signature feather trim. 

Inspired by the slinky silhouette of a vintage nightgown, we love everything about this slip dress - the regal shade, the spaghetti straps, the soft embroidery. Wear for an evening with a tailored blazer and heels, or for a day over a black roll-neck or long-sleeve Breton top. 

Best known for their bias-cut eveningwear and bridal collections, Ghost have recently branched out into nightwear. Expect vivid colours, pretty prints and the same high quality as their main range. 

4. Sustainably sourced

We know sustainability isn’t a clothing trend. It’s a much-needed movement. But it is something that needs flagging at every opportunity. Designers took leaps in the right direction for SS21, with Marni sending models down the catwalk in patchwork coats made from offerings of seasons in the past and Stella McCartney publishing an Eco-Impact report. Taking note and considering the impact and history of the clothes you’re wearing will help you make more informed choices. 

So, instead of falling for the lure of a bargain, think about how many times you’ll wear your new purchase before you buy. If it’s less than 7, it’s not worth it. Another good test is to enforce a ‘cooling-off period.’ Leave your online shopping basket overnight, and if everything in it still feels like a sensible investment in the morning, go for it. But chances are you’ll be taking at least one thing out. Timeless pieces like a good pair of jeans, a trench coat, and a crisp white shirt will never date. 

Get the look

Kitri makes all their clothing in small batches, which not only avoids overproduction and creating unnecessary waste but reduces the chance of you bumping into someone wearing the same outfit, making it a brand that's morally sound and good for the environment. Shop the Nora dress quick, as nothing on Kitri sticks around for long. 

Cinta The Label craft their designs from recycled materials (when possible) to help reduce waste within the fashion industry. This pretty blouse is made from bamboo cotton, lightweight fabric from a fast-growing plant. 

If brownie points were awarded for every eco-conscious move a brand made, Baukjen would have a sash full of them. Not only is their supply chain Carbon Negative, but 83% of their latest collection has been made from sustainable and biodegradable fibers. These organic cotton jeans are a timeless piece worth investing in. 

5. Extra, extra!

Can't remember the last time you wore color? Us neither. Luckily, the fashion industry has chosen to ignore the nation's somber mood and whipped us up a frenzy of smile-inducing pieces. Expect cheery colors, cheeky logos, and a plethora of touch-me textures. Just what we need after a year spent almost exclusively in monochrome jersey and spandex. Now, we’re not suggesting you don head-to-toe sparkles for a trip to the supermarket (although we wouldn’t judge you if you did) but instead, think about adding that little bit 'extra’ to every outfit. Think of a statement top with plain black trousers or a jazzy shoe with boyfriend jeans and a t-shirt. 

Get the look

We love a multi-tasker, and this longline shirt can be worn in a myriad of different ways. Wear buttoned-up over leather leggings or skinny jeans for the evening, or open in place of a kimono with a t-shirt layered beneath for the day. It would even work as a fancy kaftan when beach vacations return. 

The classic white trainer has been given a rainbow update, and we can't get enough of it. Use yours to add interest to all-monochrome outfits. 

If cozying up in a coat that looks like something from the set of Sesame Street isn't enough to put a smile on your face, we're not sure what will. Make like the model and keep the rest of your outfit simple. Green isn't for everyone, so opt for the pastel pink version instead if you're feeling shy.