Emerging Fashion Trends: Color, Print, and Design in 2021

Mia McCarthy
As we ring in the new year, it's time for new beginnings and most importantly new trends! The global pandemic led to a prolonged period of loungewear and stay-at-home-quarantine fashion, so it’s really exciting to see what designers and brands have worked on during this time. From colors to patterns to designs, let’s take a look at what 2021 has in store for the fashion industry
Fashion Trends That Attract the Human Eye
First off, let’s talk about anticipated color trends and how to incorporate them into your line of apparel. The 2021 color scale is heavily influenced by the chaos of 2020, but also emphasizes hope and positivity. The Pantone Color Institute released two colors defining 2021: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating. This color combination highlights contrast more than anything. Ultimate Gray is a solid, dull gray whereas Illuminating is a bright, lemon-like yellow. The pair portrays the feeling of sunshine after a rainstorm, something deep and dark right before reaching the warm light at the end of the tunnel - very felicitous for the year we’ve had!
Along with the distinct colors of the year, I’ve curated a list of colors that are sure to make the headlines this upcoming 2021 Spring fashion season.
Pastel tones (Lilac, Mint, Soft Pink, Baby Yellow and Soft Aqua)
Monochromatic Moods: Black and Whites, either individually or paired together (once again emphasis on the contrast!).
Perfect Pair: Caramels & Yellows (warm tones are essential)
A Splash of Blue & Yellow: From handbags to hair clips, accessories matter.
Sparkly Numbers: Heavy on the glitter & glam!
Trending Prints & Patterns That Pop
Along with the color scheme comes deciding what patterns to work well within it. In 2021, customers will seek looks that are subtle and visually appealing. These will emphasize simplicity rather than going full force into using multitudes of colors and patterns. Here are some of my print and pattern predictions for the year:
Gingham: Think picnic tablecloth… but make it fashion!
Plaid (Burberry’s favorite)
Stripes on Stripes
Polka Dots
Abstract Artistic Strokes (yes, that means tie dye as well)
Animal Print Of Course (tigers, snakes and zebras… oh my!)
Bright Florals (“groundbreaking”)
Folk Art: Cross stitching influenced by culture and/or bohemian print
Contemporary Designs for Spring 2021
Last but certainly not least we dive into arguably the most important trend: the style and design of apparel:
Oversized Shoulder Pad Jackets: This blazer type jacket sleekly pulls any outfit together.
Black Face Masks: Black goes with everything, and is obviously an essential.
White Booties/Knee High Boots
Fringed Bags: These are a spring staple that adds texture and turns heads.
Bralettes are Back (perfectly paired with high waisted anything)
Flossing: This unique approach uses string fabric to wrap the body, easily adding criss cross patterns into the design.
Floor Length Dresses
The time spent in quarantine has sparked the emergence of new ideas and creativity for fashion’s Spring 2021. It’s so interesting to see certain trends circling back and others just starting off! Use this guide as inspiration and go create something amazing!
Mia is currently in her third year at Chapman University studying both Business Administration and Dance. She values meaningful experience more than anything, working as a spin instructor and a marketing intern, she's driven to become the best version of herself possible. MakersValley has pushed her to explore the complexities of content marketing and she's truly growing as a young business professional!
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