When editors try to gauge what’s trending for upcoming seasons, it's typical to look to the runways, but sometimes the most impactful and persistent trends stem from the people you know. Take the Telfar bag–or otherwise affectionately known as the "Bushwick Birkin”– It may have just exploded to cult-like status this year, (Oprah even placed it on her list of 2020 Favorite Things), but I noticed it within my Brooklyn neighborhood on the arms of my friends, colleagues, and acquaintances going back to 2018. When something is so good that it becomes ubiquitous among stylish people, the editorial world can't help but notice. It’s instances like this that cause me to weigh my friends' opinions of fashion just as heavily as the designers that make them.
As we approach the new year, my mind is ever more conscious about what’s next for the changing fashion landscape. I consulted five of the coolest people I know (including those that were hip to Telfar way before it blew up) about the fashion buys and trends they see dominating 2021. Read on to see their full fashion forecast.
ROBYN MOWATT, WRITER
"I think clogs will make a comeback in 2021, mainly due to the fact that they're the polar opposite of sneakers which I think have had their moment. It's worth noting that Ugg x Eckhaus Latta created the chicest clog-inspired platforms I've ever laid my eyes on." -Robyn.
"I think instead of nameplate necklaces, fashion lovers might turn to emerging jewelry lines. Only Made is a newly launched brand offering their take on clean, elevated pieces like necklaces, bracelets, and earrings."
"For anyone tired of seeing the same bags on their Instagram feeds, my guess is that they'll turn to bags from brands that are just getting their feet wet. Marshall Columbia's Mini Plush Purse is an exciting option that might become a cult favorite next year."
ANDREW NGUYEN, FASHION NEWS WRITER
"Brands that make clothes with deadstock fabric like Collina Strada and Mia Vesper are living in the future — a sustainable future that we all should be working toward since there are way too many clothes that are wasted in landfills." –Andrew
"Dressing comfortably is a top priority for most of us nowadays. But the glitzy queen within me will never truly die. Nonchalant rhinestone trim on a cotton button-down perfect is the perfect blend of that."
"I'll be twirling on the streets in pleated skirts once things open back up again, specifically plaid schoolgirl ones. I'm totally into that look right now."
BECKY AKINYODE, STYLIST
"The trucker hat era was truly a vibe back in the day. It's a nostalgic item and this hat by Mowola, a Nigerian designer based in London captures the spirit of the early 2000s."–Becky
"The SS21 collections from brands like Burberry, Miu Miu, Bottega, and Givenchy featured some heavily embellished garments. Post Vaccine I think people are gonna step out looking FLY as HELL in heavily armored looks."
"Personally, I love a comfortable stylish sandal but what's even better is comfort + height. I really like the platform sandals from Bottega Veneta and Givenchy's latest collections- I think they are fab... sometimes it's just best to tower over your haters!"
LORENZO ATKINSON, EDITOR & MARKETING CONSULTANT
"I am huge on having an art-filled home, but some pieces just aren't accessible to me right now. So it was super dope that Nina Chanel x Uno created a special deck of cards - the moment I saw that I bought them ASAP."–Lorenzo
"I recently got this double-face cashmere blanket from Proenza Schouler and it's just super easy for quick walks to the bodega or if I am taking to my dog on a quick walk. I am plotting on a Loewe blanket next."
"I truly hate tying my shoes, or putting on loafers and I noticed artist/friend S*an D. Henry wearing these sick green clogs - so I decided I wanted to try some out, I went a more comfortable route and got these Birkenstocks that I literally live in now."
"I want everything tie-dyed nowadays, it's my favorite way of adding a bit of fun and child-like appeal to my wardrobe. AMP Wata creates these dope tie-dye t-shirts and hats–but good luck getting a hold of them, they sell out in seconds when she drops them on Instagram. I am praying one of my favorite artists, Brianna Rose Brooks, restocks their dope tees, they hand-dye each tee and add a screen print."
DEVINE BLACKSHER, ASSOCIATE FASHION EDITOR
"I love this showing your g-string moment that’s been happening, but I love it even more when it’s decorated with a gold chain or gold charms. It’s like a statement necklace for your backside. With 2020 being a year of reflecting and learning more about yourself, 2021 will be the year to step out and express yourself... hopefully through booty accessories."–Devine
"Over accessorizing with chunky statement rings/nameplate rings is really catching my eye. We all love a gold nameplate necklace, but now it’s time to make room for the rings. And like the NBA, the more rings you have the better."
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