Susan Feldman is the co-founder of One Kings Lane and In the Groove, a style destination where she shares her age-defying outfits and shopping tips. Feldman is also our resident style expert here at Who What Wear, and she’s shared everything from the seasonal staples she's living in to the style mistakes she won't repeat. Today, we’ve tapped her to discuss the trends she will and won't be wearing in 2021.
I think we can all agree that we will be happy to say goodbye to 2020. I mean what a bonkers year this has been for all. I thought as I bid adieu to 2020 it was the perfect time to get rid of things that don’t really serve a purpose any longer in my wardrobe. It feels great to have done some serious purging. I feel like I have shed some excess baggage and am ready to start 2021 with a fresh focused sensibility.
I hope this next year brings all of you tons of health and happiness. I would encourage you while you have the time to get in your closet and get rid of those things that no longer bring you joy. As for what I'll personally be retiring from my closet, I'm explaining why the following three items are getting the boot and, of course, what's replacing them. Keep reading to get inspired by closet refresh. Here's to a bright New Year!
Retiring: Stilettos
You may have guessed that this would be first on the list. This year has convinced me that although I definitely need a few key heels in my wardrobe I no longer need anything that resembles a stiletto.
The heels I'll keep:
Leaning Into: Ballet Flats
Today comfort is my number requirement for anything I am wearing especially shoes. I have been living in Birkenstocks which I still love but feel that I need to find other options. Ballet slippers are my answer. So watch me dance into 2021.
My ballet flat picks:
Tory Burch has really mastered the ballet slipper. This update with the square toe is fun and a great fashion statement.
Loeffler Randal velvet slippers check all the boxes—chic, pretty, and yes, comfy.
How pretty is this ruching?
The name says it all for Everlane’s Day Glove. It just doesn’t get more comfortable than these. This shoe seriously looks good with anything I wear it with whether it is a pair of sweats or a pair of leather pants.
These feel like you're walking on a cloud.
The square-toe makes these look so chic.
Retiring: Skinny Jeans
Next up are my skinny really skinny jeans. Some of them could even be considered jeggings. I definitely got my worth out of this look and today I find these types of jeans feel a little dated. The truth is if I am going to wear this look I much prefer a real legging.
The pair I'll keep:
Leaning Into: Vintage (and Vintage-Inspired) Jeans
I don’t mean to dwell on the comfy factor but it is the number one criteria for anything these days. There is nothing I love more than a great pair of broken-in jeans. The best news is that today you can buy jeans already broken in and don’t have to wear them to get them to the perfect place.
My vintage jean picks:
Re/Done is the gold standard for vintage jeans. I love everything about this pair. The wash is perfect and the silhouette is yes very comfy looking.
The name again says it all. Madewell has nailed it with the perfect vintage jean. The rips are strategically placed and definitely add a vintage vibe to this pair.
Look for a non-stretch pair like these for a genuine vintage denim look (without actually hunting for vintage jeans).
H&M always delivers on denim. This pair is great because they have a little bit of a higher waist and are slightly cropped. Perfection.
This relaxed fit is a denim lover's dream.
You'll reach for this denim fit over and over again.
Retiring: Oversize Bags
Forever I loved and coveted big really big bags especially ones by designers. When I was traveling and on the go these were great because I could get everything in them. Today I am not going anywhere and the only thing I might put in one of these bags is Ruby our Covid puppy. These bags served me well but now it is time to say au revoir and find bags that are more functional.
The bag I'll keep:
Leaning Into: Hands-Free Bags
My new go-to bag is what I used to call a fanny pack. It is a very 90s term. Today we call them belt bags. I started using these at the beginning of Covid and I don’t think I will stop. I have found chic designer ones that go with everything and can really up your look to those that are very affordable and great for every day.
My bag picks:
Gucci's belt bag is a classic and so chic.
Clare V is a great resource for all kinds of bags. You have to love a bag that is called the Grande Fanny. Great color and uber-chic.
Sleek and minimal.
Leather makes this casual bag so much more elevated.
This Lululemon one is great for grab-and-go. I love this color because I can always find it.
I can always count on Baggu for fun practical bags. This belt bag totally delivers. It has 2 pockets so I can absolutely take whatever I need when I am on the go.
Next up, take a look at all the under-$100 gifts on Susan's wish list.
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