As if I need any excuse to shop for new clothes, the close of the year always feels like the perfect opportunity. After working from home since March of this year (like many of us), it’s become increasingly obvious which pieces I’m constantly reaching for in the absence of big events, pulling me closer to the minimal wardrobe aesthetic that has long been lingering in the back of my mind anyway. On the other hand, admittedly, looking to 2021 with the hope for “normalcy” does ignite a craving for at least a couple of statement pieces, like the chunky boots I’ve been eyeing. Then, there is of course, looking to the wardrobe shifts key players in the fashion industry are making, and what I’ve come to find is that many people are using this time to shop with practicality and longevity as a first priority, and I couldn’t agree more.
The ideal 2021 wardrobe for me is one that will be immensely mix and matchable by way of key items such as blazers and a comfortable pair of everyday heels, and one that strays away from items I can’t confidently say I’ll be in love with in three years – or even three months – time.
Truthfully, I can’t say swapping out a piece or two doesn’t feel like an apt way to treat myself after what was a trying year for us all. If you, too, are looking for ways to start anew come Jan. 1, ahead are all the trends I’m leaving behind next year and the seven things I’m reaching for instead.
Getty / Edward Berthelot
What I’m tossing: Sleek Boots
This may sound counterintuitive, but I’m enjoying where much of the fashion collective is right now in the way of opting for boots with distinct character that feel like a statement against an understated outfit, versus a sleeker, more simple alternative.
Getty / Matthew Sperzel
What I’m loving: Chunky Boots
The chunky, lug-sole silhouette is easier to dress up than you’d think, and of course, a breeze to pair with all of your casual looks. Their best attribute is the ability to provide an element of surprise to any get-up.
Getty / Christian Vierig
What I’m tossing: Sweat Pants
I’ve spent the greater half of 2020 wearing sweats, and needless to say, as cozy as they are, I’m missing the feeling of “put-togetherness” a slightly more polished pant can provide.
Getty / Matthew Sperzel
What I’m loving: Elevated Lounge Pants
Such a thing does exist. Palazzo pants, knitted trousers, and even oversize suit pants are the quickest route to looking like you tried, without sacrificing comfort.
Getty / Edward Berthelot
What I'm tossing: Stiletto Heels
If I’m being honest, I haven’t touched an excessively high heel all year, but I’ve now made the decision to officially pass mine on to a happier home, and replace them with a decidedly more wearable alternative.
Getty / Matthew Sperzel
What I’m loving: Comfy Mules
Mid-heeled mules have earned the hearts of most every fashion-girl on, and the love affair is well within reason. After discovering the style as the comfy sister to a pair of ultrahigh, strappy heels, I’m never looking back.
Getty / Jeremy Moeller
What I’m tossing: Chunky Cardigans
This wardrobe mainstay has reigned for years, but in the near future, I’m going for more refined layering options.
Getty / Christian Vierig
What I’m loving: Oversize Blazers
Oversize blazers come with the loose comfort of a cardigan, but have the ability to elevate your outfit in an instant. You’ll find me pairing them with everything from denim to those knitted trousers I mentioned earlier.
Getty / Christian Vierig
What I’m tossing: Mini Sunglasses
It’s the sunglasses trends we can’t ever seem to stay away from, but where functionality is concerned, the style is admittedly lacking.
Getty / Jeremy Moeller
What I’m loving: Large Frames
Fashion’s return to trends of the early aughts have inspired an enjoyable range of shield sunglasses designs from new brands. Alternatively, you can go the vintage route when shopping out this style, too.
Getty / Jeremy Moeller
What I’m tossing: Distressed Boyfriend Jeans
Probably to my parents’ dismay, I’m not without the obsession for ripped baggy, denim, but I’ll argue that other jean styles may give the remaining pieces of your outfit the much-needed room to steal the show.
Getty / Daniel Zuchnik
What I’m loving: Straight-Leg Jeans
Recent research (aka scrolling through Instagram, coupled with trial and error) has revealed that there’s not a top on the market straight-leg jeans won’t pair well with.
Getty / Edward Berthelot
What I’m tossing: Colorblocking
I love varietal color as much as the next person, but next year, I’m choosing to focus on a more uniform style of dress.
Getty / Christian Vierig
What I’m loving: Monochrome
Something about a head-to-toe monochrome palette feels instantly chic. Plus, it’s so easy to style, and you can take the look into any season depending on the shades you choose.
