Spring/Summer 2021 Trend Confirmation

As we slowly re-emerge from society’s winter + COVID-induced hibernation (thank you, sunshine + vaccine distribution), many of us will be asking ourselves “what do I wear?” Here at StyleSage, we’ve been tracking exactly how shoppers have been answering that infamous question.

Peering back at the digital Spring/Summer 2021 shows last September, there are a few trends that have already been quick-to-catch per sé amongst the tastemakers we turn to when looking for #outfitinspo and featured in our favorite glossy’s spring editorials. But better yet, it can all be backed by data.

Read on for a few trends we predicted have transformed from runway to retail and on the ‘Gram.

Relaxed Suiting

After months in sweats, we’re all yearning to start looking our best again while, most importantly, not sacrificing on comfort (there’s really no going back, right?). So, cue relaxed suiting. This optimal combination of oversized blazers and loose-fitting trousers can be worn together or mixed-and-matched with loungewear favorites to create a look that leaves you equally feeling and looking your best.

Below, you can see how oversized blazers, often used as layering pieces, have increased so far throughout 2021 from roughly 10% to 18% of new product introductions in the blazers category, and we can be assured that this will continue to rise as we get deeper into the Spring season.

Show Some Skin

Maybe it’s the warmer weather or travel daydreams that are almost a reality on the mind, but one of spring/summer’s hottest (pun intended) trends is showing some skin. Whether you’re just trying out a summer frock with a creative cut-out or going full-on Katy Perry a la California Girls-era, this trend is quickly realizing itself off the runways and into our closets. Keep an eye out for midriff floss, bralettes, hot pants, and cut-out details.

For example, here we can see that garments with cut-out details equate to nearly 12% of the new product introductions whereas in 2020 it was under 8% within all categories.

Vibrant Strokes

Printed or solid, vibrant hues are here and certainly making themselves known. Statement-making shades like citrus orange, electric lilac and a range of greens are the perfect solution to livening up tried-and-true pieces or making a splash on a spring-forward print.

This year, vibrant hues are making up 22% of new product introductions versus 16% of introductions in 2020 at the start of the spring season. Using that data, we can predict these shades will also continue to increase to a higher level this year, too.