Spring 2021 Fashion Trends to Keep On Your Radar This Season

By Courtney Leiva | January 20, 2021

Feature Image by Madewell

Now that 2020 is finally behind us (phew!), you may be eager to leave the tie-dye tracksuits behind, and get a headstart on your spring style game.

While the loungewear trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, rest assured that spring 2021 fashion trends are definitely on the exciting side, as celebrity stylist Samantha Brown tells FabFitFun that retro vibes (think collared knits and big denim jeans) are on tap for spring. Though if you are a Bridgerton fan (we’re obsessed), not to worry! Brown says there are plenty of styles inspired by the Netflix series as well.

From exaggerated shoulders to sustainable finds, Brown shares six fashion trends sure to make a splash this spring

Collared Knits

Since retro styles are big on the spring style forecast this year, Brown suggests bringing some timeless staples into your wardrobe. These include collared knits (polo shirt-style buttons or a zip front), which she says can be styled with slouchy jeans and comfy skirts. “This is an easy trend to pull off, just swap your crew necks and tees for a knit with a collar,” Brown advises.

Madewell Women’s Cashmere Polo Cardigan Sweater $95

Polos don’t have to be boring, as this cashmere top boasts a bold peachy color that will definitely help any outfit stand out.

Forever21 Sweater-Knit Polo Shirt $17.99

Bring on the preppy vibes with this basic collared knit top, which can be worn on its own, or underneath a jacket or oversized hoodie during those chilly spring mornings.

Big Jeans

While skinny jeans might be your denim go-to, Brown says that the denim silhouettes of spring 2021 are slouchy and oversized. To pull off this type of denim with ease, she advises pairing them with a fitted turtleneck, or with a crop top and your favorite blazer.

Old Navy Extra-High-Waisted Wide-Leg Jeans $39.99

Thanks to its wide-leg, trust that these high-waisted jeans bring a vintage flair to basic tops, tees, and blouses in a cinch.

DL1961 Women’s Hepburn Wide Leg Jeans $198 -$209

This pair of wide-leg jeans are perfect for those who prefer edgier denim styles, as the dramatic, destructed appearance plays well with leather jackets and puff-sleeve tops.

Exaggerated Shoulders

“The emphasis this season is definitely on an exaggerated shoulder,” Brown suggests. “Make the trend your own by trying tops, dresses, and sweatshirts with a puff shoulder, or by going bold with a jacket that has a wide shoulder-line and padding.”

Alamour The Label Dress Amory Dress $169.95

Channel romance and elegance through this puff sleeve sundress, which looks just as great with flats and wedges as it does with heels.

Hutch Design Bianca Top $167

This gorgeous teal velvet top boasts both exaggerated shoulders and a chic bow waist detail to boot.

Fancy Embellishment

With the recent success of Bridgerton, Brown says opulent clothing will become even more prevalent this spring. “Sparkle, embroidery, and glitz will definitely make an appearance in our wardrobes,” she explains. “Since it’s unlikely that any of us are attending an actual ball, feel free to style your sparkly items with more casual textures like denim.”

Monarch Floral Jacquard Midi Dress $148

Look like a modern lady of the court with some help from this stunning floral number, which features short puff romantic sleeves, and a front slit to keep your onlookers guessing.

ModCloth Era By ModCloth Be Brocade, Be Very Brocade A-Line Dress $89

Thanks to a breathtaking metallic fabric and gold geometric patterns, expect this party dress to simply dazzle whenever (or wherever) you wear it.

The Spring Trench

“Trenches are huge for the season, especially as we lighten up our outerwear,” Brown says. “Try layering your trench over the season’s sweatsuits, or wear it on its own with a great pair of boots.”

Theory Moto Trench Coat $149.99

This timeless trench is a gift that keeps on giving, as it can be worn with any kind of outfit (dressy or casual), and remain as a staple in your closet for years and years to come.

Uniqlo Women Oversized Trench Coat $79.90

While this oversized trench helps any springtime outfit pop, it also can come to your aid during the fall once the temperatures start to dip.

Sustainable Fashion

2021 also brings about a newfound priority placed on sustainability, particularly when it comes to consumer habits and fashion, Brown says. Because of this, she predicts that shoppers will begin to purchase more sustainable pieces from retailers that use recycled fabrics and materials. “Shoppers are looking for transparency from companies, and will undoubtedly prioritize buying from companies with sustainable practices,” she tells FabFitFun.

époque évolution The One Crop Top $68

While it may look just like another crop top, this sustainable piece (made from 100 percent regenerated nylon fiber) offers built-in sun protection of SPF 50 to those who wear it.