Fashion will never be the defining aspect of this year, but the trends that were definitely capture the zeitgeist of lockdown, an unprecedented period in history that we’re all ready to move on from. In that sense, this moment finds brands and shoppers alike at a crossroads: When we finally emerge from the pandemic, will we return to our seasonal, trend-based shopping habits? Or are we collectively move on to pieces that offer practical longevity and spiritual fulfilment?
While we dream of safely having places to go and people to see, here’s a look at the trends we wore this year and what we hope to wear in 2021. May we never be confined to our sweatpants for weeks on end again.
2020 trend to leave behind: Sweatpants
The sweatpant was without a doubt the fashion hero of 2020: a comfy-cozy sensation evangelized in an August New York Times story called “Sweatpants Forever.” And with most social interaction relegated to Zoom this year, was there any reason to pull it together from the waist down? Try taking baby steps back to real pants with some loose-fit jeans.
2020 trend to leave behind: Leggings
Consider leggings the bar top to sweatpants’ baggy tee. Figure-flattering while still being comfortable, the athleisure staple was more popular than ever, as evidenced by legging purveyor Lululemon’s share price hitting an all-time high in June. Next year, we’re hoping to leave our leggings where they belong: in our gym bags.
