AOIFE MCGUIGAN

Lockdown has given me unlimited browsing time on runway fashion so I have delved into this years SS/AW shows and have picked up on a few recurring trends. In today’s blog post I’ll be showcasing my favourite pieces from a variety of great designers as well as discussing the trends that are coming up in 2021.

NEONS

Designers have featured an abundance of neon within their 2021 seasonal runway shows. These pops of colour are frequently styled alongside darker palettes of greys and browns as well as acting as a blockout for lighter pastel shades. Neons have come in and out of fashion over the years but their presence is particularly welcome during the upcoming seasons as the dullness of the current pandemic has given us an excuse to embrace vibrancy within our wardrobe.

Depending on personal preference and what you already have in your wardrobe, there are lots ways to style neon pieces. Between day wear and night wear to formal and casual; hues of neon can add a liveliness to your outfit and allows you to subtly or boldly embrace it. For those who are anxious when it comes to wearing such a vibrant colour, the best approach would be to select small neon accessories from bags to jewellery, to be paired alongside neutral or darker outfits. However, if you are the complete opposite and want to go all out, a monochrome neon look is most definitely for you!

Best neon buys linked here.

PUFF & BALLOON SLEEVES

Puff & balloon sleeves are going absolutely nowhere! This trend has gotten bigger (literally) and I am fully here for it! Extra volume in your sleeves is a must have especially as the summer months roll in. From the Simonetta Ravizza look of layering with a puff sleeve shirt, to the elegance of the McQueen balloon sleeve dress; these designers have mastered the trend perfectly.

Puff and balloon sleeve has been featured prominently throughout SS21 & AW21 shows and collections. Coming in a range of sizes, volumes and lengths, they are the perfect staple to have in your wardrobe due to their versatility.

Best puff/balloon sleeve buys linked here.

TRENCH COATS

The all important trench is another absolute staple for any wardrobe! Without fail the trench coat will crop up during spring and autumn seasons and is always considered a timeless piece of clothing. Over time the trench has been adapted and altered in appearance to fit into a specific theme, while still maintaining its key characteristics. Throughout designer collections it is presented in different forms ranging from fabric to colour as well as its cut and shape. This means that more variations of the coat are seen as different designers create their own, personalised version.

However, the classic beige and tan full length trench coats are still on trend and in my opinion go with absolutely everything from joggers and trainers to a slip dress and strappy heels.

Best trench buys linked here.

NOSTALGIC PRINTS

This upcoming year in fashion sees us pay homage to prints that came before. From psychedelic hues to groovy bold prints there is a strong sense of 1960/70’s inspired aesthetic which is showcased by many designers throughout their AW21 collections. The hints of oranges, yellows and browns as well as the satin and leather elements shown in the pieces gives us a sense of nostalgia and allows us to embrace a different era.

These prints have come full circle and I expect they will be fully in demand as the year goes on. In terms of brands that have successfully incorporated this aesthetic; House of Sunny comes to mind. This brand celebrates all things colour, unique imagery as well as quirky and exciting prints which I feel is more than necessary during 2021.

House of Sunny have just released their AW21 womenswear collection, featuring absolutely stunning pieces, all of which are now available to preorder on their site.

More nostalgic buys linked here.

These are just some of the trends I have selected from this years seasonal shows and collection releases, all of which will allow us to fully get the most out of what we wear, especially this year. So enjoy finding ways to experiment with these trends as and when you like!