35+ Must-Have 2021 Fashion Trends

This is your ultimate, all-you-need-to-know guide for 2021 fashion trends.

We have scouted out the most affordable and budget-friendly options we can find, so you can try them out for yourself!

{RELATED POST: The 15 Cutest Spring Trends to Wear Right Now}

1. Shoulder Pads

Boyfriend jackets with big, structured shoulders are one of this year’s hottest trends.

Try picking oversized blazers with shoulder pads for that 80’s inspired look.

2. Head Scarves

Head scarves are the perfect 2021 trend, as they are both fashion-forward and practical. Who wants flyaways in their face constantly?

Soft, silky versions will be everywhere this spring. We particularly love floral and paisley patterns.

3. Black Face Masks

Black face masks are the perfect way to protect yourself in style. They are sleek, simple, and will match all your outfits!

Face masks of all varieties are definitely going to be a closet staple, probably for months to come.

Related post: Face Mask Makeup: Our Top Tips for What to Wear Under Your Face Mask

4. Pastel Tones

Sorbet colors and soft tones will be seen everywhere by spring.

We love pastels in unexpected pieces; think blazers or boots. From baby blue shades to buttery yellow, if it’s pastel, it’s a YES!

5. Yellow Purses

Yellow bags are in as one of 2021’s leading fashion trends. Pantone set the bar when they announced Illuminating as one of their Color of the Year.

Make a statement with these bright yellow hues. You can always find interesting shapes and textures as well, like snakeskin!

6. White Knee-High Boots

Take it back to the 60’s with these go-go inspired boots!

White knee-high boots are chic, sleek, and will certainly elevate your style.

7. Blue Accessories

While many of us think of red or pink as a “pop” color, it’s time to try out royal blue.

Whether it’s earrings, a bag, or a hat, these shades of blue are the go-to way to make a statement this year.

8. Fringe Handbags

Bring back some 70’s bohemian vibes with these fringe-lined statement bags.

If fringe is a bit much for your taste, you can always opt for tastefully placed tassels instead.

9. Square Toe Booties

Square-toe booties are the perfect shoe to take day-to-night. They’re conservative enough to wear to even the most stuffy of jobs, but entirely on-trend for when you hit the town after work.

10. White Sneakers

White sneakers have been one of my favorite fashion trends to continue into 2021.

Give yourself some height with these chunky and platform staple sneakers.

13. Oversized Button Downs

This trend is “borrowed from the boys” with its large silhouette.

The update on oversized button downs this year is that you’ll be able to find them in a variety of silky fabrics.

14. Trench Coats 2.0

Trench coats have always been a classic. As a 2021 fashion trend, there are some updates to the color scheme and fabrics.

We’re seeing trenches in unique fabrics like suede and leather, or with dramatic lapels or statement details.

15. Big Pants

Baggy and oversized pants are so in. The bonus is that they’re extremely comfortable, too!

Find your favorite pair of oversized jeans or trousers and your closet will instantly be more on-trend.

16. Tan Pants

Tan pants are going to be a neutral staple trend for your 2021 fashion game. From cargo pants to corduroys, stores will be full of pants in light shades of khaki.

17. Floral Dresses

Florals are back in, and it’s about time! I think we have Taylor Swift and Folklore to thank for this one.

From maxis to minis, pink to neutrals, we are totally here for cottage chic.

18. Feather Trim

Feather trims are a total throwback, and we can’t get enough of them.

Floral trim can be found on tanks, jackets, and dresses. They instantly give any garment a fun and spunky feel.

19. White Before Memorial Day

Break all the rules by wearing white before Memorial Day.

Try out some mom jeans or exciting jackets to achieve that ultra-clean and bold look. You’ll stand out on campus!

20. Wide Leg Trousers

One of 2021’s fashion trends we can’t get enough of is the wide leg trouser. Find a pair in tan and you’re killing multiple trend birds with one stone, so to speak.

Opt for a high-waisted style in plaid for that ultimate 1970s vibe.

21. Pearls Are Back

Obviously pearls are a classic, but sometimes their popularity rises or wanes. For 2021, pearls are absolutely a fashion-forward trend!

We love the romanticism and girly vibe of a pearl necklace or hoop earrings.

22. Fashion Windbreakers

Windbreakers are not just for fitness or rainy days anymore!

Grab some ’80s inspiration with these pastel colors and sporty vibes. Throw one over a cute tank with some joggers for an effortless look.

23. Patchwork

This trend definitely gives us vintage vibes. Patchwork jeans and jackets are simply edgy and cute.

The combination of different shades of denim-on-denim is one of the coolest ways to rock this style.

24. Statement Glasses

Whether you need glasses or not, the look of oversized frames for fashion purposes is bold and so chic.

Also, with more and more college classes being virtual, blue light specs are more important than ever for eye protection.

25. Cutout Details

Cutout details in your tops or dresses is a flirty way to spice up your outfit.

This 2021 fashion trend can be as basic or as bold as you like!

26. Leggings As Pants

Leggings are the new pants! This isn’t new, but 2021 brings updates to our favorite wardrobe staple.

Slit cutouts and flare details are going to be the new norm when it comes to leggings this year.

27. Plaid Miniskirts

Plaid mini skirts have always been one of our favorites to style!

Try a pleated version in neutral tones for that perfect 90’s look.

28. Nostalgic Brands

This trend really takes us back to our childhoods!

90’s and early 2000’s brands are coming back. From old school Guess tees to our favorite cartoons, you can find all your nostalgic faves in in crew neck sweatshirts and oversized tees.

29. Sheer Fabric

Mesh and sheer accents are a fun fashion trend for 2021.

Try reaching for sheer fabrics in socks, dresses, tops, and so much more.

30. Bustier Inspiration

Corsets and bustier inspired tops are becoming very popular.

From lace-up details to structured boning, these little details make a giant impact.

31. Military Jacket Revamped

Military jackets are being reimagined in 2021.

From intricate detailing to faux leather fabrics, these updates are breathing life back into military jackets.

32. Reverse Stitch

Reverse, contrast stitching has become very popular as a fashion trend in 2021.

This “unfinished” look is edgy and cool, and we could easily see it making its way into our wardrobes for good.

33. Structured Purses

This structured purse trend features a square design with a hard exterior, crossbody design, and mini handles.

They come in super cute colors, like green and burgundy, as well as trendy materials, like snakeskin and patent.

34. Matching Face Masks

Protect yourself and others in style with a matching mask set!

We are seeing more and more stores selling masks that match other accessories like scrunchies, or even full athleisure sets with masks in the same fabric!

35. Luxe Leather

Luxe leather is now being spotted in unexpected places, like jogger pants and blazers.

It is a fun new take on a classic that is chic and sleek.

36. Bold Red

Red is back and bolder than ever. Roll with the shade that inspires adventure and passion.

Make sure to pair it with neutrals to balance the color out.

37. Knits in Spring

Knits are not just for the wintertime. Ribbed knits featured in dresses, tanks, vests, and more are a delightful fashion trend for spring 2021.

Pick out a piece in a soft pastel color or clean neutral.