Fall 2021 Trend Report

Camille Colpoys '23 ~ October 2021

The leaves are falling. Gone are the days of swimsuits and tank tops. As a chill creeps into the air, we turn to warmer clothing and lots of layers. This year’s look reflects a rebirth of color amidst the bold TikTok microtrends of the pandemic and beyond. We have turned to bright colors and patterns, and fall is no exception. With warm browns, oranges, and reds, achieving the influencer look in the bitter cold is more attainable than one would suspect.

Trench Coats

They will always be a classic, but trench coats have made a striking comeback in a variety of hues, fabrics, and prints. Especially popular is their application to casual wear, paired with the beloved tennis shoe and sweatshirt set. Additionally, the combination of a simple pant and sweater pairing with the trenches’ air of messiness creates an effortless look that is sure to grace the streets of London to New York City.

Patterned Tights

Reflective of the rise of bolder fashion choices arising from the isolation of the pandemic, tights pack a punch in the best way. In fact, the more outrageous the better. Opt for bright colors to juxtapose the heavy dark silhouettes of fall and winter. Though microtrends like these lack sustainability, patterned tights are a cheap and easy way to bring a sense of whim to your everyday basics. Likewise, classic neutral colors allow for a trendy touch that will remain a staple for years to come.

Leather Jackets

Leather jackets have the internet in a chokehold. Their prevalence in thrift shops and reseller sites brings a sense of sustainability to your wardrobe amidst the influx of influencer microtrends that come and go. Like many other autumn trends this year, the leather jacket is the ultimate staple. Paired with a chic slip dress or jeans and a tee, it offers practicality and versatility to any style. For added warmth, pair with a button-up underneath for added depth and layers.

Loafers

Loafers are your new best friend. Providing style and comfort, they are applicable to a wide variety of tastes— seen in chunky platform styles for a bolder look, or classic tones for a more academic take. Loafers provide the formality of a basic flat or pump with just enough detail for added depth. Another versatile trend this year, pair with casual or formal silhouettes to elevate a timeless look.

Sweater Vests

Present in the renaissance of color this spring, sweater vests are here to stay. Paired with the ever-popular skirt and basic button-up, they add depth and layers to any outfit, providing warmth and style in a wide variety of colors and textures. Best of all, they’re everywhere. Easy to find in the men’s sweater section at thrift stores, they are an easily-adaptable fall essential.

Overall, this year's trends are a manifestation of teenage political activity on social media. Favoring versatile staples that can easily pair with one another and opting for shopping at thrift stores or reseller sites like Depop reflects an overall trend in sustainability. Though proactive against the exorbitant waste of the fashion industry, it is important to ensure that sustainability does not become a microtrend itself.

Title Photo: Elizabeth Dodman