Spring
2021
trend report
I have a confession.
As a personal style coach, I’m not all that interested in trends.
Don’t get me wrong. I love browsing the latest runway looks, trendspotting on Pinterest, and window-shopping my favorite stores for the most recent styles.
But I don’t spend time discussing the latest trends with my clients. Instead, I’m all about transcending trends, focusing on your unique, signature style, and sharing timeless principles that apply no matter your dress size, lifestyle, or the season’s “must-haves”.
I used to be a slave to trends and, while it was fun and expensive - - I mean, expressive, it only left me with a closet full of rapidly outdated clothes and a bank account full over overdraft fees. Because yes, it was also expensive!
So why on earth am I handing you a 2021 Spring Trend Report?!
It’s simple. I know you want to look stylish, feel confident, and not be the butt of Gen Z’s jokes for the foreseeable future. (Although personally, I’m sticking with skinny jeans and a solid side part over here, okay?!) If you don’t get that joke, you’ll definitely want to keep reading.
You want to know what’s happening in the world of fashion. And as your designated style guru, I’m here to break it down.
I also know most articles and reports like this merely toss out the latest trends and throw in a few links to product examples you “need to buy now!”
They miss the most important piece. And that’s how to know, with certainty, which trends are right for you, worth your investment, and applicable to your everyday life.
The key to having enviable style is in discerning what works to flatter your figure, personal coloring, personality, and lifestyle. Even though something may be featured here, seen in every storefront window, or flood your Instagram feed, doesn't mean you need to run out and buy your own carbon copy.
So keep reading to find out everything you need to know to step into spring with style… Your style, that is. From built in G-strings (I can’t make this stuff up) to baggy jeans and house slippers, whether you decide to freshen up your wardrobe with a few new pieces or adapt what you already own, this guide will be your pocket translator to what’s current – with a side order of humor and humility, as always.
Let’s dive right in, shall we?
xo,
Heather Riggs
All images sourced from Vogue.com
Body Con
MICRO MINIS
It's gettin' hot in herre! (Anyone else miss early 2000's hip hop?) We're kicking off this 2021 Spring Trend Report with all the va-va-voom designers served up in a seemingly bottomless buffet. The first body conscious style is micro mini skirts! This practically classic cut graced the runways ringing in spring and signaling to everyone that it might be high time to change out of those second day sweatpants. As we hope to regain some normalcy this year, micro minis are a fun, flirty way to step out in style. The only requirement? Confidence to show off those gorgeous gams of yours.
ISABEL MARANT
MIU MIU
it's for you if:
You love a classic, alluring style and calling attention to your sexy stems!
DOLCE & GABBANA
Body Con
CLING ON
Fair warning: If you're not interested in celebrating your beautiful body or spicing things up this season, you might want to jump ahead to the "So Extra" section. Because these body-hugging styles are not for the faint of heart. If you DO want to show off your curves and slip into something ultra-sexy, add a cling on or "second skin" outfit to your spring shopping list! This look is especially flattering on an hourglass figure. But the main ingredient required is confidence. Of course, you'll also need an appropriate occasion to wear it! So if you don't have any date nights on your calendar this season, maybe take a hard pass.
LAQUAN SMITH
SPORTMAX
BRANDON MAXWELL
it's for you if:
You have an hourglass figure and want to amp up your sex appeal!
Body Con
SHEER
This might be one of the most elegant ways to show some skin this season! The feminine style in me loves these delicate, sheer dresses. This trend works for every body type and personal style. All you need to do is find the right color for your complexion, cut for your figure, and level of sheer to suit your taste. From a small touch on a sleeve or bottom hemline of a skirt to a head-to-toe, sheer dress with a body suit underneath, there's an option for everyone! Keep it elegant like these looks above, go sexy with a more revealing style, make it girly with the right color or print, or add drama with a structured silhouette.
CHANEL
FENDI
MAGGIE MARILYN
it's for you if:
You love revealing some skin in a romantic and elegant way!
Body Con
BUILT IN G-STrinGS
I told you, I can't make this up! Arguably the most jaw-dropping spring trend, built in G-strings were all rage on the runways and have already been seen on celebrities like Kim Kardashian (surprise, surprise), Jennifer Lopez, and Hailey Bieber. You definitely need to have a seductive signature style to gravitate toward the G-string look. But believe it or not, there are some subtle options out there! So if you want to try something playful and clearly eye-catching, an intentional whale tail might be the right look for you!
GIVENCHY
MUGLER
DION LEE
it's for you if:
You love a flirty, eye-catching, G-string style - without the wedgie!
Body Con
LOW-RISE
Guess who's back? Back again! (Seriously, I can't stop with these high school era rap references). But it seems fitting since low-rise pants are also making a major comeback right now! Now that I'm a mid-thirties mama, I won't be slipping out of my high-waisted jeans anytime soon. But there is something to be said for the low-rise trend if it suits you! The key factor here is proportion and the common problem with low-rise pants is that they tend to cut the body right in half and widen the appearance of your hips. I love this pant style for women who are on the tall side and have a straight, boyish figure.
NO. 21
VERSACE
BALMAIN
it's for you if:
You love a good 90's throwback and want to widen and highlight your hips!
Body Con
CUT OUTS
If you didn't look at these photos and immediately picture Rachel McAdams in Mean Girls, I'm not sure if we can be friends. (Just kidding! You can always sit with me!) But in all seriousness, the cut-out trend is channeling major Regina George vibes. Before you reach for your scissors, a quick Google search will offer you lots of affordable options for cut out tops, sweaters, and dresses. This trend is really easy to incorporate with any wardrobe, as it can go from daytime to dressy and tasteful to overt. My overall thoughts? This look is so fetch.
CHLOÉ
PRADA
OFF-WHITE
it's for you if:
You love creative and alluring styles (oh, and getting my Mean Girls references is a plus)!
Body Con
BRA TOPS
Just when you thought it couldn't get any sexier, designers went and made bras (as tops) acceptable spring attire! This trend isn't for everyone. But if you're in your 20's, living in an urban area, and looking for an edgy, fashion forward style, a bra top could be your BFF this season. To tone it down, I recommend adding a great jacket over top (see the Hermès look above). You'll clearly need to feel comfortable showing off your chest and waistline as well.
ALBERTA FERRETTI
CHRISTIAN SIRIANO
HERMÈS
it's for you if:
You love your waistline, chest, and looking very fashion forward!
Body Con
NETTING
I'm revealing my biases here, but I could totally see myself hopping on the netting trend this spring. Like so many other themes we've looked at already, netting can go from feminine to dramatic and everything in between. If you want to try this one on, look for a fabric and dress or skirt length that appeal to you most. I could easily picture something sweet and simple like this Alaïa skirt for a fun, leisurely tour around town, Sunday church service, or your next date night. The sky is the limit!
VALENTINO
ALAÏA
DRIES VAN NOTEN
it's for you if:
You love skirts and dresses with unique detailing!
So Extra
WIDE LEG TROUSERS
Wide leg pants crowded out skinny styles in a big way this season and the style-conscious are hopping right on board. The good news is that wide leg pants are flattering for every body type, even petite sizes. They work to elongate the legs and draw the eye to the narrowest part of your waistline, especially when topped with a waist-cinching belt (just like the Louis Vuitton pairing above). For the most balanced look, I recommend keeping your top fitted and either tucked in or slightly cropped.
it's for you if:
You want to lengthen your legs and emphasize your narrow waistline!
LOUIS VUITTON
PROENZA SCHOULER
NAEEM KHAN
So Extra
BALLOON SLEEVES
If you were curious, this is my favorite spring 2021 trend! And I'll tell you why. For women with narrow shoulders, like me, this is the perfect way to balance out your upper body. If you share my affinity for all things feminine, even better! This dramatically romantic style is sure to turn heads. But as with most of the trends we've covered so far, there are many downplayed options out there for your shopping pleasure.
it's for you if:
You have narrow shoulders and love a dramatic, yet feminine style!
PHILOSOPHY DI LORENZO SERAFINI
ULLA JOHNSON
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
So Extra
OVERSIZED BIZ
If you're not working from home with business on the top, pajamas on the bottom, this trend might be a solid contender for your spring budget. Please recognize, however, that oversized clothing walks a very fine line between stylish and sloppy. If you're going to step into a menswear-inspired suit, make sure it's the best quality fabric you can afford and impeccably tailored. In order to avoid getting lost in your look, you'll want to reveal at least 2 of your "skinny bits" (as coined by my mentor, Lynne Marks): your wrists, collarbone, waistline, or ankles. And yes, all women have these skinny bits, no matter your size!
it's for you if:
You have a need for formal business attire and love elegant, menswear inspired looks!
THE ROW
STELLA MCCARTNEY
MAX MARA
So Extra
BAGGY JEANS
Despite what you might think, Gen Z didn't start this trend. But they may have been among the first to adopt it. I personally won't be parting with my skinny jeans but I'm contemplating loosening things up this spring for a little fun! Regarding this trend, I'll echo what I said about wide leg trousers and oversized biz above. For the most balanced looks, pair your jeans with a fitted, cropped or tucked top and an open jacket (optional). Remember, your style will be enviable when it reflects who you are and brings out your best, so don't feel pressured to conform to wide leg jeans if they just aren't your thing!
it's for you if:
You love adopting the latest styles and lengthening your legs!
CHANEL
CELINE
ETRO
So Extra
PANT LAYERING
The pant layering trend is über chic, although I'm not sure how practical. If you're a toddler mom like me, we don't need any more obstacles to chasing after our little ones, do we? But for a night on the town or a trend loving fashionista, this style might be the easiest to shop within your own closet. All you need is a pair of trousers and a long, stretchy or flowing dress and you can call it a day! Top your look with a blazer to keep the layers going and make this office ready.
it's for you if:
You love chic, layered looks and are often cold at the office!
JIL SANDER
PETER DO
OFF-WHITE
So Extra
STATEMENT COLLARS
Another equal parts feminine and dramatic trend, statement collars are a simple wardrobe addition. You can even score detachable collars that you can mix and match with all different pieces in your closet! To tone down the drama, pair a statement collar with subtle to no jewelry and let it take center stage. Or for an all-out "notice me!" vibe, repeat the lines and shapes with coordinating statement earrings. Patou and Andrew Gn did this beautifully! For a harmonious rather than overwhelming appearance, choose a collar that suits your overall frame and mimics the curvature of your facial features.
it's for you if:
You love a feminine and dramatic style that frames and features your face!
PATOU
ANDREW GN
ROKH
So Extra
FEATHERS
Is it just me or do these dreamy dresses make you feel like you stepped into a fairytale? On one hand, these feathery pants and frocks are extremely impractical. But if you love this concept, it's easy enough to find a delicate feathered skirt or top perfect for your next in-person or virtual bridal shower! After being largely cooped up this past year, I understand why designers were ready to let their imaginations soar. Here's hoping we all have reason to celebrate with a more romanticized looks like this in 2021.
it's for you if:
You love romantic, ethereal (albeit impractical) vibes!
MARCHESA
ELIE SAAB
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
So Extra
FLOWER POWER
If you know me, you know I love movies (and quoting them often). So in my best Meryl Streep in the Devil Wears Prada impression, "Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking." And to her character's credit, this may not seem like such a leap in ingenuity. But the boldness of this season's floral prints is most certainly mentionable. Giant, head-to-toe petals in saturated hues were spotted on many a runway. If you choose to stop and smell the roses this season, I suggest you stick with your best colors and pick a print size in proportion to your overall stature and features. We don't want to lose you in the weeds!
it's for you if:
You love floral prints, bold colors, and a dramatic style!
ISABEL MARANT
ISSEY MIYAKE
VALENTINO
Noteworthy
REIMAGINED TRENCH
Finally, something for my classic style lovers - sort of. If you're in need of a new topper this season and you love a classic look, definitely consider a reimagined trench! Your predictable wardrobe staple got a major upgrade this season. If you want to step out of your comfort zone and slip into something a bit more eye-catching, jot this trend down. It can work for you if you have a classic style with a creative or dramatic twist, with any body type, and budget.
it's for you if:
You love classic styles with a twist!
BURBERRY
MONSE
PACO RABANNE
Noteworthy
ELEVATED SWEATS
If you're not sick of your sweats, you may want to invest in an elevated style this season. While comfort dressing may be the last thing you think about, I encourage my clients to feel confident about everything they own - from undergarments to cocktail dresses and even loungewear. You deserve the very best. That doesn't necessarily mean you need to spend a fortune. Simply work toward curating a closet made up of your best colors, silhouettes, fabrics, and styles. If you enjoy a relaxed, cozy look (and who doesn't?) that you can wear both in and out of the house, it's time to go shopping for a stylish sweatsuit.
it's for you if:
You love loungewear that still looks cool. (Bonus: You can wear this out of the house!)
BRANDON MAXWELL
RODARTE
MAX MARA
Noteworthy
Vibrant PRINTS
Kitschy, head-to-toe prints were some of the most prominent prowlers on the spring 2021 catwalks. Designers used bold stripes, geometric patterns, and had fun mixing and matching in unexpected, often retro ways. While you might think, at first glance, that these looks are too busy for you, there are an endless variety of ways to work pattern into your wardrobe this season. Use common sense (like remembering horizontal stripes will widen your appearance) and choose prints that flatter both the curvature or angularity of your features as well as your overall taste and style.
it's for you if:
You love a creative or dramatic style, standing out, and doing the unexpected!
CHRISTOPHER JOHN ROGERS
RAF SIMONS
DOLCE & GABBANA
Noteworthy
BASIC MAXI DRESSES
Calling all classic and elegant style aficionados: This trend has your name written all over it! If you were starting to worry that none of this season's trends were going to work for you or fit into your life, this is your cue to take a nice, deep breath. There's nothing more timeless, yet trending, this spring than a basic maxi dress. Whether curve-hugging or light and airy, any dress lover can find a fabric and fit to suit your personal style. Neutral colors are a safe closet staple. Or you can opt for a maxi in one of this season's "it" colors to kick it up a notch. Your choices are endless!
it's for you if:
You love a comfortable dress in a familiar, yet on-trend style!
GABRIELA HEARST
MICHAEL KORS
SIMON MILLER
Noteworthy
WRAP SKIRTS
There's nothing like a good wrap skirt in my book. This is another timeless style that's currently trending. I love encouraging my clients to invest in pieces that not only work today but will still be reached for often in the years to come. A figure-flattering wrap skirt is one of those! This style looks great on every body type as it emphasizes the waistline and creates a stunning hourglass effect. If you're not a pants only person and you don't mind showing a little leg (or ankle), a wrap skirt is worth your consideration!
it's for you if:
You love a classic, elegant style and figure-flattering skirts!
COPERNI
MARNI
MIU MIU
Noteworthy
LEATHER
Fluid, leather fabrics ruled the runways this season and, personally, I am here for it! In fact, I'm currently on the hunt for an elegant, leather wrap skirt. Atypical for the warmer months, paired with an ultra-feminine top (à la Lanvin's look), in a breezy cut (see Altuzarra), or just a touch (like Isabel Marant's peplum corset top) brings a welcome edge to your spring style. The most important factors to consider when contemplating pieces like this are your personal style and body type. If you have a smaller frame, you can get away with more structured pieces, while curvier types look best in a fluid drape.
it's for you if:
You love adding edgy, unexpected elements to your style!
LANVIN
ALTUZARRA
ISABEL MARANT
"It" Colors
BUBBLE GUM PINK
Not to burst your bubble (see what I did there?), but this is the #1 most talked about color for spring 2021! I find most people either love or hate "tickle me pink". So I probably don't need to do a lot of deterring or persuading here. As you can see from the runway looks above, it's perfectly acceptable to add a small pop of pink in your accessories or go full on monochromatic watermelon. This is one of those hues that can easily overpower so I recommend finding the best color pink for you and playing around with the dosage. I really like this option for women with dark and high contrast coloring like the models above.
it's for you if:
You love PINK and want to channel your inner Legally Blonde!
(sorry, not sorry about another movie reference)
FENDI
ALICE + OLIVIA
BALMAIN
"It" Colors
TENNIS BALL GREEN
This neon trend was huge on the runways and has already made a big splash in stores. Just keep in mind, bright tones can be more difficult to pull off. This colorful trend is best suited to those looking to project a more dramatic or creative style and personality. Even the tiniest touch of neon green will take your look from basic to bold, so be prepared to get the attention this eye-catching trend deserves. To take a more feminine or dainty approach, look for wispy, ruffled, or crocheted pieces. And to dip your toe in the water, opt for a small tennis ball green accent like a saturated sandal, tinted sunglasses, or a bold belt instead.
it's for you if:
You love neon, "notice me!" colors and have a neutral to warm complexion!
CINQ À SEPT
DRIES VAN NOTEN
VALENTINO
"It" Colors
TANGERINE
Vibrant tangerine definitely heated up the runways this season. I'd venture to guess you don't have much of this hue in your wardrobe currently. So I know the question you're wondering now - is this color right for me? I'd recommend a head-to-toe, saturated citrus like this for those with an equally warm, peachy or bronze complexion just like the models pictured above. If you love this bright pop of color but aren't sure it would love you back, why not add just a touch here or there in a great accent shoe or handbag?
it's for you if:
You love bold colors and have a peachy or golden complexion!
JASON WU
ISSEY MIYAKE
VERSACE
"It" Colors
WHITE OUT
White is a seriously sought out color for spring after its glaring popularity on the runways. A quintessential classic, white is incredibly versatile in that it can be dressed up or down depending on the fabric and styling. Not to mention that it pairs well with absolutely everything. My best advice when choosing your all white ensemble is not to go any brighter or whiter than the whites of your teeth and eyes. (Trust me on this one.) There are so many ways to wear this trend, from dressy to casual and everywhere in between. Don't order spaghetti or red wine, but otherwise have some fun with it!
it's for you if:
You love a chic, monochromatic look...
and don't have a toddler with sticky PB&J fingers lurking around!
ALBERTA FERRETTI
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
CHRISTIAN SIRIANO
"It" Colors
PASTELS
Here's the good news about one of the most desired color families this season: pastels work on absolutely everyone. That said, you still need to consider which specific hues are best for you. Here are a few noteworthy considerations. If you look best in warm colors, you might try pastels that are on the warmer side (I know, shocker!). Think peach, champagne, and celery. If you err on the cooler side, opt for blush, mint, and lavender. I think it goes without saying that you want to make sure your pastels don't wash you out. If you feel self-conscious about this, try pastels on your lower half paired with a darker top.
it's for you if:
You love a feminine style and want to give off a sweet, delicate vibe!
TEMPERLEY LONDON
GIORGIO ARMANI
PROENZA SCHOULER
Shoes
STRAPPY STOCKINGS
It's time to throw all the fashion rules out the window. Wearing stockings with sandals is now not only approved, but encouraged! You'll probably get some double takes with this trend, but if you enjoy shattering stigmas and pushing the envelope, you can have a lot of fun with this one! Feel free to experiment with stocking heights and statement colors. The only thing I didn't notice on the runway was your everyday nude hose. So if you're going to step out in strappy stockings, go big or go home!
it's for you if:
You love a quirky style, breaking the rules, and having fun with fashion!
SPORTMAX
ACNE STUDIOS
GIVENCHY
Shoes
HOUSE SLIPPERS
Whether you dare to leave home in your house slippers or not, after the year we've had, I think we could all benefit from a stylishly cozy pair for our piggies! I'll be honest, I tried slipping into a version from J.Crew this past fall and felt a little ridiculous. But if you crave comfort and glamour, you might be a better match for these than me. According to the runways, the thicker and fluffier the better! I recommend choosing a color that compliments most of your clothes and designate whether they'll be for indoor or outdoor use.
it's for you if:
You love equal parts comfort and glamour!
BALENCIAGA
CELINE
MOLLY GODDARD
Shoes
VELCRO
Velcro shoes aren't just for toddlers anymore! These sporty sandals are perfect for spring and summer if you value comfort and ease with a dash of decoration. You can go as simplistic or stylized as you like. As I've hinted earlier, enviable style is all about working with your personal features and preferences. If you have a small build or delicate style, opt for a more streamlined and simplistic velcro design. If you have a curvier body or a dramatic style, try a version with more weight and embellishment. With everything you choose this season, make sure it compliments you and brings out your best!
it's for you if:
You're looking for a new pair of comfortable, yet styled up spring/summer sandals!
JASON WU
ANNA SUI
BOSS
Shoes
FLATFORMS
We're going to be seeing flatforms everywhere this season. So if you want to hop on a crowd-pleasing trend, consider this one of your best bets. Flatforms are ideal if you're looking for a boost in height without the hazards of heels. This shoe style ranges from everyday to evening out depending on the fabric and styling. I could see myself slipping a casual version like Altuzarra's on for a picnic in the park or an al fresco dinner with family. They get extra points in my book for working well with shorts, skirts, pants, and dresses alike. Again, just keep in mind your overall stature and don't let your shoes wear you.
it's for you if:
You love extra height without the pain and impracticality of heels!
ALTUZARRA
ERDEM
ANDREA POMPILIO
Shoes
CLOGS
What's old is new again! Clogs have been making a comeback for a little while now but this season is embracing them wholeheartedly. This Hermès pair (above center) is the talk of fashionistas everywhere. So if you're in the mood for a comfortable slip-on with a retro flair, a new (or old) pair of clogs might be just the ticket for you this spring. If you haven't sensed the recurring theme, chunky and clunky soles are in. Petites, I'd tread lightly with these trends so you don't overwhelm or weigh down your look.
it's for you if:
You love a comfortable, retro, slip-on shoe!
BOTTEGA VENETA
HERMÈS
RACHEL COMEY
Accessories
SPORTY SUNGLASSES
If you're in the market for new shades this season, sporty sunglasses are the most of-the-moment frames you can find. Brightly colored lenses and rectangular angles feel very timely in our athleisure-inspired culture. From high glam to quirky, you can find a range of styles to suit your taste. My best advice is to invest in a color palette that compliments your personal coloring and coordinates with a majority of your clothes to get the biggest bang for your buck. If you have defined, angular facial features, rectangular shapes are great. More delicate faces should look for smaller, slightly rounded pairs instead.
it's for you if:
You love a sporty style and colorful accessories!
DRIES VAN NOTEN
MIU MIU
BURBERRY
Accessories
BELTED WAIST
I've missed the belted waist look! How about you? There's something about creating or defining an hourglass figure that feels so feminine and chic. There are endless options and you might even have what you need in your closet to duplicate these outfits! I love that you can add a belt to almost any ensemble, whether a blazer, top and skirt, or dress as seen in these designer looks. Whether coordinating or contrasting, use this trend to accentuate the narrowest part of your waist and watch mouths drop in your wake.
it's for you if:
You love accessorizing and accentuating your waistline!
CAROLINA HERRERA
ALAÏA
JOHANNA ORTIZ
Accessories
LONG NECKLACES
Dainty, collarbone grazing necklaces have been in for so long, it's really nice to see a change of pace this season. I'm always down for a long, layered necklace look. And if you enjoy wearing necklaces, this style is flattering on everyone. A quick tip to find your perfect long necklace length is to measure the height of your face from the top of your head to your chin. Then measure that length from your chin down to where it lands on your chest. For the most balanced and flattering look, that's where your long necklaces should fall. If you want to go even longer, simply double the measurement from your chin!
it's for you if:
You love wearing necklaces and layering jewelry!
VICTORIA BECKHAM
SAINT LAURENT
TORY BURCH
Accessories
RECTANGLE BAGS
Slim, rectangle bags are the final 2021 spring trend I'll be covering! For busy moms on the go, this probably isn't the most practical option for you. But if you ever want to lighten your load to, say, a piece of paper and a cellphone, consider picking up one of these cute little arm candies. I recommend this sleek style for anyone who has an elegant or dramatic look and doesn't carry around a lot of baggage. (Literally.)
it's for you if:
You love fashionable, not highly functional, handbags!
JIL SANDER
FENDI
GIVENCHY
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