Spring Trends to Add to Your Wardrobe this Season
By Guest Columnist, Julia Jackson
As spring 2021 rolls around this April, so does a fresh batch of fun, seasonal trends. Trends can easily be incorporated into the workplace and professional setting if done correctly. According to an article by Stanford News, two-thirds of the U.S. workforce is working from home. So what does this have to do with spring trends? As we begin to incorporate them into our wardrobe, it is important to understand their origins and why, as a culture, they resonate with us.
Women
Women's photo source:
https://ullajohnson.com/products/ora-blouse-jade
Color – This spring, we are embracing color and pattern, even in the workplace. Colors include all things pastel (think sorbet tones), and patterns can range from textural stripes to vintage-inspired graphics. This is an effort to bring some fun into those work-from-home outfits that began to become drab in January and February.
Trousers – Another item rising in popularity is statement trousers. This is a trend that can easily be incorporated into your professional wardrobe by pairing them with a structured button-up top. For days in the office, consider a tailored pant in a bright pattern. For days spent working from home, consider a more comfortable statement trouser: the wide-leg, cropped pant.
Volume – Clothing pieces with volume have been in style for many years now. This spring, think statement sleeves and shoulders. This trend can also be incorporated into your wardrobe by adding in oversized pieces. They can be those wide-leg pants or a nice oversized summer knit sweater. Comfort is the goal!
Men
Men's photo source:
https://theimpression.com/auralee-spring-2021-mens-fashion-show/
Color – This spring, bright colors and graphic patterns are a trend that everyone can participate in. Popular patterns for men include bold florals and graphic prints. This can be incorporated into a fully patterned suit if you’re feeling bold. Or include just a pop of pattern with a statement shirt under a neutral suit. In addition to all of the patterns, try incorporating colors like lilac and yellow into your wardrobe this spring if they are appropriate for your skin tone. While it may sound too feminine, these colors are very trendy in menswear. They can still feel masculine, depending on the fit and tailoring of the garment. Including earth-tone neutrals with these fun colors can also ground your look and give it a bit of edge.
Workwear – Utilitarianism has been a trend in fashion for the past few seasons and it is still prevalent this spring. Textiles like canvas and linen are on the rise. These pieces will be slightly oversized and boxy. Again, think about comfort and mobility for the days you work from home. Instead of sporting a full-length canvas jumpsuit, opt for small utilitarian details such as cargo-inspired pockets on your everyday knits and tops.
Denim – In menswear, denim comes and goes. In recent past seasons it was seen as outdated and like something your dad might wear to a family BBQ. However, the denim on trend this season is not your dad’s denim. It has been reworked and reimagined to include patchwork, embroidery, bleaching and even different colors. This trend plays on our culture’s fascination with sustainability, with most people opting for recycled denim that has been given new life.
Ultimately…
Whether you participate in the trends this season by sporting a pair of floral pants or a top with balloon sleeves, make sure you are wearing something that you feel great in! These things can easily be worked into the professional attire you already have in your closet. Picking one or two of these trends to try out can make your wardrobe feel young and fresh again for the new season.
Resources
About the author
Julia Jackson, Student and Intern, Western Michigan University
Fashion Merchandising Major, Event Management Minor
Julia is completing her senior year at Western Michigan University and graduates April 2021. Julia joined the KDI Consulting team in January of 2021.
