Fashion

The Best and Worst Trends of 2021

Take a look back at what we wore this year, and whether it was really the best decision...

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@bellahadid

The year is coming to a close, which means it is time for a period of reflection. What did we accomplish this year? What do we wish we could have done better? More importantly, what were our best and worst outfits?

2021 was a year of re-emergence: we went back outdoors, back to the clubs and the office. With that stepping out came the spirit of joyous dressing. Everyone seemed to be putting their best fashion foot forward. Outfits got dressier than normal; a gown to go grocery shopping suddenly seemed not only normal but appropriate. Glitter, sequins, and bold patterns decorated every garment. Raggedy tees and leggings were left behind for the thrill of slacks and leather. In fact, it was almost difficult to decipher what the worst trends of the year were. We all did so good. But, I said almost. Take a look at our roundup of the freshest and most forgettable looks of 2021. 

Best: Y2K Revival

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Clockwise from top left: @dualipa, @oliviarodrigo, @bellahadid

The revival of everything Y2K was the most pervasive trend in 2021. Everything from crop tops and baguette bags to low-rise denim and rhinestones made an appearance. The kitschy aesthetic was a welcome dose of nostalgia and playfullness. 

Worst: Twilight Fashion

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Clockwise from top left: @allmypeachesareruined, "Twilight," @emmabchu

The "Twilight fashion" phase was perhaps the downside to the Y2K revival. While plenty of kids pulled the look off, it offered nothing too exciting. For those unfamiliar, this trend essentially promoted dressing in the style of 2000s film and TV characters. Think Vampire Diaries and Gilmore Girls, bootcut jeans and ribbed cotton tops. 

Best: The Big Pant

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Clockwise from top left: Victoria Beckham Fall/Winter 2021, @deborabrosa, @kendalljenner

2021 officially declared the death of the skinny jean (though is anything in fashion ever really gone forever?). Long live the rise of the big, baggy pant. Pleated slacks and oversized denim were everywhere this year, and what a wonderful repreive from the never-ending reign of skinny jeans. 

Worst: Avant Basic

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Clockwise from top left: @palomawool, @lisasaysgah

This Pinterest-ready trend gave us plenty of cute, exciting pieces, but none stuck around too long. Brevity is in the very nature of avant-basicism, and in 2021, that's not a super sustainable way of dressing. While we appreciate the kookiness of these pieces, it's ultimately better to shop trends with staying power. 

Best: Dark Academia

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Clockwise from top left: @darkacademiaclothes, @emrata, @miss.magdallena

Speaking of Pinterest, dark academia ruled the boards this year. Everyone on the planet seemed to be collectively reaching for their sweater vests and loafers. This cute and cozy aesthetic emphasized the use of closet basics like cardigans and blazers. Cute and practical is trendiness in its best form.

Worst: The Sweatsuit

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Clockwise from top left: @kyliejenner, @drewhouse, @modedamour

Alright, we get it already. The pandemic brought forth a wave of comfy dressing. But, it might be time to say goodbye? The sweatsuit got a fashionable makeover this year in a variety of styles and colors. At the end of the day, though, it's still full-body sweats. Cozy, but ultimately a bit boring.

Best: Corsets

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Clockwise from top left: @kyliejenner, @hoskelsa, @viviennewestwood

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the fashion corset dominated 2021. The lace-up garment almost seemed to be a testament to fashion girls' dedication to stepping up their game. It may be a slightly uncomfortable garment, but by god is it gorgeous. We wouldn't mind seeing this trend stick around a bit longer. 

Worst: Subversive Basics

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Clockwise from top left: @bellahadid, @karolinevitto, Sarah Pan

The subversive basics trend straddled the line; it was both refreshing and a bit over-the-top. The boundary-pushing nature of the trend allowed for some truly breathtaking moments, but how long are you really going to hold on to all the cut up pairs of stockings in your closet? Like most DIY trends, cheap and quick doesn't always lead to quality closet pieces. 

Best: Crochet Everything

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Clockwise from top left: @helenacuesta, @gimme_kaya, @chloesewee

The pandemic-era dedication to at-home crafting brought about a surge of crochet garments this year. This trend didn't stick to the usual fare either. Crochet skirts, jackets, hats, balaclavas, and more coated both the streets and runways. Plus, they are cute enough to keep around for years to come. 

Worst: Futuristic Footwear

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Left to right: @streetfashion01, TheImageDirect.com

Opinions may be divided on this one, but something about these weird Yeezy-looking shoes just doesn't sit right in the stomach. They look like cars that got a matte wrapping. While the futurism is appreciated, it is not wanted. 

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