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Here’s what I’ve learned from a lifetime of fashion reporting: Trends come and go, but certain pieces are forever. Fall 2021 fashion trends, presented at mostly virtual collections as COVID vaccinations were made available around the world, are about these timeless, spirited pieces that encourage dressing up, going out, and feeling joy. And for us shopaholics, there is no greater joy than walking into our favorite stores and feeling the rush of a new collection on the shelves.
The vibrancy of fall’s best pieces, like Prada’s patterned bodysuit, Alexander McQueen’s blooming biker jacket, and Versace’s itty-bitty minis, have a worldwide appeal, too, as evidenced by Vogue’s first global spread. That means your new Wales Bonner knit dress and Celine shearling jacket will look as good from Paris to Shanghai to New York. If that’s not reason enough to invest in a happy new wardrobe, what is?!
Below, Vogue’s ultimate guide to the fall 2021 fashion trends.
Try A Sweater That Makes You Smile
Yes, classic neutral knits are essential, but as Raf Simons, Miu Miu, and Loewe prove: The brighter the color, the better the sweater. Victor Glemaud, a knitwear expert, has even injected his with clever color-blocking and a retro collar to make wintry days all the brighter.
Bloom Even After Dark
Florals aren’t just for spring, OK? Rich and moody blossoms from Marni and Dries Van Noten call for a windswept autumn day, their crimson colors playing off the leaves. Like any good floral arrangement, this one is perfected by a little clash: Try this Dolce & Gabbana bralettes with groovy Adam Lippes pants.
Pantsuits? As If!
Clueless heroine Cher Horowitz would fit right into our fall fashion trend report. Plaid miniskirt suits like Cher’s infamous yellow number appeared in dozens of collections and are hitting stores just as back-to-school frenzy mounts. Designers like Charles Jeffrey Loverboy give the style a punky spin while Self-Portrait and Alessandra Rich are making plaid pretty.
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Reskin Your Loungewear
After 2020, sweatpants are definitely out. Instead, opt for a matching stretchy set from Rodarte, Prada, or Burberry, and let your curves—and these optic prints—do the talking.
Add Some Life to Your Leather Jacket
No item is more crucial to a closet than a great leather jacket. This season’s most memorable styles have a little extra verve than your average moto jacket, though: There’s Bottega Veneta’s elongated bomber, Simone Rocha’s mega pouf, and a sleek style from Supriya Lele. Go ahead, get weird with it!
Channel Your Inner Dua
Hot Girl Summer is evolving into Pop Star Fall, and no one does it better than Dua Lipa. Her ‘90s-tinged looks evoke a sexy, sophisticated mood—Stella McCartney and Victoria Beckham are ready to dress her, and you, in bright micro-minis and dresses.
Show Your Stripes
Rugby stripes get a sensual new look at Chloé, Balmain, and Wales Bonner. Purists can try Monse’s skirt with a classic white button-up, while those looking for some va-va-voom might consider mixing it up with a Kenzo knit. The more directions, the better.
Supersize Your Jacket
Climate change has made planning for the weather impossible. Extra-large jackets from Celine and Loewe have made it all the easier to be ready—and cozy—for any climate. Even better? Their oversize shapes mean your sweater will actually fit inside the sleeves.
Get Weird With It!
Total look dressing is a thing of the past. Collage prints, upcycled patchworks, and retro graphics are all making a major comeback—best worn all together. So pair that Louis Vuitton with that Chopova Lowena! Weird times call for eccentric style.
