Jean Trends for 2021

In Denim We Trust: Styles for 2021

BY ABHISHEK PRADEEP

21 MARCH 2021

The elastane you find in your typical pair of skinny jeans is unrecyclable a

nd severely bad for the planet.

The Skinny Jeans are Dead: Remember how slowly bootcut jeans faded out?

The same is going to happen with skinny jeans.

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Considering how we’ve spent the past year in our homes wearing comfy knits and baggies, it’s not anonymous that the fashion landscape is changing rapidly. Although it's been a comfy year (clothing-wise, of course), we have been longing to dress up a bit, passeggiata and what better way to do it than with a good pair of jeans? So far, 2021 has already brought us great jeans that are not only stylish and comfortable but also ethical and planet-friendly.

Fashion is always evolving, I don’t want to be left behind, so I’m always experimenting with what’s on-trend at the moment. One trend we'll be seeing a lot more of is biodegradable denim. As more consumers are alarmed about the fast-fashion’s effect on the planet and unethical trade practices, it is demanding brands to create collections of biodegradable and upcycled denim, having a minimal environmental impact.

So, before we talk about Denim styles. Let’s talk about: How fashion trends work.

The most brand you are familiar with follows a Fashion Lifecycle, and they exist on a spectrum. They will gradually increase in popularity until they eventually peak, and then slowly decrease in popularity as they phase out. As each trend rises and falls in popularity, it overlaps the other trends that are also rising and falling, but they rarely rise and fall in synchrony. Older styles get phased out as newer styles arrive on the shelf.

Here’s a visual to illustrate my point. I’m totally making this up, as far as the actual data goes and my observations. They are correlational and observable.

Also remember that where you live has a lot to do with when these trends rise and fall, and which ones have the most staying power, and your eye will adjust as the new styles become mainstream.

I follow fashion influencers based in France and Italy who are already wearing the oversized, baggy trends that we are just starting to hear about here in India, and I follow some who are wearing slim tapered straight fit styles almost exclusively.

So, What Jeans are in style for 2021?

Where I live, Kannur. The women are definitely still wearing their skinny jeans, but when I’m at Tier 1 and Tier 2 city (Bangalore/Goa), I see a lot of the straighter styles, mom jeans, high rise cropped flares, and even some of the long baggy jeans.

To keep to the illustration above, skinny jeans have peaked in popularity and are on the downward slope of the line graph and straighter, relaxed styles are on the upturn and with rising climate changes and monumental environment degradation, upcycled denim has the top spot.

1. Upcycled Denim

With the continued rise of environmental awareness, focus on circular fashion and sustainability, the upcycled and refurbished jean is a must-have for 2021. Resourcefulness and frugality go hand-in-hand with craft and DIY aesthetics: upcycle deadstock denim, patch up vintage jeans and get creative.

2. Slim Bootcut

Straight-leg jeans feel undoubtedly classic, and with the '90s bootcut upgrade, they will work seamlessly with any outfit you decide on. The best part: they can be easily dressed up or down and allow for a shoe moment.

3. Baggy Jeans

As a result of the current climate, we find ourselves in, our homes have become the new office. We’re now prioritizing looser fits for comfort and wearability; Loose-fitting jeans are the perfect trend for transitioning out of your loungewear.

4. Flare

Seventies-style bell-bottoms are making a serious comeback. Wearing them is one of the easiest ways to create a polished look even with a classic white t-shirt.

5. Straight fit jeans

The look is a slim straight jean that hits the waist or even higher, can be a zip or button fly. This is a style, with a higher rise and a longer leg – no exposed ankles!

Conclusion

So, “DO I HAVE TO GET RID OF MY SKINNY JEANS?”

Swift answer? No.

They're easy, they're stylish, and they've already been paid for. However, if there are any jeans in your closet that you don't love, use this as a defence to let them go. We're living in 2021, the post Pandemic era, and unless you need them for your job or hobby, you don't require several pairs of jeans.

There is no need to follow any trend. Ever. The most stylish people in the world doesn’t follow fashion trends. They wear what they want and wear it proudly. If your personal style is dark rinse ankle jeans or indigo blue skinny jeans or patchworked flare jeans, rock them because knowing your body and personal style is incredibly attractive.

Remember how slowly bootcut jeans faded out? They faded so slowly, yet noticeably. The same is going to happen with skinny jeans. With whatever denim is in your closet, it is never too late to have fun with fashion and try new trends. You have the right to wear anything that pleases you. Just be sure that what you wear makes you happy and rock them proud!

Works Cited

2021's Denim Trends Are Prepping to Give Your Sweats a Run For Their Money. (2021, March 19). Retrieved from POPSUGAR Fashion: https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/jeans-trends-2021-48059106

5 Denim Trends That Are Hitting Their Expiration Date in 2021. (2020, December 10). Retrieved from Who What Wear: https://www.whowhatwear.com/new-denim-trends-2021/slide26

The Skinny Jean Is Dead. (2021, March 10). Retrieved from ELLE: https://www.elle.com/uk/fashion/trends/a32337/best-denim-jeans-style-trends/

What Jeans are In Style For 2021? (2021, March 7). Retrieved from Jo: https://jolynneshane.com/what-jeans-are-in-style-for-2021.html