4 Fashion Trends from 2020 That Are Here to Stay by Rania Rizvi

2020 was many things, but at least it was a good year in fashion.

With the rise of fashion-related Tik Toks and Pinterest boards, we have had way too much time to experiment with cute fits over quarantine. Everyone has seemingly stepped up their game and had their proverbial pandemic glow-up.

But if you’re in that percentage of us who bummed out in sweatpants all year long and have nowhere to start, I got you covered! Here are four trends from this year that aren’t going anywhere next year.

1. The Sweatsuit

If Kylie isn’t the queen of this trend, I don’t know who is! This two piece leisure staple typically features fuzzy sweatpants and a matching sweatshirt, or tank top, made from the same material. It is a classic for us lazy girls who want to be comfortable but still like to feel somewhat put together.

Sweatsuits are also super versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It is also flexible enough to wear for lounging around the house and binging your favorite Netflix series. If you want to step it up with an effortless look for running errands, you can throw on some hoops, a bold lip, throw your hair up in a bun and pair with some chunky sneakers for a casual, chic look.

With the pandemic still alive and well, and winter officially upon us, we are going to have a few more months cooped up at home so we might as well be comfortable!

2. Biker Shorts

Made popular by fashion icons like rapper Megan Thee Stallion, the biker short became super popular this summer and is sure to make a comeback when the weather warms up.

It’s the perfect balance between having the length of a pair of shorts with the comfort and flexibility of a legging. It can be easily styled up or down for city chic and athleisure looks.

For a city chic look, pair black biker shorts with pointed black heeled boots and a blazer for a bold silhouette. You can even add an extra kick with a bold red lip and black shades. If you’re more into the relaxed, athleisure look, pair black or white biker shorts with a loose sweatshirt, Nikes, and a neon, white, or black windbreaker.

3. Medium Rise Mom Jeans

This is probably one of my most favorite fashion trends of all time. Though the mom Jeans trend has been around for some time, with the rise of the “cottage core” aesthetic, they’re a must have to stay trendy.

Mom jeans instantly add body and shape to any outfit’s silhouette and are so effortlessly 90’s fashion. They are much more comfortable than the skinny jeans of the past decade while bringing a homey vibe to any outfit.

If you’re looking to follow the current cottage core aesthetic, you can pair these jeans with a thin belt and any loose-fit flower patterned tops, button downs, or button-up cardigan sweaters to do so. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a chic winter look, pair black mom jeans with a rich red turtleneck, gold chains, and some combat boots for a holiday look with some attitude.

4. Puffy Sleeves

Puffy sleeves are an unexpected new favorite of mine. If you’re looking to spice up your closet and play with fitting, the puffy sleeve is your best bet.

I know some might be skeptical at the idea of “puffiness” but fear not...This trendy staple comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. So whether you’re looking for a subtle sleeve that adds an effortlessly chic vibe to a plain blouse, or a show-stopping sleeve that could be found at the Met Gala, there’s always a puff sleeve for you.

What’s so great about the puffy sleeve is that it adds volume to the upper half of the silhouette, creating a more effeminate touch to blouses and peplum tops. They are the perfect addition to achieving a softer, more delicate look. On the flip side, a larger puffy sleeve can add sass and drama to a plain shirt. Paired with a tie-up corset, it can transform the look into a fiery, city rocker staple.

Other honorable 2020 fashion mentions include the resurgence of the button down sweatshirt combo, checkered prints, animal print, and the platform boot.

Fashion trends are ever-changing and following them can feel almost impossible. So here’s what I suggest to anyone looking to change up their style: use trends as a guide and inspiration for styling your looks.

Don’t be afraid to try something new and if you’re scared to commit to new clothes, try playing around with accessories first. That being said, don’t fill your closet with cottage core and biker shorts if it isn’t true to you; being trendy isn’t all that cracked up to be about. Remember: trends come and go, but true style is timeless!