Future Of Fashion
Your 2020 wardrobe makeover.
There’s very little doubt that 2020 was the year comfiness reigned supreme. As people hunkered in their homes and adjusted to working remotely, they've totally revamped their wardrobe essentials. Leisurewear stepped into the spotlight and has pretty much stayed there ever since. Sweatsuits are now a completely acceptable form of office wear, and PJs are no longer relegated to just the bedroom. (Because if you haven’t worn silk separates to the grocery store yet, you haven’t truly lived.)
What do these new dressing norms signal for the future of fashion? For starters, comfy clothing isn’t going anywhere, at least not anytime soon. While just last year athleisure sales were beginning to slow down after years of rapid growth, and some predicted its inevitable demise, the pandemic came along and quickly changed that trajectory. These days, we’re experiencing an undeniable athleisure boom as people flock to their favorite retail sites to stock up on biker shorts, oversized hoodies, and yoga pants.
Even when the pandemic is a thing of the past and we all get back to actual commutes and meetings IRL, there’s going to be a significant transition phase. For some of us, it’s not going to be easy to swap out leggings for real pants that have buttons. But that’s why it’s important to invest in items that will stand the test of time, no matter what the trends say.
Ahead, check out an editor-approved list of fashion essentials that you should consider to be the new wardrobe staples. These are pieces that will be in frequent rotation in your closet, whether you remain more comfort-over-everything or you can’t wait to start dressing up again.
We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle's editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
1The Fleece Jacket
Sometimes you just have to let your outerwear do the talking. And this fleece number is certainly saying a lot. Throw it over a plain white tee and black leggings, add gold hoop earrings, and you’ll be more dressed up than you realize.
2The Pajama Set
Who said PJs have to be boring? Toss out that old T-shirt from college and splurge on these high-end jammies, complete with a playful feather trim that will make you feel instantly glam, even if you can’t remember the last time you brushed your hair.
3The Zoom-Worthy Top
Remember what dressing for fun felt like? If you aren’t ready to commit to pants-with-buttons just yet, stick to your leggings but switch things out on top with a statement-making blouse like this one that's perfect for all your Zoom calls.
4Leggings
The limit does not exist when it comes to black leggings. They’re an absolute must-have because they’re impossibly easy to style and work year-round. Layer these under a dress, sweatshirt, or jacket for a cozy winter look.
5The Hoop Earrings
No jewelry box is complete without a pair of dainty gold hoops. Whether you’re rocking sweats for the 100th day in a row or opting for something more formal, these beauties will work for any occasion. Bonus, they make you look instantly pulled together on video.
6The Slippers
If you haven’t taken the plunge on a designated pair of house slippers yet, what are you waiting for? The cozier the better, which is why these slips from Ugg are an editor favorite.
7The Puffer Coat
Winter is coming. So, it’s time to update your coat game with something functional and warm, but also slightly unexpected, like this bold purple puffer number.
8The Bralette
It’s hard to see bras making any kind of comeback in the post-pandemic world, but if any one style has a fair shot, it’s the bralette. They offer just a touch of support and so cozy you can wear them all day, seriously.
9The Tracksuit
Sweats tend to get the most attention in neutral palettes, but they can be colorful, too. This berry hue and Kenté cloth detail will look stellar with the matching joggers, but it can also shine separately worn with your favorite denim and white sneakers.
10The Hat
When doing your hair just isn’t gonna happen (hey, we’ve been there), this sleek baseball cap will be your best friend. Pull your hair into a low pony, reach for your aviator sunglasses, put this hat on, and you’re all set to conquer the day.
