21 Ways To Make Your Wardrobe More 2021 – Because We Won’t Be In Lockdown Forever

Given what 2020 had in store for us all, if the normally gung-ho new-year-new-you is feeling more than a little clapped out and cynical this time around, then we understand. But perhaps we need new year resolutions this year more than ever. What that doesn’t mean is embarking on impossible-to-achieve ambitious projects that will inevitably fall by the wayside by mid-January (especially since we're all in lockdown again).

What that does mean is taking small steps to feel like a more emboldened, more optimistic version of yourself. Getting dressed is an easy place to start, and small wardrobe refreshes can make a big difference. From footless tights to baseball caps, gloves to clogs – these are 21 ways to kickstart your 2021 wardrobe now. And if you want to take just one sartorial missive into the new year, let it be this: let’s all get dressed to face the world again (eventually). Because what could be more hopeful than that?

1) Try an unexpected pairing

‘Illuminating Yellow’ and ‘Ultimate Grey’ are Pantone’s 2021 Colours of the Year.

2) Revisit footless tights

The early noughties style staple is back according to Chanel (can’t bear the flashbacks? Colourful and logo-emblazoned hosiery is also having a major moment).

3) Dare to bare.

Marcia’s daring cut out dresses are already taking over Instagram.

4) Banish bad hair days

The baseball cap is the ultimate low-maintenance accessory and happening now according to Celine’s Hedi Slimane.

5) Get into the groove.

Swirly, psychedelic patterns are the new tie-dye.

6) Wear a thong

And absolutely, definitely make sure it’s on show (see: Matthew William’s Givenchy debut).

7) Turn up the volume

XXL wide-legged trousers are the new skinnies.

8) Tuck into a corset

Bottega Veneta’s Daniel Lee shows it doesn’t have to be scary.

9) Haute up your hoodie

Team under tailoring, or over a swishy skirt. The loungewear revolution continues.

10) Slip on a pair of posh gloves

Glamour and pandemic-approved? Win-win.

11) Put a bow on it (everything, anything)

Winsome romance is coming in strong now.

12) Protect your eyes

Tory Burch’s blue-light glasses protect against screen glare, and are a welcome addition to your accessories arsenal.

13) Book to see Chintz: Cotton in Bloom at the Fashion and Textile Museum

Wallpaper florals will get you in the mood before then.

14) Annoy your downstairs neighbours

Or, preferably, consider stompy, clompy clogs an excuse to get outside more.

15) Take up crochet

Not crafty? Christian Dior, Gabriela Hearst and Eckhaus Latta are here to help.

16) Start following Talia Ryder, Tiffany Boone, Odessa Young and Lyna Khoudri

Red carpets gathered dust in 2020, we can’t wait to see what these breakthrough stars bring when they’re rolled out again.

17) Do-good, feel-good

Brands working towards a more positive future – see Bethany Williams, Telfar, Brother Vellies– are gaining momentum.

18) Have a daytime disco

We’re making up for lost time, people! Metallics help you dress the part.

19) Try waist-down

Supersized shirts and long-line blazers can double as dresses. Besides, nobody needs to know on Zoom, right?

20) Don’t pack away these pieces, they're all still happening:

Jumbo collars, sweater vests, supersized earrings (see the teaser picture for Kim Jones’ debut Fendi couture collection for proof).

21) And finally… Get happy!

Joyful clothes aren’t just a much-needed mood boost, they’re a statement of intent for 2021.