With warmer days — and herd immunity — blissfully around the corner, it’s finally time for that long-awaited style upgrade.
And nothing says “I’m ready to emerge from a full year of hibernation” like seasonal, trend-forward bags (remember those?!) and shoes.
Lucky for us, 2021 spring trends are all about making a statement without sacrificing on comfort. From tiny totes to bag belts to eye-popping rainbow prints, the word of the moment in fashion is fun.
And in 2021, who couldn’t use a bit more of that?
Cutting-edge chic
It’s minimalism — with a post-pandemic twist. If comfort is your thing, pad around town in this season’s ubiquitous quilted looks, which elevate classic silhouettes with au courant textures. Unexpected color combos add megawatt status to metallic mini purses and sultry stilettos. Structured totes and recycled rubber chelsea boots are a study in blending utility with fashionable flair.
“Mini Kendrick” trunk, $110 atBrandon Blackwood; “Rampling” pumps, $355 at SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker
Courtesy of the designers
“Etiny” tote, $77 at Daily Paper Clothing; Recycled-rubber chelsea boots, $245 at GanniCourtesy of the designers
“Croissant” bag, $69 at JW Pei; Michael Michael Kors “Amelia” slide sandals, $120 at Michael KorsCourtesy of the designersPlayful pairings
The key to wearing the season’s most over-the-top accessories? Owning it. Whether it’s decking yourself in eye-popping monochromatic kitsch — think a beaded limeade-green purse and matching floral chunky sandals — reaching for a rainbow tie-dye purse with a smattering of sparkles or rocking retro polka-dot heels with a smiley-face tote, these unabashedly whimsical items will add serious pep to your step.
“Citrus” bag, $250 atSusan Alexandra; Melissa x Lazy Oaf sandals, $129 at Lazy OafCourtesy of the designers
“Yellow Happy” tote, $12 atBaggu; “Flamenco” sandals, $198 at Kate SpadeCourtesy of the designers
Gedebe“Basket Ibiza” bag, $630 at NeimanMarcus.com; “ComfyCush Old Skool” tie dye sneakers, $70 at VansCourtesy of the designersOffbeat classics
Standard silhouettes with a modern twist? Refreshing! The shoulder bag gets a mesh makeover, while sneaker soles benefit from unexpected shapes. A ruffle-trimmed belt bag looks like a portable picnic — perfect for outdoor gatherings — while a graphic heel reinvents the typically dainty, understated mule. If school-day style is more your thing, try an updated cushy backpack and mixed-media oxfords.
“Shiloh” bag, $250 at Loeffler Randall; “Nadalie” heeled mules, $40 at ASOSCourtesy of the designers
Shoulder bag, $23 at ASOS.com (LINK TKTK); “Digital Terrain” Disrupt CX sneakers, $120 at ConverseCourtesy of the designers
“Bowery” backpack, $295 at MZ Wallace; “Krystal” lug oxfords, $118 at SchutzCourtesy of the designers