What a year it has been! Not just in the sense of the “unprecedented times” as you may have heard, but also in the event of the entire fashion world being turned upside down. Generally speaking, the fashion industry runs and thrives on the assumption that people want to be seen, out in the world, in unique clothing. The simple idea that one’s personal clothing choice is a visualization of one’s personality or feelings has proved to be a powerful driving force in the world of design and fashion for generations. 

So when regular events and parties and even casual shopping at the mall were put on pause with COVID-19, you can imagine how the giants of the fashion world had to scramble to stay afloat and keep customers engaged despite the lack of, well, any need for new clothing at all. 

In my opinion, watching designers work with the world’s new social conditions has been incredibly interesting. We are seeing how the great creative minds of today work under pressure when forced to adapt to unseen circumstances – which can seem stressful and risky but also inventive and revolutionary. (I’m not saying that the recent tidal wave of sweatpants in our closets is revolutionary, but you get the point). These are a few of my favorite fashion trends and takeaways from Fall of 2020. Enjoy!

1.Patchwork! I love this trendy, eclectic combo of fabrics. Like a wearable collage, whenever I see patchwork – from jeans to sweaters – I always do a double take in admiration.    

2. Loungewear! Raise your hand if you have purchased at least one new pair of sweatpants since March. Exactly. In my opinion, the matching sweatsuit trend is the mascot of 2020, and the funkier, the better.

3. Shearling! I give my 100% support to the long, fluffy, puffy coat as a proud freeze baby. Vegan shearling is always encouraged, of course.

4. Victorian Vibes! The fashion world has gone full Little Women with square necklines, ornate fabric detail, and structured silhouettes. So flouncy and fancy!

5. Minimalist accessories! I’m talking bags here.  The smaller the better. All thanks to genius designer Jacquemus for bringing the tiny bag back much before its time.