4 Footwear Trends We’re Predicting For 2021
Image Courtesy: Pinterest
2020 was an eventful year in regards to fashion, since we had plenty of free time to browse new ideas and content that was constantly released. With all of the new purchases resulting from online shopping boredom and nowhere to go, casual daily activities such as grocery shopping suddenly called for a black-tie dress code. Since masks have taken the focus away from our faces, fashion is left as our primary source of self-expression. Eagerly waiting for 2021 for a fresh new start in this prime-time to be bold, everyone was yearning for a change!
This change starts with our footwear. The last several years or so, neutral-colored, simple shoes were “the norm”, in order for the outfit itself to stand out. Today, however, shoes are becoming the center of attention and prime focus of the outfit, neutral-colored or bold. Several shoe trends are on the rise, and 2021 will bring them to the next level of Pinterest relevancy!
To begin, for the remaining winter and next fall season, I have three words: glorified cowboy boots. Glorified cowboy boots are the perfect twist on a staple piece in everyone’s wardrobe. While typical cowboy boots are normally frowned upon, booties with western detail have slowly been making their way up onto Instagram models’ pages. In addition to the existing trend of knee-high leather and crocodile boots, the cowboy boot’s triangular and slightly more oval cut is expected to be more popular this year, as opposed to the “straight cut” hem of the boots. These have the fullest capacity to, and most likely will, continue throughout the spring and summer seasons due to their versatility. As of now, the boots are being paired with knit skirts and dresses, long trench coats, and bootcut jeans. In the summer, they can be paired with flowy dresses and skirts of various tones, and, once again, bootcut jeans.
For the spring and summer seasons, we are loving short heels. Both chunky and thin heels have been in style for the last several years. However, 2021 will incorporate these low, short heels with the “flip flop” style. Flip flops are often criticized and associated with laziness; however, with a heel or platform, and made from materials like suede and leather, beachwear will be meeting nights out on the town.
Also going along the lines of sandals, remember those jelly sandals we wore as kids? That’s right, they’re making a comeback, but with a more dramatic platform or heel. This throwback has made appearances throughout the years, but will be staying with us this time. Their colorful, lighthearted association makes them a bold, staple piece, which, as mentioned before, is running back in full speed.
Perhaps the most memorable trend in 2020 was the leisure-chic look, which really took those "bummy" days to the next level with jewelry and various accessories. Slippers and slides have been essential in quarantine content, and will continue to be as long as leisure is in style. More specifically, the new Yeezy slides have been pictured in these kinds of outfits, often paired with a cute sock or classy white pedicure.
This year it’s all about comfort and being bold- so don’t be afraid to give it your best shot and rock your favorite new purchases!
Strike Out,
Writer: Christina Zaprianova
Athens