Trends to Try – Fall Fashion 2021

by Kerry Andersen

Boutique and fashion line owner Kaysie Bolton sums up fall fashion trends this year in two words: kitchen sink. It means anything goes! That includes reaching back to the 90’s for inspiration in oversized silhouettes (but with bigger prints to balance things out) or throwing on an oversized shirt in place of a jacket. Bolton says, “In a year of supply and demand challenges and factory shutdowns, fashion is taking a cue from our global chaos and looking to social media and the streets for inspiration.” Sleek, neutral, and tailored? Check. Oversized with neon and patterns? Also check! If it feels right, wear it! 

NEON NIGHTS 

(AND DAYS TOO)

Perhaps it’s a response to the doldrums of recent months, but the fashion gurus have turned up the dial on color for fall 2021. It’s not your ordinary color wheel but a range of vibrant, saturated neon shades like cobalt blue and the Pantone shade of the season, Illuminating, which is bright chartreuse. Forget small pops of color – store racks will be bursting with bold, electric shades guaranteed to wake up your wardrobe. Sweaters are having a fashion moment as color meets comfy; grab one for an easy way to energize your closet!   

SUPERSIZE YOUR JACKET

The oversized blazer trend is not only sticking around, but taking over outerwear. Big coats are the big story this season including hip and puffy cloud coats. Look also for larger leather jackets that stand out with details like extra detail zippers, puffy sleeves, and fringe – yes, fringe! 

BLUE JEANS and 

FESTIVAL VIBES

Blue jeans are an iconic part of the American wardrobe, and this season sees the return of dark wash denim. Vintage low-rise styles are back along with baggy bootcut jeans. Even though most festivals were canceled this year, Bolton says festival wear prevails and will influence trends with a cool-kids vibe like flowy tops, flare jeans, boots, and statement hats. 

SHOW YOUR STRIPES

Solids are out this season and all things geometric, striped, and plaid are right on trend. Try a striped blouse to lean into this fashion moment or jump all the way in with head-to-toe logo patterns cropping up on loungewear and athleisure items. Subtle is out – pattern is in! 

IN FULL BLOOM

One pattern will prevail above all others this fall – florals! Look for more muted versions of summer florals to make the transition between seasons. Pair a blouse featuring poppy florals with a pair of wool winter trousers for an ‘of the moment’ look. Designer dresses featuring joyful head to toe florals are dominating the fashion runways this season.  

CARRY IT ALL

If you’ve ever struggled to fit a lipstick and cell phone into a tiny on-trend clutch, you’ll love fall’s accessory trend of carry-it-all bags. Expect to see large totes everywhere – large enough to carry your lunch, your laptop and anything else you need throughout the day. Bigger is better! 

Beyond seasonal trends, Bolton says, “The larger industry trend toward sustainable fashion is spreading globally with consumers looking for eco-friendly inks, organic cotton and ethically responsible fashion houses. This global movement is here to stay as more socially conscious customers demand to know where products are made, who is making them and who is pocketing the profits.” 

Bayou Blend Apparel is located at 313 Broad Street, Lake Charles. Learn more at shopbayoublend.com.

Kaysie Bolton is the founder and owner of Bayou Blend Apparel. The clothing brand was born out of her son’s Autism diagnosis and grew into a line of stylish streetwear that adheres to sensory needs by utilizing buttery soft fabrics and specially blended inks. The company has expanded to add two new lines: L.A. to LA, a California vibe with Louisiana roots, and SPIRITUALITY, an expression of faith and positivity. Bayou Blend’s first brick and mortar retail outlet opens this month at 313 Broad Street, Lake Charles.