8 Trends I Didn't See Coming But Are Definitely a Thing

At Who What Wear, our editors are always on the watch for which cool trends are hitting at any given time. Many of them are ones we’ve predicted are studying what is unfolding on the runways. Other trends, however, end up surprising me—often micro-trends that gain traction on Instagram. Here, I’m breaking down some that I didn’t see coming, but are definitely a thing right now.

From "controversial” trends like slouchy cargo pants that are sitting at the top of my shopping list to throwback pieces like ‘90s mesh to the heel color that is suddenly taking over, these are all trends that you’ll spot in the closets of fashion’s coolest insiders. Here, see which cool spring trends I’m a personal fan of and shop my edit of the best pieces to add to your wardrobe. I promise you’ll find plenty of fresh outfit inspiration ahead.

Cargo Pants

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(Image credit: @pernilleteisbaek)

Part of the larger slouchy trousers trend we're seeing for spring, cargo pants are making a major resurgence. Instead of the form-fitting styles we saw years back, you'll want to go for a loose silhouette.

Shop the trend:

Orange Heels

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(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Orange is one of the colors of the moment and many fashion people are adding it to their wardrobes in the form of heels. I love that this can achieve a subtle pop of color when added to a neutral look like this one here.

Shop the trend:

Tinted Sunglasses

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(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

Suddenly, throwback tinted sunglasses are seriously everywhere on my Instagram feed. And yes, they're sitting in my shopping cart right now.

Shop the trend:

Black Bra Tops

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(Image credit: @endlesslyloveclub)

Just one of the "naked" trends taking over 2021, get ready to see lots of cool ways to style black bra tops as we head into spring and summer.

Shop the trend:

Sleeveless Turtlenecks

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(Image credit: @discodaydream)

Yep, my obsession with '90s-inspired turtlenecks is at an all-time high. The go-to shape to add to your closet now? Sleeveless versions that can easily transition into spring.

Shop the trend:

'90s Mesh

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

Nostalgia is in full swing. With it, the return of '90s-inspired mesh pieces. We're especially seeing bold colors and patterns, so this is where you can add a little personality to your look.

Shop the trend:

Flatforms

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(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)

Ready for the next cool (and comfortable) shoe trend? Flatforms in every style imaginable are about to take over.

Shop the trend:

Maxi Skirts

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(Image credit: @ali_tate_cutler)

Yep, maxi skirts are having a major moment right now. I'm convinced they will be the must-buy basic for spring. I especially love the crisp white versions that are popping up everywhere.

Shop the trend:

Next, shop 25 cool fashion finds I’m obsessing over right now.

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.