9 Outdated Spring Fashion Trends and 9 We're Wearing Instead

When it comes to a brand new season, there’s a lot to digest. Luckily for you, it’s our job as editors to watch the latest runway shows, chat with insider fashion experts, and know what’s in the pipeline for retailers. Long story short, we study up on all things fashion for work so that you don’t have to. So, if you’re wondering what our thoughts are on the coolest pieces to buy right now, we have you covered.

Curious to know Who What Wear editors’ thoughts on the top trends for the months ahead and the outdated spring fashion trends they’re skipping for 2021, I asked them to share their unfiltered thoughts. Ahead, our team is diving into the must-buy items on their spring shopping lists they can’t wait to slip into, as well as the pieces they’re putting on the back burner—at least for right now.

Skipping: netting

Wearing: oversize button-downs

Even though we saw so much netting on the runways, I don't see it fitting into my wardrobe—as least not anytime soon. On the other hand, oversize button-downs are a piece I've been living in these days but now I feel like I have a whole new set of ways to style them after seeing them everywhere on the S/S 21 runways. First outfit formula I'm test-driving for spring? A Valentino-inspired look pairing an upsized button-down with a pair of micro shorts.

Pictured: Valentino S/S 21

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Skipping: sweatpants

Wearing: relaxed suiting

"While I'm primarily wearing sweats these days, I whip out polished pieces from time to time for various Zoom meetings. That said, I'm not reaching for my fitted suits and blazers any more. It's all about relaxed workwear this season—oversized blazers, loose trousers, and the like."—Bobby Schuessler

Pictured: Louis Vuitton S/S 21

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Skipping: yellow

Wearing: bright green

"I know that pale yellow/shades of yellow were all over the runways, but as much as I try to style it, I just don't think the color suits me that well. (Although I've seen some girls pull it off extremely well.) Instead, I'll be opting for brighter shades of green and bubblegum pink as my bright hues of choice." —Yusra Siddiqui

Pictured: Valentino S/S 21

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Skipping: off-the-shoulder tops

Wearing: polo tops

"I'm skipping off-the-shoulder tops this year in favor of refreshingly cool polos. While they've been gaining momentum in the last few seasons, by spring they're set to reign supreme. I particularly like a lightweight knit polo that will pair with anything from a mini skirt to track pants." —Judith Jones

Pictured: David Koma S/S 21

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Skipping: sporty sunglasses

Wearing: relaxed trousers

"This season I will be skipping over the sporty sunglasses trend. Although I love a good "ugly" moment, I can guarantee those sunnies will not look good on my face. Instead, I am really excited to dive into really relaxed trousers. Naturally, rigid denim is no longer my go-to, so this tailored yet comfortable alternative feels just right." —Lauren Eggertsend

Pictured: Chloé S/S 21

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Skipping: slippers

Wearing: edgy flats

"I’ve been wearing the cozy slipper trend into the ground, so for spring I want to do a complete 180 and go for edgy flats that feel more formal. Square toe shoes check all of those boxes for me, so I’m excited to delve into a trend I’ve never tried before and come up with some fresh looks." —Indya Brown

Pictured: Nanushka S/S 21

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Skipping: Bermuda shorts

Wearing: miniskirts 

"Unfortunately, I couldn't make Bermuda shorts work for my height (which is short), so I'm giving up on that trend, although I've certainly seen others pull it off. The trend I am intrigued by is miniskirts, with their leg-lengthening powers. I especially love them with knee-high boots or loafers and ankle socks." —Allyson Payer

Pictured: Chanel S/S 21

Skipping: bucket hats

Wearing: baseball caps

"I'm ready to put aside bucket hats this year and go for something a little sportier: baseball caps. I think they're more timeless than bucket hats and just look more effortless. They were shown with nearly every look in the Celine S/S 21 collection, so my bad hair day savior is officially runway-approved." —Erin Fitzpatrick

Pictured: Celine S/S 21

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Skipping: G-string pieces

Wearing: low-rise pants

"Even though I love a 'risky' look, I'll be skipping the G-string trend myself. I just know it's something that wouldn't suit me personally. Surprisingly, though, low-rise pants are the look I'm actually into for spring. I hadn't given them a single thought since my middle school era, but seeing all the creative styling ideas from the runways has changed my mind, particularly these loose trousers with a low-slung waistline give off such a relaxed cool vibe."

Pictured: S/S 21 Dion Lee

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