A Former Barneys Design Director Told Me Which Trends to Buy and Skip This Year

If you're not yet familiar with Erica Choi and aren't yet one of her 379k Instagram followers, let's change that. Her feed is a constant source of outfit ideas and home and beauty inspiration. Her wardrobe transitions seamlessly from lounging at home to the streets of Brooklyn (where she's based). And while she's now busy launching her own vegan skincare line, Superegg, it's easy to see why she was once the Design Director at Barneys New York—she has an impeccable eye.

If you love fashion and want to catch a glimpse of the latest Chanel shoes or Bottega Veneta It bag, or to see how to wear the latest trends IRL, you've met your match in Choi. And due to the fact that she's so attuned to all the trends and It items, I asked her to share her 2021 shopping list with me.

The philosophy Choi has for the new year is as follows: "I feel like anything goes in 2021, especially coming out of the pandemic. I do find myself leaning towards pieces that I will be comfortable wearing all day long, whether that be on my couch with my laptop or running out to get a couple of things from the grocery store. I absolutely love an elevated version of everyday pieces like a sweater or house slippers that feel special and won’t compromise on style or comfort." Couldn't agree more.

Read on to find out which trends Erica Choi recommends shopping for this year, and a few that she's vowing to skip.

"As a reminder of the club scene, it doesn’t appeal to me much anymore. I haven’t minded it in small details, however, there are other methods to revitalize our wardrobe through different patterns, prints, and color."—Erica Choi

"Impractical for running errands, but they are still nice to wear once in a while when you want to get dressed up just to get dressed up."

"I’ve definitely been gravitating more towards my combat boots as it just feels more grounding, and that’s what we all need right now. In theory, sock boots are also supposed to be easier to put on and off, but find myself struggling to do so sometimes."

"With everyday zoom calls, an easy fix is to throw on an oversized blazer over whatever you are wearing. When leaving the house, pair it with a micro mini skirt, biker shorts, or yoga leggings."

"Shoes to wear around the house have been on so many of my wishlists. Since we spend so much time at home and it's basically what I wear around the apartment all day long, I like them to be cute and versatile. This allows me to also take a quick selfie with whatever outfit I am wearing at that moment!"

"From sleeping to running errands, house dresses seem to be the most versatile piece of clothing."

"The emphasis on slow fashion and the emergence of more sustainable brands has been incredible. Being aware of what a garment is made of and where the fabrics come from, as well as the transparency of the supply chain and ethical practices makes us more conscious consumers that consider both people and the planet."

"I was never really one to wear a lot of pinks, but it’s back in a refreshing, modern way."

Shop the matching Merino Rayon Mouliné Skirt ($285).

"If I feel like an outfit needs an extra something, I always reach for a chunky necklace. It’s an instant way to dress up a casual look or add an edge factor."

"I’m still obsessed with the romanticism of a puff sleeve blouse or dress. There’s a certain innocence that it gives off while still being very easy to wear."

"As the focus is definitely on everyday ease, knit sets are a simple way to look chic without sacrificing style or comfort. Knit sets are replacing my sweat sets this year."