Five fashion trends from the 2010s that are making a comeback

Pair bomber jackets with feminine dresses; Wear neutral elements with colour-blocked separates; flowing peplums are in vogue this year; Broad statement belts can add definition; slim, not skinny, is the way to go with denims. Pics/Getty Images

Of late, fashion has been looking into past decades for inspiration. And if TikTok's fashion gurus are to be believed, the clock hands have moved back to the 2010s, with five of the era's hottest trends coming back into circulation, with a few timely updates, of course. "The 2010s were an interesting time as social media platforms were coming into their own. Fashion became bolder, more dramatic and more playful, as fashion-lovers began to emulate runway trends," says image consultant and personal branding expert Mihika Bhanot.

Mihika Bhanot and Mitali Ambekar

1. Bomber jackets

"A good bomber jacket is easily one of the safest wardrobe investments you can make, considering how versatile and timeless these pieces are. Choose jackets that have an oversized fit and are made of luxe fabrics to tone down the athletic appeal. For a more cohesive, evening wear-appropriate look, wear these jackets as a part of a monotone outfit. You could also experiment with texture and silhouette by paring a bulky, oversized bomber jacket with a feminine pastel-coloured dress," says fashion stylist Mitali Ambekar.

2. Colour-blocking

Colour-blocking in 2021 is not as jarring as its first iteration. "In 2011, when the trend first surfaced, colour-blocking was about picking the most dramatic contrasts and including as many different shades in your look as possible. This time, colour-blocking is subtler, with a maximum of two or three bold colours. Include neutral elements for balance and keep your accessories to a minimum," Bhanot suggests.

3. Peplum silhouettes

Peplum is used to describe a gathered or pleated strip of fabric that's typically attached near the waist of jackets, dresses, or blouses. The ruffles make the waist appear smaller as they accentuate the hips. Bhanot says, "The 2021 update sees peplum returning in softer, flowing fabrics that don't look as dramatic but still highlight your figure. If you have narrow hips, pick a piece that has longer drapes at the sides."

4. Skinny jeans

Gen Z may have written them off as outmoded, but skinny jeans continue to have a loyal following that swears by their streamlined silhouette. Bhanot says, "Recognising the need for comfort and practicality, many women are switching to a slim-straight style. This is a high-rise fit that is slim throughout and tapers at the ankle. It works well with high heels to add definition to your look. When picking a pair, stick to classic blues, which are experiencing a resurgence of sorts and a cropped style that exposes your ankles."

5. Broad belts

Belts are going bigger and thicker, says Ambekar. She also points to the growing popularity of obi belts, which look striking when worn over oversized dresses as well as with layered looks.