If you’re looking to stay cool in the new year, here are a few upcoming trends to watch for, along with some past trends to leave behind:
In:
Oat milk
A lagging competitor in the milk-alternative race, oat milk has seen a recent surge in popularity, with its dairy-like creaminess edging ahead of almond, coconut and soy milks. High demand has led to a shortage, causing price increases -- 2 liters of Oatly, a popular oat milk brand, will cost you around $45 on amazon.com.
Meat alternatives
Demand is rising for plant-based foods, and not just from vegans. Along with meat and dairy alternatives, you’ll find a growing number of animal-free processed foods. Another meat alternative that’s getting some buzz is lab meat -- a meat-like substance that comes from animal cells being grown in a plant-based medium. The science (and ethics) of the concept is still in development, but it may not be as far into the future as it sounds -- a ground chicken product is expected to be released within the year.
Peganism
Not to be confused with actual heathens, this dietary preference is the result of combining aspects of both the paleo and vegan diet. This is a fine line to walk, as one of these diets prohibits animal-based food and the other gives it a warm welcome. In general, the pegan diet is focused on eating natural, whole foods, comprised primarily of vegetables. Meat, gluten-free grains and beans are used sparingly; dairy is limited or avoided; fruits are kept to a minimum; and processed sugars are a very limited treat. Gluten, GMOs and artificial anything is completely out.
Wallpaper
Gone are the days of colored accent walls, it’s time to decorate your space with wallpaper containing patterns and textures. Which means it’s also a good time to invest in wallpaper stripper, as it will be in high demand in a few years.
Jewel tones
The muted grays that have dominated our interiors are moving towards either whites or vibrant colors that resemble gemstones, like ruby, emerald, topaz, amethyst and sapphire. Look for bold interior statements like mustard yellow walls and black bathrooms.
Mixing styles
Whether it’s clothing fashion or interior fashion, no one wants to be too “matchy-matchy” these days. Break up your mid-century, modern look with a contemporary lamp and Victorian couch and don’t be afraid to combine patterns and styles in your wardrobe. As a general rule, if it doesn’t match, it’s probably cool.
Bamboo bags
These basket-like bags look to get big this season. Expect to see these structured fashion pieces paired with everything from sleek, minimalist attire to casual wear.
Statement sneakers
Some sneakers demand attention, and that’s a look that’s growing in popularity. Whether your shoes have vibrant colors and patterns, big glam and sparkle, or hefty soles, look for these to be paired with anything from casual to dressed up.
Out:
Avocados
Avocado toast was good, but was it really that good? Either way, we’ve had our fill and are moving on to bigger and better breakfasts. Some say the acai bowl is next to fall, but others hold out that it has secured a spot as a dietary staple.
Plastic straws
Nothing quite says “behind-the-times baby sea lion killer” like using a disposable plastic drinking straw. Seattle’s ban on plastic straws went into full effect last year in an attempt to mitigate their harm to the environment and marine wildlife. A number of American corporations, including Starbucks, have agreed to phase them out. For the trendy, eco-conscious who like to sip with straw, check out the metal and glass reusable straws that have hit the market.
Ikat and trellis patterns
These highly structured patterns have appeared on woven everything from rugs to sweaters. Whether you love them or hate them, you’ll be seeing less of them in the new year. Get ready for florals to take their place.
Succulents
These fleshy, water-retaining plants have been a botanical badge of coolness, appearing on dining tables, work spaces and Instagram accounts for the past couple years. They’ve grown tiresome in their ubiquitous popularity and we’re moving on. What’ll be the next trend? Some say ferns, others think big sculptural plants like monstera deliciosa, or Swiss cheese plant.
Word art
Our decor has been ordering us to “eat,” “dream,” and “live, laugh and love” for long enough. Expect to see a continued decrease in word-based art and a movement towards large, inexpensive canvas prints.
Super skinny jeans
We all voted that jeans that are so tight that you have to paint them on were doing none of us any favors. Keep your not-too-skinny skinny jeans if you like, but vintage jeans, the ones some of us remember wearing in grade school, are making a big comeback. Look for lighter washes, higher cuts and looser fits.
