Who remembers off-duty model style? I don’t know about you, but when I hear that phrase, I automatically think of a very specific aesthetic from the early 2010s that dominated the street style scene, infiltrated magazine spreads, and flooded Pinterest boards all across the internet (my own mood board included). If you need a refresher, the off-duty model look was centered around a simple outfit recipe: dark skinny jeans, ankle boots, and a leather moto jacket. Well, seeing as we’ve entered a new decade and the fashion world never stops innovating, the new era of off-duty style is officially here.
In 2021, off-duty model style eschews the austere canvas of an all-black look in favor of more fashion-forward and experimental ensembles. Chic suiting, polished separates, statement coats, and sleek leather are all pillars of this new vibe, and runway models from Bella Hadid to Paloma Elsesser and Aduta Akech to Ashley Graham tend to agree. After studying tons of outfits worn by models now, we’ve decided that this new off-duty style hinges on the below six elements. See how they wear each, and then shop them for your own wardrobe below.
Do you ever notice how some of the most stylish street style looks involve a monochromatic palette? The model crowd always uses this styling trick to create their most polished ensembles and it’s worth adopting into your own wardrobe. Try mixing in different tones in the same color family for a cohesive look.
Who: Hailey Bieber 
Who: Irina Shayk 
Instead of the über casual vibe of the older model-off-duty style, this new era is all about more elevated looks and suiting is the fashion’s crowd’s favorite way to accomplish this. Whether it be a full pantsuit, skirt suit, or separates, these structured pieces are a key element.
Who: Gigi Hadid 
WHO: Hailey Bieber 
Shop the matching Cotton Blazer ($290) 
Shop the matching Single Button Blazer Jacket ($149). 
Shop the matching Princes of Wales Checked Woven Mini Skirt ($98).
The model crowd also knows that cold weather is never an excuse to skimp on style, it’s simply an excuse to flaunt a stunning coat. And when you wear a topper as eye-catching as these, it’s an outfit in and of itself.
Who: Tina Kunakey 
Who: Bella Hadid 
Models are constantly shuffling from show to show during fashion week which means they’re prioritizing things that are easy to throw on. And what could be easier than a matching two-piece set? Just add accessories and it basically styles itself.
Who: Paloma Elsesser 
Who: Aduta Akech 
Shop the matching Voluminous Crinkled Silk Blend Shirt ($149).
Let’s face it: we’re so drawn to model-off-duty style because it has that cool factor we can’t quite put our finger on. Based on the recent street style I’ve seen, I think it points to the leather dressing trend. Topping off your look with a sleek leather jacket or opting for leather trousers is what adds that “who’s that girl?” vibe.
Who: Kendall Jenner 
Who: Cindy Bruna 
Comfort is also key. Seeing as models usually walk the runways in tall heels, I can see why lug soles are the favored footwear among the off-duty crowd. They’re ultra-walkable and the chunky platform sole makes them a trendy pick, too.
Who: Elsa Hosk 
Who: Jill Kortleve 
For more from the fashion crowd, see the six necklace trends they’re embracing right now.
From Bella to Paloma to Ashley.
Who What Wear Read More
XOXO
