Fashion trends 2022: the key styles to shop for this season
The fashion trends 2022 has to offer will reinvigorate your wardrobe. From bright colors to artisanal detailing, this season is all about rediscovering the joy clothes and accessories can bring.
With the sun making a more regular appearance, now’s the time to truly embrace the fashion trends for 2022. With something to suit every taste and shape, this season really does have it all. When it comes to new season trends, the trick is to work out which styles you can weave into your existing capsule wardrobe. This helps to refresh your wardrobe essentials, such as your best blazer, and give them a directional feel. With a busy summer ahead, that’s hopefully packed full of occasions and travel, our best loungewear has finally been relegated and we’re excited about the wave of newness that has swept both designer and straight-to-market brands.
Katie Eastwood, stylist ambassador at online personal styling service Stitch Fix, is expecting big things for the trends 2022, “We’re going to be seeing lots of extreme lengths; whether that be maxi or midi, metallics, bold colors, or low waists—in 2022 it’s definitely a case of ‘more is more’.”
From the mood-boosting brights of dopamine dressing to lashings of embellishment and craft-inspired fringing and crochet details, the top fashion trends 2022 are a celebration of life and fashion. Get ready to reset your wardrobe.
Fashion trends 2022 to shop now
Most of the styles you’ll be seeing in stores filter down from the runways and the fashion trends 2022 can only be described as a downpour of maximalist looks.
From London to Paris, whether you’re loving British clothing brands such as Burberry or French clothing brands such as Chanel, the SS22 runways were filled with creative and bright color clothing, something that has been lacking from our closets for the last couple of years. The one question that remains, after dressing down for so long is: do we dare to wear them?
“Remember you don’t have to recreate an exact outfit seen on the models”, says Paula. “The fashion shows are there to inspire you, so take pieces from the looks you like best and weave them into your existing wardrobe subtly at first.”
It is thought this new wave of bold dressing has come about as a result of the pandemic, which designers have used to flex their creative muscles. “Trends often come through as a reaction to these political, social and economic issues.” says Katie, “The bold, extravagant pieces we are seeing across the 2022 runways are most likely a reaction to restraints we’ve all been under as a result of the pandemic.
By celebrating the bold, the colorful, and all that sparkles, designers are offering a form of escapism, allowing people to embrace something positive through their aesthetic.”
Consider your options carefully, and think wisely about what you buy. StitchFix has found that 83{a0ae49ae04129c4068d784f4a35ae39a7b56de88307d03cceed9a41caec42547} of its customers want to buy fewer, more quality items in a bid to become more conscious shoppers. Move away from the ‘wear once’ culture by using this to guide your style, opting for pieces you’ll learn to love and will wear time and time again in various outfits and iterations. You can also investigate the best sustainable clothing brands, that consciously design fashion-forward pieces that have a lower environmental impact. And if you want to fund your new wardrobe, why not learn how to sell your clothes online and swap out the old for the new.
Here are the biggest fashion trends to snap up in 2022.
1. TOP-TO-TOE COLOUR
Forget tan, neutrals, or classic creams, the fashion color trends 2022, is all about color. Models walking for Christian Dior and Versace were seen in top-to-toe brights that really make a statement. “The Queen has been color blocking for years, now it’s time for us all to boost our mood with bold hues,” says woman&home fashion director, Paula Moore. “Start with a bright accessory, such as shoes or a bag, and add this to a look you’re comfortable in.”
From this point, you get more confident, she explains, “You can build up to a whole look easily. Fuchsia pink and Kermit-the-frog green compliment all skin tones, so why not try a suit that will take you from day to night effortlessly.”
WHAT TO BUY
Bold shoes and bags: Ease into the trend with color-pop heels or attention-grabbing arm candy. They will instantly brighten up a little black dress or add some interest to your jeans. If you really want to branch out, try clashing the colors as well. Blues and greens or oranges and pinks are great together. Check out the best handbag trends for 2022 for some added accessory inspiration.
Boxy suits: The key to a good suit is all in the fit. A pair of wide-leg trousers cinch in the waist and skim over thighs—simply tuck in a slim-fit top, add a boxy blazer and you’ll feel empowered in seconds. Take a look at our guide to what color suits me to work out which shade is best for you.
Smock frocks: There is nothing easier than a throw-on-and-go dress. If you can bag a smock-frock in a bright color then you’ve nailed the trend without even trying. All you need is to add boots and you’re good to go.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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Zara High Heeled Satin Mule
RRP: $69.90 / £49.99 | These purple satin-style mules give a nod to the 90s and we’re in love. The sculptural heel keeps them bang on trend too. Jazz up your jeans or experiment with color clashing and team with the best pink dresses.
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M&S Short Sleeve Collared Shirt
RRP: $42.50 / £25 | Great for summer workwear, this short sleeve, collard shirt will have you looking smart whilst staying comfortable. Style with tailored trousers for the office or with linen drawcord trousers for the weekend or vacation.
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Honorine Elodie Midi Dress
RRP: $337 / £310 | A hot pink frock is a must-have this summer, guaranteed to steal all the attention. This has a tiered skirt and puff sleeves for a feminine boho vibe that’s ideal when deciding what to wear to a bridal shower.
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Boden Stitch Crossbody Bag
RRP: $150 / £98 | Have a bit of fun with your handbag and opt for one of the best crossbody bags from Boden. With contrast stitching, it’s just the right size to fit the essentials and is great for ensuring you can enjoy your day hands-free.
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Mango Cotton Culotte Trousers
RRP: $59.99 / £35.99 | Kermit the frog green is one of the biggest color trends this season, making these tailored culottes bang on trend. Ideal for smarter summer occasions, pair with one of your best shirts and some comfortable flats.
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Oliver Bonas Ochre Skirt
RRP: $87 / £59.90 | This gorgeous pleated midi skirt from Oliver Bonas can be dressed up or down, styling with t-shirts or blouses depending on the occasion. We love the comfort fit, elasticated waist, great for unseemingly hot summer days.
2. FRINGING DETAILS
With its tassels, crochet, and slouchy fits, this trend has a more bohemian feel – just dream of your summer holidays, wearing chunky sandals and a fringed outfit that moves in the gentle sea breeze, and you’ve got the idea. All you need to accessorize is a cocktail.
Fringing is actually easy to wear and very flattering – choose pieces where it falls cleverly over any areas you’re a little self-conscious of, and it will take your look to a new level. Saisangeeth Daswani, head of advisory at trends intelligence agency Stylus, saw this one coming. “With digital taking over our day-to-day lives, we expect that consumers will have a continued desire for touch-and-feel in fashion,” she explains. “Tactile surfaces have become key, offering a new way for consumers to engage with products.”
WHAT TO BUY
Maxi dresses: The long-line dress is always a winner in our eyes as it means limited leg-shaving. Aside from that, it’s also super flattering. Any styles with tassels in earthy tones will ensure your summer look is at the top of the style ladder.
Crochet tops: Open-knit tops are going to be big news this season. Try to find a style that has extra fringing at the bottom that will fall over your hips. Wear with a slim-fit midi skirt or chinos for a look that oozes style prowess.
Beach bags: The best beach bags and the most spacious tote bags this season have all been treated to the fringing treatment. Look for open crochet knits and OTT tassel embellishments to add an instant and easy spring twist to your look.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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Free People Crochet Halter Top
RRP: $148 / £140 | Crochet and fringing, this top ticks all the boxes. Whether you’re hitting the festival circuit or lounging on a hammock in the garden, this is made for carefree days. Team with denim jeans or shorts.
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Mango Fringed Handbag
RRP: $49.99 / £29.99 | Ease yourself into the trend with a cool fringed bag that will elevate the simplest of looks. We love the vibrant green and blue hues on this beauty. Wear with everything this summer.
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Jonathan Simkhai Kamilah Dress
RRP: $545 / £539 | A crochet dress is a worthy addition to your holiday wardrobe taking you from beach to bar. Layer over your best swimsuit and finish with gladiator sandals, a key shoe trend 2022. The color means it’ll go with everything.
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Karen Millen Fringe Skirt
RRP: $238 / £139 | Embrace this artisanal trend with delicately crafted designs and fringed pieces. With a nod to runway styles, this standout skirt can take you from beach to bar and even answers what to wear on a first date.
Sandro Fringe Midi Dress
RRP: $370 / £279 | Treat yourself to a new LBD (little black dress). The fringing makes this style ideal for dancing as the movement will ensure you stand out from the crowd. Team with some simple strappy sandals.
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Dune Lemoney Sandals
RRP: $99 / £75 | Offering a splash of color to your summer wardrobe, these lemon ombre sandals bring a fun feel to proceedings. Ideal for jazzing up jeans and t-shirts or teaming with a floaty maxi dress as you stroll along the promonade.
3. SEQUINS AND SHIMMER
Sequins aren’t just for Christmas. You can shimmer any month of the year, so take inspiration from Chanel and Valentino and introduce everyday sparkle into your closet. Ideal for what to wear to a wedding this summer, after a rather stop-start season the last couple of years, it’s time to party in style (and glitter).
Whether it’s a show-stopping dress or a chic two-piece, sequins in spring will certainly get rid of any winter blues. But sequins in spring aren’t the same as at Christmas. “I love sparkle, but the key is to keep accessories to a minimum”, says Paula. “If you wear a standout piece, avoid overwhelming the look with lots of jewelry or prints. Let the clothes do the talking.”
WHAT TO BUY
Sequined blazers: The easiest way to include shimmering fabrics is in the form of a blazer. The smart cover-up never goes out of style, and if you bag one made from sequins then you can immediately elevate any look.
Wide-leg trousers: The trend for wide strides was big for AW21 and we are thrilled to see it continue into 2022. A flattering fit, they provide a clever way to dress down sequins. Just add your best white t-shirt to black sequin trousers and you’ve got a strong everyday outfit.
Slip dresses: A slinky slip dress in a satin fabric can be a little clingy, but cover the cut in sequins, and suddenly it’s a lot more wearable. Look for midi styles that you can wear with comfortable flats, such as ballet pumps or slides. You can also add the best shapewear for a more sculpted silhouette.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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River Island Sequin Midi Dress
RRP: $248 / £150 | Looking for a dress with that wow factor? Look no further. This color block design has a bodycon fit to show off your curves and a split hem for easy movement. Keep the rest of your look simple – just add a pair of barely-there sandals.
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Ted Baker Sequin Frill Top
RRP: $295 / £225 | This is a real showstopper shirt with frill detailing, voluminous sleeves and party sequins. The high neckline gives it extra style kudos. Keep the rest of your outfit pared-back – team with tailored trousers or jeans and let the blouse sing.
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Aggi Silver Ombre Sequin Blazer
RRP: $413 / £375 | With a cool silver and pink ombre design this is a wardrobe winner.The long length and accentuated shoulders offer a retro ’80s-inspired finish and make it ideal for balancing out pear body shapes. Layer over your LBD or your everyday denim.
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Zara Sequin Ruched Midi Skirt
RRP: $69.90 / £49.99 | Ruched designs are a flattering silhouette, as the drape across the body skims silhouettes. This cute sequin skirt will glide over hips and can be dressed up to party or dressed down with a tee and Converse.
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Stories Pink Sequin Shirt
RRP: $69 / £55 | Don’t fear cropped blouses and tees. If you don’t want to bare your midriff, wear these items over sleeveless slip dresses or with high waisted skirts or trousers to bridge the gap but still embrace the style.
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Kurt Geiger Crossbody Bag
RRP: $161.24 / £150 | Featuring Kurt Geiger’s statement eagle-head clasp this yellow-gold sequin clutch is one to get the party started. The Kensington is now a style staple for the brand, reinvented in new colors and fabrications seasonally.
4. MAXI VS MINI
The good old midi skirt has reigned supreme for the last few years, but it’s been ousted from the top spot this season—as we said from the outset, the fashion trends 2022 are all about extremes.
You’re going to have to decide if you’re Team Mini or Team Maxi this year (although we’re sorry to break it to you, it’s actually the micro-mini making its way into the mainstream). We know it’s not an easy thought to have a lot of leg on show, but if you’ve been trying to work out how to style knee-high boots, the mini-skirt is the ideal companion.
If you’re more of a maxi woman, then we’re talking retro tube fits that finish close to the ankle, rather than the A-line hippie style we’ve been used to in seasons gone by. Think of a slinky, full-length look rather than voluminous fabric. If that sounds a bit constricting, remember: a subtle split offers more movement.
WHAT TO BUY
Mini dresses: There’s no need to immediately be put off—there is no age limit when it comes to style, it’s all about how you wear it and when you feel most confident. With a mini dress, try adding boots if you’re self-conscious about showing too much skin or keep your neckline high to balance shorter skirt hemlines.
Tube maxi skirts: Look for skirts that finish at the ankle but that offer a more streamlined fit. Designs that sit at the waist will help to elongate your legs. Try subtle splits that finish at the knee to help the fabric float as you walk—it’ll be more comfortable too.
Ribbed tops: Fitted tops with long-line skirts will give you an hourglass figure in seconds. If you’re used to looser styles, this is the perfect time to learn how to wear shapewear. Wearing shapewear underneath a fitted top will help smooth your figure, creating an effortless look for spring.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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& Other Stories Shirt Mini Dress
RRP: $89 / £65 | The shirt style keeps this looking polished and the sleeves help to offset the shorter hem. There’s a flattering tie detail to cinch you in at the waist too. Team with other neutrals or add pops of neon to liven it up.
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Jacquemus Maxi Tube Skirt
RRP: $535 / £335 | We love the sunset hue on this long skirt. It has a figure-hugging fit that will show off your shape and the stretchy fabric keeps it easy to move in. Pair with a crisp white blouse and gold jewellery for a glamorous getup.
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Massimo Dutti Abstract Dress
RRP: $179 / £149 | The abstract print is a nice change from go-to prints such as florals and the cami design makes it easy to dress up or down all year round. Layer over a t-shirt for extra coverage or wear alone for an elegant evening look.
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Me & Em Cheesecloth Dress
RRP: $265 / £150 | White dresses are the perfect signaller that warmer weather is on the horizon. This tiered, cheese-cloth maxi dress features a relaxed, A-line fit that will casually skim the silhouette keeping you cool on long summer days.
Marina Rinaldi Purple Maxi Skirt
RRP: $425 / £250 | Rinaldi is renowned for making some of the best plus size clothing and this skirt with a rainbow waistband is a fun way to embrace the maxi skirt trend this season. Tuck your top in to reclaim your curves.
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Boden Paneled Mini Skirt
RRP: $98 / £75 | Also available in a petite fit, this punchy red A-line, linen skirt is ready for fun summer days. An ideal pairing for how to wear Vans, we love the almost sporty feel to this look. Team with a classic Breton top for nautical style.
5. BOLD STRIPES
Read between the lines this season and embrace bold, defined stripes. There were no pinstripes in sight on the runways at Jil Sander or Tory Burch; here, wide stripes took the style crown.
“The striped jumper was a sell-out in winter and the look has made its way into 2022,” says Paula. “Remember vertical stripes lengthen your figure and can be slimming. Pastel colors are gorgeous for spring, so give these a go, and a classic Breton is my go-to t-shirt all year round.”
If you opt for monochrome stripes, accessorize with color to pack a real punch.
WHAT TO BUY
Matching co-ords: Get three looks for the price of one in a matching co-ord. Wear the top and bottom together as one complete look, or separately for extra versatility.
Breton tops: Let’s be honest, we all love a Breton top. Super easy to wear and effortlessly stylish, the humble horizontal fisherman’s stripe is a must-have. This season, try to mix up the colors and move away from white and navy.
Diagonal stripes: Experiment with the direction of your stripes. While vertical stripes are notoriously slimming, horizontal stripes don’t automatically widen you. Try layering pieces and play with proportions by adding diagonal stripes into the mix.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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Boden Puff Sleeve Frill Neck T-Shirt
RRP: $50 / £35 | A Breton tee but not as you know it. The frilly neckline gives the classic piece a feminine update that’s great for layering too. We love the bold red hue for a pop of color and the loose, relaxed shape.
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Mango Striped Jumpsuit with Belt
RRP: $99 / £59.99 | Fully embrace the bold stripes trend in this flattering jumpsuit. It has diagonal stripes for a fresh update and the flowy fabric keeps it relaxed and elegant. There’s a coordinating belt for added structure.
Sandro Striped Linen Shorts
RRP: $245 / £179 | For easy breezy summer dressing, these striped shorts are top of our list. Wear with the matching shirt for a bolder look or team with a plain white tank to keep it more refined, a versatile addition to your closet.
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LK Bennett Striped Platform Heels
RRP: $330 / £279 | Embrace statement stripes with one of Kate Middleton’s favorite shoe brands, LK Bennett. Our place to head for what to wear to the races, these striking shoes will look great with your best floral midi dresses.
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Whistles Striped Canvas Tote Bag
RRP: $169 / £85 | We can’t resist a canvas tote, better than using plastic bags for our shopping this fun striped iteration features a nifty front zipped pocket, ideal for stashing items you need access to quickly. We love the colorway too.
6. CUT-OUTS
We can feel you rolling your eyes, but stick with us on this one. We know the idea of cut-out sections of clothes can be daunting, but while the catwalks might have shown a whole load of flesh, you can do it the subtle way. Promise!
“There’s no need to shy away from this trend completely,” says Paula. “A little goes a long way and even a small slash in the fabric at your waist can offer more movement in the fabric and highlight your smallest part.” Think keyhole details, open backs, and cold-shoulder tops that expose a little flesh without you feeling like all your lumps and bumps are on show.
Sheer fabrics were also big this season so bag a top with transparent sleeves for another way to wear this look.
WHAT TO BUY
Keyhole blouses: A less intimidating way to embrace cut-outs is with keyhole detailing. Whether it’s at the chest or on the back, a simple circle exposing a little skin is easy to pull off.
Open-back dresses: This style can be a problem if wearing a bra is essential, but there are also lots of exposed backs that finish just above where your bra strap lies. Look for fun prints, loose fits, and experiment with underwear.
Cotton pants: If your top half has a little flesh on show, offset the exposure by teaming with a pair of loose-fit trousers. A cool, cotton pair in black or tan are comfortable as well as stylish.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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H&M Printed Open Back Dress
RRP: $39.99 / £29.99 | Looking way more expensive than the price tag suggests. The midi-length keeps it cool and elegant, while the cut-out detail adds a dose of drama to the back. Style with your best sandals for a summer party..
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Karen Millen Keyhole Blouse
RRP: $110 / £65 | Ease yourself into the cut-out trend with this printed blouse. With keyhole detailing at the back, it flashes a hint of flesh whilst offering plenty of coverage. The floral print really packs a punch too and gives a nod to the ’70s.
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& Other Stories Midi Dress
RRP: $119 / £85 | Nail two trends in one with this vibrant green frock. The sleek cut-out detail on the sides highlights the waist before flaring out into an a-line skirt for a flattering silhouette. One you can reach for on those ‘nothing to wear’ days.
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H&M Cut-Out Tailored Trousers
RRP: $29.99 / £19.99 | A more unusual look, these cropped green trousers feature small cut-outs at the waist. To keep the look more modest, pair with a bodysuit in a neutral hue so that flashes through instead of your thighs.
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Sandro Woven Midi Skirt
RRP: $193 / £179 | We love this black midi skirt with a twist. Easy to dress up or down, team with a half-tucked blouse or fitted t-shirt for maximum style points. You could even wear it over your swimwear for a beach to bar look.
7. THE ’00s
We know it feels as if the Noughties only just happened, but it’s been long enough for the turn-of-the-century styles to return to the runway. We’re turning to the nostalgic era of double denim, satin joggers, and chokers. Yes, really.
It can be difficult to embrace trends from years gone by without feeling as though you’re playing dress-up, but this season takes small nods from the decade rather than wearing it from head to toe.
For example, be inspired by famed denim duo Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears, and match your blue jeans with fitted shirts. Or swap your best leggings for a dressier, satin pair of lounge pants.
WHAT TO BUY
Faded denim: To execute this trend perfectly, you need to swap your jeans for the kind of denim that already looks as though it’s lived a very full life. Faded or stonewash is ideal but darker shades work too. Then for added points, double it up, pairing with a denim shirt or denim jacket.
Slinky satin: Any satin will work wonderfully but if you really want to amp up the ’00s aesthetic then go for pink or bold colors. Keep an eye on fabrics though, as some satin can end up looking a little cheap.
3/4-length boots: While the cowboy boot is once again reigning supreme, any 3/4 winter boot will work—you can wear them with everything from the best midi dresses to over your jeans.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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All Saints Address Charlie Denim Jacket
RRP: $249 / £149 | The best denim jackets are a summer staple adding a cool twist to any look. This jacket is cut to a relaxed silhouette in a light blue wash for that lived-in look. For added detail, it has the brand’s signature address stamped on the back too.
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Mint Velvet Khaki Satin Cargo Joggers
RRP: $129 / £79 | Is anything more early noughties than some cargo trousers? The silky fabric make these feel extra luxe and the elasticated waist keeps them super comfy too. A smart choice for those work from home days, just add a black tee.
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Juicy Couture Kendall Shoulder Bag
RRP: $108 / £95 | When in doubt, start with an accessory and a baguette bag is the ’00s purse that has exploded back onto the market. With snazzy sequinned embellishment and the iconic Juicy Couture logo, it’s got Y2K party bag written all over it.
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River Island Low Rise Flared Jeans
RRP: $78 / £42 | A universally flattering fit, flares elongate pins and balance out hips with ease. This low-rise design conjures up all the ’00s feels. A tricky shape to wear due to the short rise, they won’t offer midriff or bum support or sculpt.
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Free People Cowl Tank Top
RRP: $38 / £32 | A cowl neck is synonymous with the ’00s and while this look had fallen out of fashion it is such a flattering silhouette for all body types. Flattering fuller busts and adding curves to smaller busts, it’s an easy summer, style staple.
8. Elevated shapes
Go big or go home with this larger-than-life trend. Trapeze dresses have been rising up the fashion ranks for a while now, the total opposite of bodycon, this aesthetic is both comfortable and stylish—winning. A statement look, all it needs is a pair of simple gold hoops—check out our round-up of the best jewelry brands for inspiration—and add some sleek mules or your best white trainers.
And this isn’t just a spring fashion trend either, making this a solid investment buy that you can wear now and later in the year too. Looking forward to the Fall catwalks, we’re also seeing floor-sweeping maxi skirts in flattering a-line shapes as spotted at Carolina Herrera. Offset the voluminous shape and wear with fitted tees and tucked-in shirts that show off your waist for a flattering ladylike silhouette.
WHAT TO BUY
Trapeze dresses: A giant dress that drapes effortlessly over your figure, with zero nipped-in waist, this silhouette is cool and comfy and one of the most stylish dresses to hide a tummy. A good choice for summer—especially if you look for cotton or linen fabrics—this easy breezy style makes a statement whilst looking effortless too. If you’re looking for the best petite dresses in a trapeze shape, opt for shorter styles to avoid swamping your figure, taller frames can get away with maxi lengths.
A-line skirts: Take inspo from Carolina Herrera and go for this fit and flare style for a ’50s inspired silhouette. Shorten the hem and go for midi lengths if a maxi length feels too overwhelming and stick to block colors. Pink is one to look for if you want to be ahead of the curve.
Pared-back accessories: Whether that’s a slip-on mule or a sporty sandal, this trend is attention-grabbing as it is, so accessories need to be unfussy and minimal.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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United Colors of Benetton Long Flared Dress
RRP: $94 / £59.95 | This 100{a0ae49ae04129c4068d784f4a35ae39a7b56de88307d03cceed9a41caec42547} cotton dress will keep you cool on warm sunny days and this sun-drenched hue is a real mood-booster. Wear with sporty sandals for a laidback weekend look.
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Me + Em Color Block Pink Wide-Leg Track Pant
RRP: $325 / £185 | Play with proportions and opt for super wide-leg trousers. These have a leg-lengthening side stripe for a sporty twist and a nifty hem vent so you can flash your shoes.
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Phase Eight Pink and Green Printed Dobby Skirt
RRP: $120 / £75 | This statement skirt is a must-have for special occasions. The pretty A-line shape will create a flattering hourglass body shape. We love the pink and green combo too.
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New Look Floaty Shorts
RRP: $25.99 / £19.99 | Go big with your shorts and opt for this floaty New Look pair in baby blue. With an almost culotte-style finish, it even has a matching blazer to render it occasion-ready.
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Coast Organza Puff-Sleeved Blouse
RRP: £59.00 (UK only) | Embrace sheer fabrics this season. If you’re not ready to flash your best bralette, wear this blouse with a camisole underneath, to get the effect without the flesh.
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Ted Baker Puffball Skirt
RRP: $260 / £150 | Ted Baker knows how to do occasionwear and this white and blue combination will ensure you’re one of the best-dressed guest, whatever the party is this summer.
9. Animal prints
Not exactly groundbreaking, we know but animal print—in particular leopard print—never fails to make an appearance on the runways and 2022 is no exception. Certainly, one of the most instantly wearable trends to adopt, animal print is a timeless classic that will work with everything in your wardrobe.
So, how to wear this fashion trend in 2022? Get ahead of the fashion game and take inspiration from the Fall 2022 catwalks and look to eighties-inspired silhouettes. Think shoulder pads, mini skirts and a party-ready aesthetic. Nail two trends in one and reach for sequinned animal prints to really up the ante.
WHAT TO BUY
Printed co-ord: You can be as bold as you like with an animal print co-ord. Wear all together for a statement look or mix and match with your wardrobe basics for a more lowkey vibe. Whatever you decide to do, the outfit opportunities will be endless
Neon accessories: The whole ‘leopard print is a neutral’ has long been a mantra amongst the fashion elite and it’s certainly worth adopting. A vibrant green bag or hot pink shoe will really pop against leopard print for a glamorous evening look.
Sequins: Tap into that eighties aesthetic and add some sequins to your animal print. If you can’t find any embellished print—add your own. Layer a sequin blazer over a leopard print dress or team a sequin skirt with a zebra print shirt.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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M&S Leopard Maxi Skirt
RRP: $60 / £35 | You’ll feel ready for anything in this flowy, pleated, leopard print maxi skirt. A neutral according to the style set, fashion’s favorite print will always be our go-to.
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Ganni Tailored Midi Dress
RRP: $325 / £225 | Ganni are masters of the statement print frock and this one is top of our wishlist. The timeless print is given a fresh look with an oversized collar and balloon sleeves.
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Mint Velvet Animal Satin Jacket
RRP: $209 / £129 | Add some luxe to your loungewear with this satin jacket. Layer over a simple white summer dress or double up and team with the matching joggers for a bold coord.
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Mango Snake Print Shirt
RRP: $79.99 / £49.99 | Snake print has slowly edged its way onto the fashion print seen and this simple, crossover style blouse is a great way to wear the trend. Wear with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt for a smart, work update.
Next Leopard Print Tote Bag
RRP: $58 / £38 | If you’re looking for one of the best totes that won’t go out of style, then a large leopard print bag is a strong investment. A timeless and simplistic design you can use this bag every day or as a stylish plane carry-on.
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Karen Millen Zebra Knit Cardigan
RRP: $214 / £125 | Zebra might not have garnered the same success as snake or leopard print but its classic monochromatic coloring still makes this a strong statement look that can stand the test of time. We love the cropped fit too.
10. Ruffles and frills
Romantic and frivolous, ruffles give any outfit a playful, feminine touch. Usually reserved for the summer months, ruffles made several appearances on the Fall runways too, proving they’re here for the long run.
“Ruffles and frills add texture and interest to the simplest of outfits and can be super flattering too. Choose carefully where to place your ruffles—a frilly skirt can help balance proportions or a ruffle blouse can add volume to smaller busts,” explains Paula.
Take note from Molly Goddard and render it cold-weather ready by teaming a girly tulle skirt with chunky fair isle knits for a pretty meets practical look.
WHAT TO BUY
Ruffle blouse: From broderie anglaise to floral prints, the easiest way to inject this trend into your wardrobe is with a ruffle blouse. Wear with your favorite jeans or denim cutoffs in the summer for a weekend look that oozes romance.
Tulle skirt: Whether you’re embracing your inner ballerina or trying to learn how to dress like Carrie Bradshaw, the tulle skirt is feminine and flamboyant and you’re guaranteed to feel fabulous wearing one. Give it a grown-up rebellious edge and wear it with your best leather jacket or stompy boots.
Chunky knitwear: Give this look daytime appeal and team frilly dresses and skirts with your best sweaters. Think cable-knit cardigans and fair isle knits for a look that will see you through the winter months too.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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Hush Floriza Ruffled Midi Skirt
RRP: $155 / £99 | We are seriously obsessed with this frilly and frivolous skirt. Crafted from mesh jersey made from recycled materials, it’s got sustainable credentials too. Balance proportions and team with a fitted tee.
Sezane Ezecquiel Blouse
RRP: $125 / £95 | Embrace that chic French style in this gorgeous ruffle blouse. It has a romantic square neckline and gathered ruffles. Details are key and there’s a sweet button detailing at the back too.
Maje Printed Cotton Voile Dress
RRP: $415 / £299 | Oooze summer romance in this stunning ruffled midi dress. Featuring a cute ditsy floral print, it has a flattering V-neckline and adjustable straps so you can find the perfect fit. Pack in your suitcase immediately!
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New Look Ruffle Jumpsuit
RRP: $42 / £33.99 | Scuba fabric behaves like some of the best plus size shapewear in that it sculpts and smooths a silhouette. The deep ruffled front will draw the eye down, elongating your frame, while the flared leg balances proportions.
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The Kooples Silk Ruffle Top
RRP: $268 / £198 | A peplum ruffle is ideal for highlighting curves. This The Kooples top will nip you in at the waist, while the puff sleeve head will balance out fuller hips. The gently skirted ruffle peplum enhances hourglass silhouettes too.
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& Other Stories Ruffle Blouse
RRP: $89 / £65 | Ruffled blouses continue to be a major trend and this summery iteration in pretty pale blue is ideal for teaming with your favorite denim this summer. From high-waisted jeans to denim A-line skirts, it will go with them all.
11. Sportswear
No longer a fashion fad, sportswear has well and truly cemented itself into our everyday wardrobes and it shows no signs of slowing down. The Roksanda catwalk paved the way with its collaboration with Italian clothing brand Fila featuring puffed-up silhouettes and statement branding.
If you’re hitting the slopes this month, newbie Poster Girl showcased an apres-ski-inspired runway show with sporty sunglasses, knitted balaclavas, and furry snow boots.
“Make this trend more wearable and team ski-like bomber jackets with your wardrobe basics. Or just ease yourself in gently with sporty sunglasses,” says Paula.
Play with proportions and wear fitted leggings or your best skinny jeans with oversized quilted silhouettes to avoid swamping your figure.
WHAT TO BUY
Logos: Another trend that taps into that Y2K vibe is logo-embellished clothing, in particular retro branding. From sportswear to the best designer bags, it’s time to shout about who you are wearing. Look for logo sweaters and leggings.
Quilted clothing: One of the best winter coats, puffer jackets get a spring trends update this season with lighter layers of padding for those cooler spring days. As well as jackets, quilted textures are cropping up on accessories too so you’ll be able to rock a padded tote bag all through summer too.
Sporty sunglasses: Now’s the time to snap up some of the best sunglasses with a sporty twist. The futuristic wrap-around style looks great with more polished clothing —try teaming with some smart suiting or a blazer and leggings.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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Quay Australia Ombre Sunglasses
RRP: $65 / £49 | These sleek shield sunnies are a stylish finishing touch to your summer getup. Available in an array of colorways, you’ll be able to find a pair to match any outfit. A flattering shape on round faces if you’re wondering what sunglasses suit me.
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H&M Blue Wavy Quilted Jacket
RRP: $59.99 / £39.99 | Quilted jackets are not just for winter you know and this lighter iteration will work for those chillier evenings too. It has an oversized fit so easy for layering and it’s cleverly crafted from recycled materials. A bargain buy you’ll wear all year round.
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Adidas Adicolor Cropped Hoodie
RRP: $65 / £50 | Add a sporty twist to the best midi dresses and skirts with this cropped hoodie. Featuring the brand’s iconic logo and three-stripe detail, it has a relaxed fit for a casual feel. The cropped length will highlight a waist. Team with high-waisted trousers.
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Victoria Beckham Sweatshirt
RRP: $188 / £152 | The Reebok x Victoria Beckham collaboration has been around for several seasons. Giving your gym wardrobe a sports-luxe twist, expect sweatshirts with a more directional feel.
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Veja V-12 Low Top White Sneakers
RRP: $140 / £123 | A fantastic sustainable brand it’s no wonder that Veja has garnered fans amongst both the fashion set and Royalty. We love the pastel blue logo, a classic white trainer with a twist.
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Mango Textured Joggers
RRP: $59.99 / £35.99 | The best joggers are always welcome in our wardrobe and this sporty pair can be dressed up for work or evenings out. The elastic waistband offers some much-welcomed comfort.