I've Already Tried On 10 of 2022's Biggest Trends—Here's What's Worth It

It may not be summer, but we can certainly dress like it. Okay, it might not exactly be bikini weather here in the UK, but we can look to next year’s biggest trends and start investing in pieces that will work hard in our wardrobes in the coming months and slot right into our spring/summer looks next year, too. 

Now, there are a lot of really fun trends for spring/summer 2022. To break it down, there is a divide between extreme minimalism (just think of the many monochromatic grids you will have seen whilst scrolling through your Instagram feed) versus the maximalism we also so very often see on some of our favourite influencers (especially in their Instagram Reels). From oversized suits to holiday dressing, I have handpicked my top 10 buys that tap into these key trends and that you can start wearing now. Yes, now. 

1. STRIPES

Style Notes: Stripes are synonymous with summer, but there is something fresh and modern about thin stripes, the sort often seen on men’s shirting, paired with the soft ice cream shades of pistachio and pink. Wear now with jeans then over a bikini when you hit the beach in the warmer months. 

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2. ELEVATED TRENCHES

Style Notes: A classic trench is a forever staple you will never tire of, but for S/S 22, trenches are anything but basic. Think cut-outs, leather detail, and embroidery. In fact, this one I spied in AllSaints is three-in-one that converts from a traditional trench to a sleeveless trench and a jacket, so you get more bang for your buck.

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3. PREPPY

Style Notes: The modern version of this trend forgoes all the prim connotations. Think clean lines and contrasting hemlines such as this Ganni dress I spotted in Liberty. This is one of those fab dresses you can wear no matter the season or the occasion. Simply dress it up or down.

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4. FRINGING

Style Notes: "Be extra” was one of my main takeaways from the S/S 22 runways, and after over a year and a half of lockdowns and restrictions, if I have an opportunity to leave the house, you can bet I’m dressing up and wearing fringing, sequins, the lot. I was super impressed with the fit of this dress and the weight of the fringing, which gave it a high-end feel.

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5. SPORTSLUXE

Style Notes: The traditional office job has changed shape over the past 18 months, so for me, this is what the power suit of 2022 looks like. Hinting to the sporty details so many designers showcased for S/S 22, this jumpsuit, together with the super-soft scuba jersey, structured shape and stirrups, made me feel I could take on the world. 

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6. OMBRÉ

Style Notes: If you can’t get to the sun, then bring the sunshine to you! Tie-dye prints, pastel shades and colourful denim all appeared on the runways, bringing hints of holiday lifestyle to the city. If this cardigan with detachable cuffs wasn’t cute enough, then check out these jeans that are pastel perfection—complete with ocean waves and sunsets on the knees. 

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7. BIG SUITS

Style Notes: An oversized blazer is a key pillar of a stylish wardrobe this winter, and as we move into next year, this trend is sticking around. Get ahead of the curve with this amazing suit from Whistles. The detailing is subtle but the jumbo cord and puff shoulders hint at the many ’70s influences we saw in next season’s collections. I was blown away by the cut of this suit. 

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8. SATURATED COLOURS

Style Notes: If you were excited by the brights you saw coming through this season, get ready for S/S 22! Saturated colours are in the spotlight, so think the brightest and most eye-catching shades you could want in your wardrobe. This knit is a no-brainer, as I can pair it with my existing winter tailoring and then contrast it with some of my other favourite brights come spring. 

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9. NIGHTIES

Style Notes: Lingerie-inspired dresses were a hit for S/S 22, but this doesn’t have to mean baring all. This slip dress from Zara has delicate ruching on the sides if you were to wear it alone, but teaming it with this unbuttoned cardigan means I can wear it all year round.

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10. SKIRT SUITS

Style Notes: ’90s skirt suits were a key focus on the Chanel runway for S/S 22—and for many other designers for that matter. This knitted set from Sandro is incredibly versatile, as both the jacket and skirt can be worn separately. Together, however, they create a standout look to wear now with tights. 

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Next Up, Spring/Summer 2022 Trends: The Only 17 Looks You Need to Know About