There are some microtrends that are so clickbaity, so purposefully created for the internet and social media feeds, that they die out before they've even had much of a chance to reach a wider audience. It's probably for the best, as many of Instagram or TikTok's most "liked" items can be hugely unrealistic for day-to-day wear. These contributing factors explain why the term microtrend has become something of a dirty one among fashion lovers who like to consume more consciously, and so we use it carefully.
The way we think of microtrends is more about the subtler pieces, prints, colours, outfit combinations and accessories that are on the rise, destined for fashion fame but with the chance to actually work both IRL and for the long run. This is all about mini trends with staying power, and there are many I've spotted since the start of 2022.
This year's microtrends have their showy moments, but there are also signs of classics returning from the depths of wardrobes—a comeback for moto jackets has seen me rifling through a bag of old vintage pieces under my bed to rediscover a biker style I bought back in 2000. Twenty-two years later, it's unsurprisingly far too small, of course, but you get the idea. There are practical items: Enter stage left banana bags. And there are fun ones: Ever felt floral prints left you cold and you'd rather pull out something fruity for summer? Keep scrolling to see and shop the microtrends I've got bets on for 2022 and beyond.
1. ON THE TUBE
Style Notes: Printed tube dresses have been a mainstay in many a designer collection for some time now, but suddenly, they seem more present than ever, arriving in many colours, patterns, lengths and cuts to suit your personal style.
Style Notes: Vibrant mesh options have been particularly popular, as have more abstract prints.
Shop the trend:
I have a strong feeling this dress is going to be crazy-popular.
Yep, bandeaus are back.
2. CLOGS UP!
Style Notes: Birkenstock's Boston clogs are the kind of style that will trend hard for a moment but soon become a staple style many stylish people fall back on time and again.
Style Notes: Wooden-sole clogs are making a resurgence. This is one of the shoe trends that boomerang quite often, so it's never as wild an investment as you might think.
Shop the trend:
A classic.
Part "ugly" sandal, part clog. I'm into them.
3. MOTO JACKET
Style Notes: The spring and autumn runways are full of oversized biker jackets, so it's no wonder they've returned to the streets again.
Style Notes: According to Depop, searches for motorcycle racing jackets are up by 56% over the last three months. It's happening. Pair it with a simple tube skirt for a sleek look.
Shop the trend:
This will stay in your wardrobe for decades.
The ratings on Etsy for this are strong.
4. STRAWBERRIES AND…
Style Notes: Show me a print that screams summer louder than anything covered in strawberries. I'll wait.
Style Notes: We've even seen them cropping up on jewellery, which is adorable.
Shop the trend:
It's so cute.
Perfect way to have your five a day.
5. BANANA BAGS
Style Notes: COS's crossbody bag has been super popular for over a year now. It looks expensive and just works hard for that hands-free life.
Style Notes: This kind of slouchy banana style can be found everywhere, from The Row to the high street.
Shop the trend:
It comes in a chic chocolate brown now too!
The one and only.
6. PATTERNED HATS
Style Notes: If there's one item that will instantly add zing to your holiday packing plans, it's a bold fabric hat.
Style Notes: Yes, they're a statement, but find one that you love, and you'll wear it for many, many summers to come.
Shop the trend:
Such a joyful outfit topper.
This is going to be a cult fave this summer—mark my words.
7. PIXELATED PRINTS
Style Notes: There's a subtle undercurrent in the world of prints for blurry, photographic, pixelated prints. Last year's swirls and psychedelics are still going strong, but this is good if you want something quieter.
Style Notes: They have an artistic quality but also feel timeless rather than tied to a specific season, so you'll get more wear out of them.
Shop the trend:
Warehouse always does interesting prints.
So fun to throw over a bikini.
8. SCARF STYLING
Style Notes: Whether sarong, crop top, hair accessory or belt, I've seen a lot of creative scarf styling recently.
Style Notes: And naturally, Hermès's new scarf-tied sandals have been living in my mind rent-free.
Shop the trend:
Going straight into my suitcase.
An heirloom piece to treasure forever.
9. PLEATED SKIRTS
Style Notes: It started with Miu Miu's now-infamous micro, but pleated skirts have entered the chat in other forms—longer and more wearable ones. Phew.
Style Notes: The idea of a crop top and pleated skirt remains. Here's a more demure way to do it.
Shop the trend:
Short skirts tend to work best with low heels or flats.
Miu Miu's versions do come in longer lengths, too.
Next up, the best brands for wedding guest outfits.
