I am so excited about S/S 22’s fashion trends. The overarching mood was one of real optimism, but where the previous season perhaps went into overdrive with the desire (desperation?) to get dressed up for even the most low-key of weekly grocery shops, the outlook for S/S 22 is that there is a time and place to be extra fabulous but still a strong demand and a necessity for easy, simple, luxurious, gorgeous clothes and outfits you can fling on in a hurry. There are places to go, people to see and the many ensembles to suit. So while on the one hand there’s a very clear shift towards revealing, ultra-sassy, cut-to-here-and-slashed-to-there kind of dressing, there’s also a very chic, understated antithesis at play. It speaks to a modern shopper’s whims and natural inclination to change one’s mind. Some days you might channel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in a classic, all-beige get-up and others be more Dua Lipa in a rad minidress and stacked platforms. We are complex characters, and our wardrobes, and favourite brands, must keep up.
As Lianne Wiggins, head of womenswear at MATCHESFASHION, explains, we are living through “the anything-goes mood of now,” which means that the old tropes of things being “in” or “out” is in itself redundant. It means you can be as wild and adventurous as you like or as basic as can be. Sit in the middle? Me too. Every personal style can be catered for in the spring 2022 line-up.
Dries Van Noten S/S 22
It was invigorating and inspiring to see runway shows return (almost) to normal, and “fashion moments” were plentiful, playful, and highly shareable, and as such, a few went viral. Balenciaga’s Demna Gvasalia merged a runway and a fake movie premiere celebrity red carpet to celebrate the arrival of a new collection. In addition, the brand created a fashion take on a Simpsons episode. Gucci took over Hollywood with runway chocked with high-profile friends of the brand in extravagant costume-inspired pieces that wouldn’t look out of place in a 1940s blockbuster. Chanel’s ’90s supermodel–inspired collection saw endless Instagram posts capturing sashaying models in monochromatic bikinis. Fashion fun was clearly back on the menu, and it was served up for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Tom Ford alluded to a theory behind the more outré collections when he told Vogue Runway how Instagram has changed the game and made many people focus on how clothes translate into imagery, saying, “Photogenic clothes today by their very nature mean that they are not at all timid,” and he was one of many designers to dive head first into loud colours, revealing cuts and high-shine finishes, all of which live very comfortably on screens and in a digital world of dress-up. In fact, one could draft the following as the blueprint for S/S 22’s more showy half: Loud! Bright! Daring! Revealing! If it’s not turning heads or garnering likes, it’s clearly not extra enough.
Elleme S/S 22
As influential as runways are, trends are not solely born on them. There was a clear direction coming from Gen Z and their social media platform of choice—TikTok—to be seen across the shows in New York, London, Milan and Paris. Youth is still currency in fashion circles but not necessarily in the same way as before: You don’t have to be young to be hip, but you sure as hell can steal the outfit ideas and reference points of a younger generation. Nineties, noughties and even the 2010s have been plundered for inspiration, with many looks echoing the fashion choices shared on the likes of both TikTok and the coolest Depop resellers’ accounts. No brand did it more authentically than Blumarine: The brand was known for its kitsch-cool back in the day, and now the look is ironically reflective of the archive. Looking for that denim butterfly top you owned in ’99? Or how about those low-slung Miss Sixty–esque jeans? This brand is the ringleader for every person aspiring to that aesthetic and with unashamed dedication, too.
But there’s more! So much more, which is why we couldn’t narrow it down to a main trend or two but instead have found 17 key looks, pieces, details and ideas that create the most important trends for spring 2022. Keep scrolling to see what’s hot for the season ahead.
L–R: Valentino, Proenza Schouler, Saint Laurent, Valentino. “Bold, brave brights are here to stay as we continue to embrace fantasy fashion and experiment with eclectic colours and unique prints more than ever before,” says Libby Page, senior market editor at NET-A-PORTER, noting that it’s these vibrant clothes that make consumers feel good from the inside out. “We’re of course backing anything with a positive and adventurous approach.” And it’s no wonder the buyers are keen to get involved, as the retail results back up the investment. This year, NET-A-PORTER has seen phenomenal increases YoY on sales of brightly coloured goods, with green being really driven up by bags and, specifically, the influence of Bottega Veneta’s Kermit-green styles, like the crazy-popular Jodie bag.
Bottega Veneta Salon 02. Kayla Marci, market analyst at retail intelligence platform EDITED, explains that the desire is already very much there on a wider scale too: “Across U.S. and UK mass-market brands, bright tones have shifted from pink to green as the top invested colour. Green apparel online has grown 28%, while orange is up 15% and pink and yellow both up 5% YoY.”
Alexander McQueen . MATCHESFASHION has also experienced an increase in consumers buying into bright pieces, with colour-pop styles up YoY by 45%. “Essentially, using bold colour without any specific trends or rules,” is the way Wiggins interpreted the shows. “At Valentino, there was such a strong mix of colour and looks—we saw relaxed denim with amazing flats and interesting tops alongside uplifting party dresses, which sums up the anything-goes mood of now.”
L–R: Jil Sander, Albus Lumen, Altuzarra, Peter Do. On the other end of the colour spectrum and sitting in a far quieter zone is a rise in interesting, ultra-luxe but ultimately very wearable wardrobe staples. This doesn’t translate as boring, and I’m not talking about basic tees that cost a fortune, more low-key staples with interesting twists: a trench coat with a unique label, a co-ord set with quirky buttons, a pair of tailored trousers in a more unusual silky-satin finish. The leading shopping app, LYST, is expecting this trend to really resonate with consumers heading into 2022: “As the fashion world awaits for Phoebe Philo’s return, we expect to see an increasing demand for minimalistic pieces. Since September, we’ve seen a rise in searches for monochromatic co-ords (+33%), neutral tones (+22%), white shirts (+41%), leather loafers (+57%) and wide-leg suit trousers (+55%), all reflecting a move towards a more low-key luxury approach.”
Eudon Choi. In fact, some of the most raved-about spring 2022 shows (when I looked in real time on the handles of fashion insiders—particularly buyers) skewed towards this more minimalistic and understated approach. Peter Do’s debut runway during New York Fashion Week was one that many an expert got behind and really set the tone for a new wave of get-up-and-go outfits.
Nili Lotan. “Versatility and ease are more important than ever, and this can be achieved with basics with a twist, modern classics and muted tones, all of which are the vital pieces every wardrobe needs to help elevate the simplest of looks,” says Page. “We’re seeing our customers invest more in quality basics and timeless pieces that can be worn for seasons and even years to come, so when those pieces have an additional quirky element—they’re sold! Our favourites for S/S 22 include Peter Do’s maxi shirt, Jil Sander’s yellow boxy blazer and Victoria Beckham’s oversized shirt in mellow blue.”
L–R: Lanvin, DSquared2, Givenchy, Stella McCartney. According to Google Trends, from December 2020 to December 2021, the searches for “platform shoes” have doubled. Over the past few months in particular, since “Freedom Day” finally came around (and subsequently went), the desire for revenge heels has resulted in resonance with content and social posts we have produced around party shoes and incredible heels. However, now that many of us have experienced the comfort and ease of wearing chunky, stompy flats throughout every season, there’s no going back. This has culminated in designers looking at platform shoes for every level of elevation and every possible task: There is still a strong lean towards sensible sandals you can walk all day in but now varying degrees of high-heel platforms you could consider for work, for partying or for simply being chauffeur-driven in.
Versace. These stacked shoes, sandals and boots were everywhere, from casual collections like the breezy bohemian look at Chloé through to amped-up ranges like Versace’s fun-fun-fun going-out looks. From foam-bottomed Velcro sandals and thick-soled flip-flops through to strappy, metallic, high-high heels, there’s a little lift to be had, no matter what your personal preference might be.
On the fancy, OTT end of the spectrum, there is one new brand in particular that fashion editors, stylists and buyers are all keen to tell you about. D’Accori’s sculptural, extra-high platform sandals—particularly the Belle style—have already been chosen by the likes of Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande, Doja Cat and Lady Gaga, so we expect this name will be everywhere in 2022.
L–R: Alaïa, Nina Ricci, Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch. Midi skirts have reigned supreme for some time now—at least the past decade—but during the summer of 2021, we started to notice an uptick in people on our Instagram and TikTok feeds moving back into maxis. The trend looks set to continue strongly in 2022, with key brands such as Louis Vuitton and Givenchy backing the cut. There is a Y2K lilt to these hemlines descending, with simple tube styles that fit closer to the ankles being more present than, say, a hippy, tiered cut. “I like this trend because it stands out even if it is a simple colour or cut,” personal shopper Angelina Pietrafesa told me earlier in the year. “Extremes rather than ‘in the middle’ are proving popular, and I personally prefer to go really short or really long. Extreme lengths are easily paired and contrasted, always creating a more dramatic look, day and night.”
Givenchy. Who What Wear UK editor Emma Spedding is sold on the addition of maxi into her spring 2022 wardrobe: “The Givenchy black slip skirt is perhaps the coolest—it’s simple but looks like something Gwyneth Paltrow would have worn in the ’90s so has lots of cool points. Pair with a white T-shirt and chunky sandals and you have an effortless, elegant summer look.”
Nanushka. LYST confirms the concept and can already see the rise in interest: “Short hemlines might be defining the current season, but maxi long lines are coming in hot for the next one. ‘Oversized’ and ‘maxi’ are already amongst the most popular keywords when looking at dresses, and we predict that the trend will continue in the coming months.” And as such, the trend is already filtering into stores particularly when rendered in pull-on ribbed jersey and knit options, which act as an easy base for creative layering and cool tops or jackets.
L–R: 16Arlington, Loewe, Versace, Supriya Lele. As previously discussed (feared?), there’s no escaping Y2K in 2022. The noughties have been plundered for all their worth, and the outcomes show a sliding scale of dedication to the past. Some looks are just a subtle hit of reminiscence; others are a full-blown homage. So you can channel Britney, Mariah, Xtina, et al., in an excess of denim or butterfly tops with low-slung trousers, or you can opt in for more minimalist, muted pieces that are simply echoing the silhouettes of the time like bootcuts, skimpy shirts and crop tops. According to ‘s deep-dive on the season’s offering, Y2K came up time and time again—too often to ignore. “Nostalgia prevailed, with designers taking cues from eras past to influence future trends. Circa 2000 exposed midriffs, low-slung denim, butterfly patterns and micro-miniskirts were noted at Blumarine, Chanel and Fendi’s Versace presentation. Mini styles are currently 46% of skirts stocked online at fast-fashion retailers. While hip-hugging jeans are divisive within consumers, brands are banking on this silhouette and modernizing it for 2022. The style has experienced a 21% increase YoY, with retailers attaching low waistbands to slouchy, relaxed fits to make the trend more palatable.”
Blumarine. Holly Tenser, buying manager of ready-to-wear at Browns says, “We love a good era revival, and this has to be one of my personal favourites of late. Y2K fashion brings back so many strong memories and references throughout the music and pop-culture scene of the late ’90s and ’00s. We have some incredible new brands launching for S/S 22, which really encapsulate this movement, such as Poster Girl, with their iconic cut-out shapewear and mesh party dresses, as well as Kim Shui’s collection that referenced pop culture throughout and encouragingly presented strong body inclusivity down the runway. We recently launched firm favourite Knwls and love her incredible leather bustier styles and printed minidresses with matching printed leggings. We’ve also seen the return of low-slung cargo pants and bootleg or loose, oversized denim from super brands Balenciaga, Balmain, and Tom Ford through to contemporary designers such as Wandler denim and Agolde.”
Coperni. “We love how the Y2K trend has put Gen Z firmly on the map as key shoppers and the future of fashion. But also not forgetting the burst of nostalgia that comes with each low-slung waist and plush miniskirt from the other generations revisiting the trend second time around!” says Page. “This is a trend we are certainly backing for S/S 22, and we can’t wait to launch two incredible new designers, LaQuan Smith and Supriya Lele—they are ones to watch if you’re into diamanté rich bodysuits and super-fun asymmetric cut-outs. “
L–R: David Koma, Magda Butrym, Gucci, PatBo. When it comes to 2022’s very extra-AF mood, nothing quite seals the deal like an outfit covered in feathers. This is a fabrication trend that has been on the rise for some time now, with this festive season’s party dressing being full of the stuff. From Sleeper’s instantly recognisable and oft-copied feather pj’s through to Taller Marmo’s fabulous, frou-frou gowns, our social feeds are full of this playful look. Searches for “feather dresses” being four times more than this time last year, according to Google Trends, and even a cursory look on the high street will show that this is starting to hit the mainstream, with feathered pieces available at the likes of Kitri, ASOS and River Island.
Valentino. Valentino was one of the brands most committed to the idea, with vibrantly coloured pieces covered entirely in matching ostrich feathers—even the accessories matched, which is indicative of how many of us will tap into the look. Feathered shoes and bags feel more approachable than a full, peacocking ensemble. Although, I’m certain we’ll see more and more of this finish in fashion circles.
Giambattista Valli. As this trend lends itself very well to occasionwear, we predict it will make a big play for the wedding guest looks of 2022. However, there are more casual options available too: Right now, on Instagram, you’ll find simple, feather-trimmed shirts or jeans playing a very normal part of day-to-day wardrobes, and the aforementioned Sleeper pj’s continually selling out.
L–R: Raf Simons, Botter, Y/Project, Lacoste. It’s funny how, when given all the fashion options in the world, designers can’t help but default back to the safety of a uniform. Classic pieces and combinations you’d instantly associate with what you once wore to school have come back into the limelight, although the way in which they’re styled just might be more rebellious than you remember. It’s preppy, but definitely not prim.
Miu Miu. Across the runways, we saw outfits that harked back to proper school uniforms. Think V-neck knits, pleated skirts, socks, loafers and plain white shirts. Raf Simons and Miu Miu led the pack, with Raf’s take more grunge and scruffy to Miuccia’s sassy, stomach-baring girls. Both are rebels. and the concept here is to take the pillars of the uniform and turn them on their heads.
Dior. There were sporty looks for track-and-field types too, with rugby shirts and cricket jumpers making multiple appearances. Meanwhile, Dior created a series of simple black-and-white ’60s-infused looks that felt like school costumes from an old French movie and were therefore as cute as can be. The trend has a wide range of options for all personal styles, but it’s a look that never really fades away and makes for a safe investment.
L–R: Loewe, Carolina Herrera, Simone Rocha, Richard Quinn. As far as new silhouettes go, this is the primary update for spring 2022, and I’m personally feeling pretty psyched about it. It’s been a long time since the puffball looked so good—I recall the last time I was interested was thanks to Carrie Bradshaw’s floral vintage dress from the first movie. (Remember the one with the giant red roses and big, poufy peplum over a pencil skirt?) The extreme outline has been pinched from the 1980s and totally modernised for the season ahead. Loewe’s voluminous hems looked fresh on denim skirts, Simone Rocha’s bouncy tulle dresses were somehow transformed into daywear by nana-ish cardigans, and—if you’re looking for high-octane after-dark—no one did it better than Richard Quinn. “With the Y2K and the 1980s resurgence in full swing, more shoppers are looking into bolder options,” says LYST, and this retro reference fits the bill if diving into the noughties just isn’t for you.
Celine. One of my personal favourites within this niche trend came thanks to Hedi Slimane for Celine. His puffball-skirted floral dress looked oh so easy to fling on by adding in box-fresh sneakers and a cropped jacket—it is a formula that could really work on the streets of London, and I hope to see it replicated IRL.
Lutz Huelle. The addition of puffball hems aren’t solely tied to dresses and skirts. The detail works well for a nice-top-and-jeans pairing, a combination that has proven to be extra popular all year long and won’t be fading out any time soon.
L–R: Christopher Esber, Nensi Dojaka, Miu Miu, Chanel. As well as Y2K and super-bright colours, the final contender in spring/summer’s top trio of trends has to include this new take on sexy. “It’s been refreshing to see sexy and empowering silhouettes for summer 2022; think short, sheer and sparkles,” says Emma Ilori, head of womenswear elevation at Flannels.”We were particularly excited to see the return of the super-micro miniskirt, which dominated Miu Miu’s collection. Another brand that was an advocate for sexy was Saint Laurent, who centred their collection around night-time styles, from skin-tight catsuits that daringly revealed skin to plunging necklines. Confident designs dominated the catwalk… Partywear is back!”
Ganni. The concept comes in many forms, from sheer fabrics to cut-out everything, teeny tiny, shrunken silhouttes to form-fitting body-con. There’s netting and lace, bra tops and miniskirts, and many are balanced out by oversized tailored or flat, chunky shoes to give a modern, laid-back spin. “A stalwart detail of the sexed-up theme, cut-outs have seen a 57% increase in tops and 143% in dresses YoY,” Edited tells me. “Another element synonymous with sexy, sheer materials has increased 7% versus 2020. Retailers have evolved their assortments, so tops are 45% of sheer investments, down from 54%, while dresses are 26% versus 22% YoY. We can expect this trend to be more commonplace in spring 2022 partywear assortments, following iterations of see-through dresses shown at Saint Laurent and Missoni.”
Prada. “In terms of the new sexy dressing, our customer is a leader—she dresses for herself and she’s very empowered,” says Cassie Smart, head of womenswear at MATCHESFASHION. “This is also about body confidence; the season’s co-ords emphasise your best features with a focus on new erogenous zones, such as shoulder cutouts, which feel body-friendly. There’s also a lot of through around using fabrics that flatter all shapes in an effortless and approachable way.” And as such, it was refreshing and exciting to see many of these looks showcased on the runway with non-straight-sized models as well as seeing pieces configured into really nonchalant looks (see Prada’s knit-and-mini above), proving that revealing skin or dressing in a super-sassy way is not just for the ultra-slim or the show-offs out there.
L–R: Fendace, Loewe, Tory Burch, Chanel. I’ve been writing about bag trends for almost 15 years now, and I can tell you the same few ideas come around time and again. Worth investing in, IMHO? Premium logo bags. The monogram has survived economic depressions, entire mood shifts and many a gimmicky trend to always be covetable, classic and, in many cases, hold its resale value. This coming spring/summer 2022, logo bags are omnipresent. There are some totally new takes that have “future collectible” written all over them: the very rare coming together of two fashion houses—Fendi and Versace to create Fendace—being top of the tree. Loewe’s new logo is understated and chic. Chanel’s simple totes are the same.
Louis Vuitton. Luxury brands that are well-known for their branded goods, such as Louis Vuitton, have pushed into new territory with different fabrics, such as this intricately cut-out LV monogram overlay. Many of the most important designer bags of this year also feature recognisable logos or, at the very least, a branded clasp, so if you already own something along these lines, you’re already tapping into 2022’s big handbag trend.
Balmain Resort 2022. In terms of silhouettes, you’ll see an increase in supersize totes and shoppers for spring 2022, both inclusive and exclusive of this particular log trend. Although smaller crossbody styles are still very popular and highly practical, our lives have required bigger, chuck-everything-in bags over the past 18 months, and so it’s no surprise that it will continue into the future.
L–R: Givenchy, Altuzarra, Marine Serre, Johanna Ortiz. The desire for clothes and accessories that speak to our most fabulous holiday selves was plain to see across the spring/summer 2022 runways. Some designers really tapped into aesthetics from specific places across the globe, but there was an overarching mood of luxe, bohemian looks that would be suited to any exotic location. The trend centres around craftsmanship and tactile fabrics, rich colours and an excess of detailing—the kind of pieces that are incredibly hard to reproduce on the high street. However, you will likely see a translation to more affordable stores through elements such as tie-dye, crochet, sarong skirts and tasseled bags.
Paco Rabanne. There is a no-holds-barred approach for 2022’s bohemian set. The more accessories, the better, and the more dedicated to the look you can be, the more it carries off. This isn’t a case of simply nodding to a trend but trying to live it, and if the travel opportunity presents itself, then take it. Otherwise, these clothes will happily exist in towns and cities regardless!
Gabriela Hearst. “We’ve always been very passionate about craftmanship,” says Smart. “Our customer is looking for authenticity and really connects with artisanal design. At Chloé, Gabriela Hearst is putting the spotlight on craftspeople and drawing attention to global artisans. This product doesn’t feel driven by trend or time; it feels collectible.” In fact, it is Gabriela Hearst—both within her eponymous line and that of the French fashion house—who is really spearheading this movement towards slower, artisanal fashion and how ethical and consciously produced clothes can still be highly covetable.
L–R: Alejandra Alonso Rojas, Brandon Maxwell, Chet Lo, Elleme. It’s the retail gift that keeps on giving. Co-ords are now a staple part of any wardrobe and category menu on every e-commerce site. They come in many guises, but the past two years of stretch waistbands have led to an ongoing love affair for knits, jerseys and other more forgiving and comfortable fabrics. London up-and-comer Chet Lo’s spiky, stretchy pieces are so hyped up that they’ve even been worn by virtual influencers such as Lil Miquela.
ACNE Studios. There are multiple iterations for two-, three- and four-piece co-ord looks, ranging from loose-fitting trousers with cropped jumpers through to ribbed cycling shorts worn with open shirts. There are long dresses over skinny pants, ladylike cardigans and pencil skirts… In essence, a co-ord exists for you and you alone. You simply have to hunt it down. One of my top, and most interesting-looking, offerings came from ACNE Studios, with this scalloped and net-like knit miniskirt and long-sleeve cardigan: It has Instagram grid written all over it.
Eckhaus Latta. “The appeal of a co-ord is that it looks put together and polished however is as comfortable as wearing a tracksuit and requires little to no styling,” says Spedding. “Next spring, there are some subtle styling tweaks, such as unbuttoning cardigans to reveal a flash of skin at the midriff and a spin on a skirt suit with matching cardigans and skirts. Elleme’s ribbed knit cardigan-and-shorts set is the chicest one I’ve seen.”
Shop the matching Side Slit Trousers (£60).
L–R: Rodarte, Prabal Gurung, Markarian, Erdem. If you’re getting married in 2022, then lucky you! The range of white dresses available, both bridal and not-specifically bridal, are plentiful. Perhaps as a palate cleanser to all of the loud and bold styles happening elsewhere for the season, we have seen a veritable banquet of delicious white dresses coming in strong. Short, long, day, evening, fancy, beachy, sexy, modest… You name it. There’s a white dress to match. Many of the styles I gravitated towards had some pretty special detailing like full skirts, ruffles, pie-crust collars or delicate cut-outs, but I know I’d get plenty of wear out of a very plain white shirt dress when the centigrade soars.
Et Ochs. “I didn’t wear a white dress when I got married, but I fully intend on embracing spring/summer 2022’s bridal vibes,” says Who What Wear UK’s acting assistant editor, Maxine Eggenberger. “White dresses dominated the runway in just about every way you can think of—tulle, crochet, linen, satin—and in every length, making for a spectacle in its purest form. Whether you choose Erdem’s whimsical ruffles, Et Ochs’s sultry cut-outs or Rodarte’s lace-trimmed slip, you’re sure to find your frock soul mate in the latest collections.”
Molly Goddard. With the concept of the “bridal wardrobe” (that’s a range of different looks for your big day, weekend or any other length of time) on the increase since restrictions eased, wedding-friendly options in many forms are a clever bet for designers looking to explore different retail categories. The behavioural shift also extends to the concept of renting out your old bridal look as well as hiring pieces to bulk out your celebratory capsule. Additionally, some brides are keen to rewear their own wedding ensembles for other occasions, and the above Molly Goddard–approved combination of trousers layered under a flouncy white dress provides an offbeat and cool option.
L-R: Balenciaga, Stella McCartney, Sankuanz, Puppets and Puppets. The movement for big, big blazers isn’t a new one. This trend has been bubbling up for quite a few seasons in a row, but it’s the first time we’ve started to see it segue into high-street so easily: Right now, you’ll find great options at Arket, COS, H&M and & Other Stories, to name but a few of our trusted affordable stores. To ramp it up, designers are taking things every further for spring 2022. Sleeves are going long, shoulder bags are even larger and in some instances these giant blazers are worn with nothing else at all—looking at you, Saint Laurent.
Sportmax. “I know the word timeless is bandied around a lot in fashion, but really, you don’t get more timeless than a blazer. At the time of writing, I estimate that I own around 10 blazers, with each one possessing its own unique personality. This is why I, unsurprisingly, fell hard for S/S 22’s oversized-blazer trend, coveting the styles that were sent down the runways of Balenciaga, Prada and Sportmax,” says Who What Wear UK’s shopping editor, Joy Montgomery. “While they look undeniably chic when worn loose with matching trousers, I personally love the effect of cinching an XXL blazer with a belt and adding slim-fit trousers. My husband’s tuxedo blazer fits the bill nicely.”
Saint Laurent. As previously noted by LYST, the word “oversized” is cropping up more and more on its shopping app, and you can also see over on Google Trends that since 2018, searches for “oversized blazer” have been steadily growing, reaching a peak at the start of the most recent A/W 21 season. They played a big part in the runways for autumn and look primed to be just as pivotal for spring, the primary difference being that where trouser suits were leading the way, the oversized blazer is now a statement piece in its own right or can be worn as a dress.
L–R: Jil Sander, Mônot, Richard Malone, Rick Owens. When it comes to elegant trends for spring 2022, nothing beats this one. Beautifully draped, ruched and pleated fabrics are flattering, romantic and very timeless. This is a technique that many designers—like Rick Owens—have been honing over the decades, but that’s not to say some newer brands aren’t totally nailing it. A huge portion of Richard Malone’s collection at London Fashion Week featured beautifully draped dresses, the kind of which one could wear forevermore, even if your weight and body shape fluctuate.
Ashlyn. “With Dimitra Petsa’s wet-look dresses making a wave amongst celebrities and numerous brands including Richard Malone, Rick Owens and Loewe showing more sculptural pieces in their 2022 collections, we expect that spring will be a season full of draping details,” says LYST. Lizzo, Gigi Hadid, FKA Twigs and Khloé Kardashian have all chosen Petsa’s wet-look dresses, but if that feels a little extreme for day-to-day wear then there are plenty of options rendered in thicker and more modest fabrics. You can wear them for occasions like weddings or the races, but they can be just as easy to throw on for a day at the office.
MM6 by Maison Margiela. Although many iterations of this trend revolve around stretchy fabrics and body-con fits, there’s also a more avant-garde route you can take with artfully constructed looser pieces, like silk tops or billowing skirts.
L–R: Isabel Marant, Chanel, Coach, Rejina Pyo. Just when you thought miniskirts were daring enough, along comes a designer trend for actual bikini tops to be worn any day of the week! From surfer girls at Isabel Marant (who layered theirs over tees) to little black triangle tops worn with smart suiting, there was no escaping this styling idea for S/S 22.
Maryam Nassir Zadeh. “Resortwear is such a feel-good department; it just makes you want to permanently be on holiday, instantly evoking great memories of time in the sun. It was great to see so many brands moving into this world and announcing their place in this category by presenting bikinis and the like on the runway,” says Tenser. “We saw bikinis, bras/bralettes, and cut-out bodysuits dominate with new updates, moving away from the soft comfort of the cashmere bralettes of the last few seasons from brands such as Khaite and Alanui. These new fresh iterations were strong, sexy and daring, with soft bondage-style strap details from Nensi Dojaka, Knwls and Givenchy. “
Michael Kors Collection. Although the majority of bikini tops featured on the S/S 22 runways were black and as simple as can be, there were some sweeter options available too, such as this candy-pink version worn with a gingham skirt suit at Michael Kors Collection. This look also reflected the variety in moods that can be connected to this one, teeny tiny piece of clothing. Will it take off for real? We’ll just have to wait and see…
L–R: Proenza Schouler, Chloé, Proenza Schouler, Thebe Magugu. So good it had to be featured in both iterations, Proenza Schouler’s brightly coloured, knitted, fringed dresses are going to be THE pieces to get your hands on next spring/summer, mark my words! Fringing is a long-time bedfellow of the hotter months, but there’s something distinctly less hippy about this season’s versions. Tassel trims have been introduced to much simpler silhouettes and plain-coloured items, which makes them feel more timeless.
Roksanda. However, that’s not to say some designers didn’t have a really fantastic time experimenting with fringe! London’s leading lights seem to really adopt the detail with great enthusiasm: Roksanda’s artsy knits were all the more fascinating and exciting for the giant, colourful threads that adorned them, while Halpern—a brand known for deft sequin usage—switched gears to an explosion of tassels to created dresses worthy of a spot in a gallery.
Halpern. What this trend taps into is our yearning to feel fabrics again and have tactile experiences. After months and months of shopping online, the excitement of touching these kinds of clothes is high. Additionally, it’s these complicated fabrics that are establishing a distance between true luxury goods and the fast-paced churn of knockoffs, as it’s very difficult for affordable brands to create pieces to this kind of level.
