2021 certainly saw some unique fashion moments. From TikTok-inspired Y2K ensembles all the way to printed sets and every quilted handbag in between, it’s no doubt that the year was full of fun and creative styles, both old and new. Moving into the new year, however, you’re bound to see a new crop of trends popping up, especially as the last couple of winter months give way to a brighter, warmer spring season. If sweater vests, tennis skirts, flared pants and other 2021-specific trends weren’t totally your thing (or you’re just looking to get ahead of the trend game for the new year), here are the styles and fashion trends to look out for in 2022.
- Geometric Prints: While prints are a constant in most seasonal trends, chances are you’ll see more of them than normal during the spring 2022 season. The forecast for prints follows structured, avant garde geometric shapes. This is a great option when looking for party wear and short mini dresses in particular. Next time you’re out shopping or looking online for some fresh additions to your 2022 wardrobe, look for a statement mini dress to pair with neutral heels and a fun makeup look.
You might also find clothing and accessories in prints that give way to more funky and flowy patterns. Think rich colors and groovy shapes without being too reminiscent of a ’70s nightclub. These prints are great for anyone with more bohemian or relaxed style and can be found on just about anything from fun jackets to nail art!
- Big Jewelry: The past few seasons have been filled with shiny coin necklaces, dainty earrings, tiny handbags and other cute accessories of the small variety. Because trends tend to lean one way before eventually moving to the other side, you can count on seeing some larger accessories hit the shelves in 2022. These might be seen in the form of roomy handbags and totes, cocktail rings, statement earrings, bold-colored pendants and more.
Remember to create balance within your looks (unless you’re purposely going for an over the top look!) and let a couple of big pieces do all the talking instead of five or six. Keep your dainty jewelry to add in as filler pieces here and there if you like to have a tiny bit of sparkle on the ears, neckline or wrists. Wearing smaller, more subtle jewelry along with larger and louder jewelry makes it easy to create a cohesive jewelry look with what you already have in your collection.
- Glam Vibes: This trend is more of an aesthetic or overall look, but if you haven’t seen sleek and glamorous pieces, outfits and silhouettes in stores, online and on social media, get ready to have your feeds flooded with the look. To some, the trend is a response to the Y2K trend filled with ’90s glam heels, wet hair and glossy lips, among other beacons of the era.
The best part of the glamorous outfit trend is that it is totally customizable and easy to make your own. Making your own glam-inspired outfits might include a sleek, silky dress with patent leather heels and a sparkly pair of earrings. For a more casual look, a glam outfit might best be curated by pairing jeans or pants with a bodysuit and a pair of big sunglasses. However you choose to create a glam-inspired look, you’re sure to look on-trend while doing it.
- Fresh Knits: Give your thick winter sweaters a break if the weather permits and throw on a trendy spring knit piece this year. Lighter knits are a great transitional piece as the colder months warm up a bit or if you’re simply tired of wearing black turtlenecks. There are lots of options when it comes to refreshing knitwear and just one piece can elevate your entire outfit.
To get this look, search for lighter knits, both in weight and in color. Sleeveless knit sweaters in light or pastel colors are a great way to try out this look and layer your pieces. When paired with a cute cardigan, wearing a light knit as a first layer creates a refreshing cool-weather look that adds a bit of brightness and positivity. Look out for light-colored knits in other pieces including joggers, beanies, hoodies and more.
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- Flat Shoe Styles: Thank goodness for the return of trendy flat shoes. Whether you love cute loafers, ballet flats, fun flat booties or even mules or slides, you’ll be happy to know that your favorite brands and designers will likely hop on the returning flat shoe train. You don’t need to save these shoes for work or casual events, either. New flat shoe styles are showing embellishments, fine materials and other elevated additions like jewels and studs. They’ll pair perfectly with a maxi skirt or day dress.
