As the first year in the post-pandemic world, 2022 turned out to be good for fashion trends. Designers and stylists presented new looks, celebrities tried it, and runways lit up – from fun silhouettes, and accessories to the best fabrics. We list the best of the year.
Heavy on velvet
Fashion has seen a resurgence in all things velvet like dresses, turtlenecks, outerwear and accessories. Jared Leto and Andrew Garfield wore velvet tuxedos adorned with polka dots by Gucci. Likewise, Timothee Chalamet debuted his boldest look yet – a Haider Ackerman custom jumpsuit in red. Even if the fabric is as basic as a coat, it gives a shiny and lively look. To celebrate Christmas and New Years, incorporate some velvet pieces with glittery decorations and you’re ready to take on the job. The trend was on the runways as well – dresses by Etro, umbrellas and trousers by Magliano, and coats by Officine Generale.
Going shirtless
Pinning is always big, but this year, pinning the shirt is a new spin. Done by celebrities like Simu Liu, Shawn Mendes, Harry Styles, Jonas Hill and Lil Nas X, and also seen on the runways of Dries Van Noten, Louis Vuitton, Heron Preston and Balmain, going shirtless is safe to say. And just wearing a suit or jacket on its own is the ultimate achievement.
Easy fit
Ditching the formal wear is the new norm for 2022. Relaxed or loose-fitting clothing dominates this season. It’s functional – comfort is the goal here – obviously without compromising on style. These irregular pieces are less tight and easy to move, a good option for year-end parties or Sunday Brunos looking for a good look. Seen by Zegna, Giorgio Armani, The Row, Prada, Versace and more, loose clothing was a staple on red carpets in ’22.
Tricky sweater
Knitwear has evolved over the years and is no longer just in the knitwear category. The 2022 sweater is more than a basic sweater. The designers are adding structural elements, child-inspired prints and more architectural touches to these sweaters. At Prada and Etro, roll neck sweaters featured elongated shoulders, while JW Anderson tied chains as an extra bit and Dior had floral embellishments throughout. The best thing about these sweaters is that they can be worn alone or tried with other bold accessories and pants.
A touch of pop-color
Any clothes. From bright summer colors to neons and pastels, intense shades such as cobalt blue, bright purple and green, every designer has included a part of such colors in their collection – it doesn’t matter if it’s summer or autumn collection – these pop tones are permanent. Seen on the runways of Dior Homme, Louis Vuitton, Jacques, Paul Smith, Jil Sanders, Off-White and Versace – it’s clear that pop is back. If you’re not willing to go monochrome with these bold shades, add a pop of accessories like a crossbody bag, shirt, bandana or hat.
Print gallery
At first, publications were limited to spring and summer only. Now, with various prints featuring tie-dye, designs, patches, graffiti, geometric figures and abstract works, these myriad prints bring a heightened sense of art to fashion. Go bold in print or incorporate a single printed piece into your look. Take sartorial inspiration from these sartorial figures who know how to work prints like Ranveer Singh, Harry Styles, Childish Gambino, Ayushmann Khurrana, A$AP Rocky, Justin Bieber, Shawn Mendes and more.
SHEER is on
One of the boldest trends to embrace the year is see-through. If you are confident enough to pull this off, you can master anything in fashion. Sweaters and shirts are here to stay. These tops don’t necessarily need to be worn by themselves. Start by layering over a patterned or plain tank or under an oversized jacket. Recently actor Ishaan Khatter went for an embellished top paired with a pair of laces and pants of the same shade. No matter how you choose to wear it, its clean touch adds depth and texture to your look—and we’re here for it.
See: Sunnis
A big trend in the late 80s and 90s, tinted sunglasses are back. Back off the classic blacks and go for these sheer shades. Luxury labels like Gucci, Ray-Ban, Prada and Fendi have introduced a variety of futuristic designs and colored lenses, which are a great way to try out new shapes if you’re a little hesitant.
Designer collaboration year
It is the year of cooperation. From Fendi x Versace aka Fendace, Yeezy Gap Engineered by Balenciaga, Nike x Jacquemus, Balmain x Barbie, Burberry x Supreme, Adidas x Gucci and more, both fashion houses have successfully collaborated to bring exclusive and collector-worthy items. From statement bombers, sneakers, handbags and shoes to casual wear, these products have created interest for all fashion enthusiasts.
Neck accessories
Everything that goes on the neck is popular. Bandanas, enamel jewelry, platinum chains, multi-layered pearl necklaces, pendants, brooches, bowties and scarves can be added to elevate your look. This season has been getting a lot of attention from celebrities on the runways as well as on the red carpets, complete with neck pieces and accessories.
Open shoes
Everyone loves sneakers, but sometimes it’s good to break out in this padded shoe. Go for a breathable pair of shoes or sandals that allow your feet to breathe. A timeless shoe, they can be worn effortlessly while running errands or exploring a new city. The versatility of sandals and loafers makes them easy to pair and can be worn at any time of the day.
