Spring and summer are some of the most exciting times of year in fashion, and during the warmer months, it’s time to have some more fun with the way we dress. As icy mornings make way for those long-awaited light and balmy evenings and our calendars are filling up with barbecues and garden parties once again, shrugging off those heavy coats and scarves has never felt so good. And, with a flurry of covetable new trends having hit the catwalks at S/S 22 Fashion Week, replenishing your wardrobe with the latest designer must-haves is likely one of the more pleasurable tasks on your never-ending to-do list.
From floaty floral dresses for women to bright 90s neons, this season’s biggest trends are a decidedly mixed bag, but one thing they all have in common is the nod they give to enjoying life. After two years of restrictions, rules and regulations, it’s time to let your hair down and make the most out of those long, hot days – and these are the looks to be wearing while you do just that.
Acid brights
The new season trends for summer 2022 are largely dominated by 90s influences, so it’s perhaps little wonder that we’re seeing a dramatic return of acid brights. Making their way into everything from geometric cut-out tops and bootcut trousers to flowing maxis and midis, it’s not a trend for the shy and retiring type – because for the next few months, it’s all about being bold and unapologetic with the way you dress.
Lime green is enjoying a particular moment, with big name designers including Versace, Valentino and Stella McCartney all debuting the trend, so restock your wardrobe with some stand-out pieces to see you through the summer party season, and you’re guaranteed to nail the season’s hottest look.
Halter necks
What would any 90s revival be without the return of the halter neck? This flattering style works wonders when it comes to adding curves in the right places, as well as enhancing the ones you’ve already got – from giving you a much needed ‘boost’, to cinching you in nicely at the waist.
From simple summer vests and lightweight block-colour dresses to full-on catsuits, there are a multitude of different ways in which to rock this look – it all depends on how brave you’re feeling. As a general rule, remember that less is generally more – so avoid teaming with a revealing mini and heels and wear with a pair of low-rise, bootcut trousers instead. Look out for unique details like criss-cross straps and metal loops to really up the ante.
Low-rise waistlines
Yes, you did hear us mention low rise, and that’s because it’s another of this season’s biggest returning trends. Perhaps one of the less flattering of the bunch if not done right, if you thought – or hoped – we’d seen the back of them when the Millennium dawned, then you might be disappointed. But in 2022, there’s a new way to wear them, and we’re relieved to confirm that they look much better than they did the first time around.
Low-slung skirts with matching bikini tops were a strong look at the likes of Tom Ford and Miu Miu, while we saw some decidedly more mix-and-match vibes elsewhere. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your combos, but if you follow one cardinal rule of fashion, make sure it’s buying the right size – because this isn’t a look that lends itself well to too-tight lines on the hips.
Mini skirts
The last few years have been all about the maxis, then the midis – but it’s been some time since we saw micro-minis hitting the catwalk. Until now, that is. Thankfully, we tend to have smoother, more tanned legs at this time of year, so it isn’t so much of a chore to get them prepped for the big reveal – with high-waisted styles and athleisure-inspired looks the orders of the season.
A trend that pairs well with the bold 90s neon look, wear your hems high and team with a simple bandeau top, oversize blazer and ankle boots for a thoroughly modern twist on the trend, or team with flat sandals for an easy daytime look.
Bra tops
Bra tops were a popular look amongst young clubbers in the 90s – but now they’re back with a bang, and with a far more sophisticated look. Lingerie as outerwear is a trend that has never really gone away over recent years, and has remained ever-present in one form or another. Now, we’re championing the triangle-shaped bra with acid bright trousers and a matching oversize blazer as the look of the season – the perfect layered-up look for when the weather could go either way.
