5 Spring Fashion Trends to Expect in 2022

We only recently said goodbye to the year that saw the rise and fall of lockdown loungewear, the conception of dopamine dressing, and the continued popularity of the good-old puffer coat. 2022 however, already looks set to bring more surprises. This January, Chanel controversially sent a horse down the runway; Kim Kardashian channelled Love Island-gymfluencer chic and caused searches for the Nike Air Max 96s to jump 81%; and season two of Euphoria tightened its chokehold over anyone on social media right now.

Fashion-wise, TikTok continues to push new, often unexpected, trends. Movements such as the reemergence of Y2K are looking set to stay and the hanging up of winter warmers is in-sight.  Alongside recent Fashion Week presentations, we have five trend predictions to keep you ahead of the game this spring.

1. Cut-Outs

If you’re looking for a Y2K fashion trend, Dua Lipa’s instagram is often a safe place to start. Cut-outs, or ‘Naked Dressing’ according to Lyst, sees bare skin become your best accessory and it’s popularity is on the up. Although not entirely new, it seems the fashion world hasn’t quite shaken the hole-ridden garment and they’re set for a comeback during the warmer weather.

Arguably not the most inclusive style and definitely not for the faint-hearted, the cut-outs mainly appear on long-sleeve tops or bodycon dresses. See: Dua’s modelling of this piece from Christopher Esber’s latest Resort collection. Notable inspo moments include Kendall Jenner wearing that cutout dress to her friend’s wedding, and Maddy’s Euphoria carnival look.

2. The Micro-Mini Skirt

In another throwback nod to the 2000s, Miu Miu’s ready-to-wear SS22 collection gave us skirts short enough to make your relatives ask why you’re only wearing a belt. The micro-mini didn’t stop there, and was seen on the runways of Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Bottega Veneta, Chanel and even Emporio Armani. Low-slung waistlines are slowly creeping back into 2022’s trends, a fact many who remember them the first time round are not too excited about.

Think Paris Hilton pumping-gas, or perhaps 90’s supermodel. The practicality of this look again is questionable, especially on varying body-types, but that doesn’t stop us enjoying the aesthetic. Inspo moments for the micro-mini include Devon-Lee Carlson’s Instagram and Liv Tyler’s plaid skirt in ‘Empire Records’.

3. Opera Gloves

Okay, so if you haven’t spent the start of 2022 scrolling TikTok this one might seem strange to you, but bare with me. Trend-forecasters on the app are confident about the opera glove trend, a fashion that includes gloves that hit above the elbow. Moschino have often dressed celebrities in opera gloves, with Lizzo donning them at a VMA afterparty and Ariana Grande wearing some to the 2020 Grammys. It’s old Hollywood meets Bridgerton-inspired ‘regencycore’ and although it may not have crossed into mainstream fashion yet, we have a feeling where TikTok leads – fast fashion usually follows.

Whatever sparked TikTok’s newest obsession with the accessory, we won’t argue that they definitely elevate a party-look.

4. Crochet & Netted Knitwear 

Lyst reported this week that thanks to celebrities such as Dua Lipa, Bella Hadid and Jonah Hill, the crochet accessory trend has continued. According to their report, searches for crochet headwear have increased 28% over the last fortnight, with styles by Fendi, Stüssy, Camp High and Free People particularly high on wishlists. The balaclava remains a staple for many as the cold weather continues. Our prediction for the crochet trend moving forward: an expansion of layered crochet and knitted garments.

As modelled here by Gigi Hadid for Altuzarra’s Spring Summer 2022 Collection, the capacity for structured pieces to be worn over minimalistic outfits leaves vast room for interpretation and varying versions. Arm-warmers and stand-alone sleeves are appearing, perfect for Spring when you can afford to leave a bare-midriff. Our recommendation: head to smaller-designers or businesses for your knitwear needs to avoid the ethical problems with mass produced items.

5. Platform & Flatform Shoes

Moon Boots had a revival this winter, but all that fur will surely mean the trend has to shift for Spring/Summer. With famous 90’s fans including Gwen Stefani and the Spice Girls, our final nostalgic trend prediction: the platform, or flatform shoe. OG platform sandal brand Steve Madden brought back the classic ‘Slinky’ sandal in Summer 2019 and since then, the ‘ugly’ trend has gone from strength to strength. In the clog world recently: Balenciaga collaborated with Crocs, then Dior with Birkenstock, to produce their own high-end versions of the closed-toe shoe worn by trendsetters and Kardashians-alike. ‘Flatform’ boots remain popular after the continued rise of, amongst other brands, these Bottega Veneta Lug Boots in 2021.

A brand doing the chunky trend right: Vagabond. Their new Mary Jane Edition shoes have recently dropped and play on the ‘ugly shoe’ in a wearable way. They offer throwback value without sacrificing comfort. Between a platform 90s strappy sandal, a flatform boot and an elevated clog, there is something in this trend for everyone who wants to throw it back – minus the crimped hair and the flip-phone. Inspo for this shoe choice: Gwen Stefani in the 90s and Bella Hadid’s Instagram.

We’re sure you’ll agree we look forward to seeing what next comes back around, my personal hope: it’s not jeans with dresses.