But now that summer is finally officially here (nothing says that more than the 9pm ITV2 sound of the latest Love Island episode) and we’re finally cooling down after quite a smothering spell of heatwave weather, you’d be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed when it comes to putting an outfit together in the morning.
Having spent two summers in varying states of national lockdown (the last of which blessed us UK residents with a whole four days of good sunshine), it’s no exaggeration to say that we felt we were owed one hell of a good one this year.
ULTRA-MINI MINIS
Pleated skirts may be midi for this season, but all others are raising the hemlines to minuscule lengths. These are minis that the supermodels of the ’90s would’ve been proud to wear, with well over half of the thigh exposed beneath the brief slip of fabric. Miu Miu created the viral hit of the season but opt for super-statement shades, prints or fabrics to ensure that while your skirt may be small it still packs a mighty punch.
STRAP IT UP
Strapped accents have been gaining popularity over recent seasons, but it’s set to really take hold from summer 2022 onwards. Whether it’s a top with multi-straps across the shoulders and décolletage, trousers with a strapped waistband criss-crossing across the stomach – or, indeed, both – you’ll have to forgo any worries of awkward tan lines this season and embrace the straps. Even that mainstay of retro accessories, the ankle strap sandal, with ties twisting up towards your knees, is back with a vengance.
WHITE SUITING
Suiting may have been off the sartorial radar for quite some months as swathes of the country took to working from home in loungewear, but this season sees the old staple return with a vengeance. Stark white and complete with show-stopping accents – from waist ties to contrast black hardware and bold shoulders, these are pieces that should make the prospect of returning to your commute a whole lot more bearable. A trouser suit also provides a chic option for an alternative wedding outfits if you’re looking for something other than a traditional dress.
UNDERWEAR OUTERWEAR
Another one for the fearless dressers, summer 2022 sees underwear become a perfectly acceptable form of outerwear. Super chic when done in the right way, layer a bralette beneath an open blazer or a top/dress with a convenient cut-out (there’s that trend again) for a subtle hint of sexy. (And this trend offers a super-stylish way to keep cool in the heat…)
HYPER FEMININE
With muted hues and style androgyny gaining traction season after season, it’s been a while since super traditionally-feminine pieces had their moment on the industry’s radar. For summer, however, frothy fabrics and pretty pink hues – from pastel to candy, rose and fuchsia – prove an interesting, playful point of difference in the fashion landscape. Add as many ruffles, tulle underlayers or pastel shades as you feel comfortable with.
