Six months into the year, you might be tempted to overlook 2022's biggest fashion trends in favor of a 24/7 sweatpants existence. Lucky for you, soft clothes are a piece of the 2022 style puzzle. That said, they’re not the only items on deck.
Nostalgia is the name of the game.
With Y2K fashion peaking higher than ever, the summer and remainder of the year have plenty of fun trends in store. Spotlight-stealing attire with a joyous mood is taking over, from vivid colors and prints to bold silhouettes like bubble dresses, volume tops, cutouts galore, and ultra-low rises on pants and skirts.
Accessories are in on the fun, too. Think: chunky-AF platforms, rainbow-bright bags, and a more-is-more jewelry aesthetic combining beads, pearls, and rhinestone-decked baubles. Oh, and if your 2022 resolution was to adopt a new signature color, you better make it purple — it’s the 2022 hue in all tints, from Pantone’s Very Peri color of the year to saturated violet and lavender shades.
Ahead, a deeper dive into 2022's biggest fashion trends. Naturally, with an edit to shop.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
2022 Fashion Trend: Sweats 2.0
Whether an oversize, fleece-lined jogger is your jam or you’re more the elevated soft-pants type, preferring knitted flares and flowy culottes, leisurely bottoms are a 2022 constant, mostly thanks to the continuation of hybrid work setups.
From oversize shirting to ballooned silhouettes and a continuation of the puff sleeve trend, dresses and tops will retain their volume through the end of the year. If anything, the latter will spice up all the soft pants you’ll probably still be rocking on the bottom.
From sky-high heels to flatforms, loafers, ankle-strap heels, boots, and even clogs, this year's most popular shoe silhouette is amped up for a throwback-inspired lift. So, go ahead and give your micro-heels a break — 2022 is all about chunky soles.
Naked Wolfe Jackie Black, $, available at Naked Wolfe
Ganni Suede Creepers T-Strap, $, available at Ganni
Simon Miller Vegan Platform Bubble Clog, $, available at Simon Miller
Brother Vellies Empire Platform Boot, $, available at Brother Vellies
2022 Fashion Trend: Low-Rise Pants
Dipping wayyyy below the belly button, the low-slung pant and micro-mini skirt are back in full force. If you're not the snug ‘n’ stretchy thong-revealing style type, embrace the look via low-slung denim, leather pants, or cargos á la Jennifer Aniston in the ’90s.
Miaou Black Thong Trousers, $, available at SSENSE
Urban Outfitters UO Peachy Low-Rise Mini Skirt, $, available at Urban Outfitters
The Ragged Priest Low-Rise Baggy Jeans, $, available at Free People
Superdown Tamella Mini Skirt, $, available at Revolve
With Jean Tommy Cargo Pant, $, available at With Jean
2022 Fashion Trend: The Color Purple
From Pantone’s calming Very Peri to more saturated tones with a regal air, pieces tinged with purple are everywhere, so lock in your signature hue sooner rather than later.
Levi's 501® Original High Rise Women's Shorts, $, available at Levi's
byFAR Purple Croc Rachel Mini Bag, $, available at SSENSE
Hanifa Miya Knit Cardigan Dress, $, available at Hanifa
ALOHAS South Bicolor Lilac Boot, $, available at alohas
Aritzia Lula Long-Sleeve Shirt, $, available at Aritzia
2022 Fashion Trend: Regencycore, Continued
Corsets, pearls, lady cardigans, and prim florals show no signs of a slow-down. Embrace this form of head-to-toe elegance for polished occasions like work or a party. Or, flirt with the trend with a single frilled piece combined with leggings and sneakers.
Eloquii Puff Sleeve Cropped Jacquard Top, $, available at Eloquii
Reformation Twilight Dress, $, available at Reformation
LoveShackFancy Daughter Tweed Cropped Cardigan, $, available at Moda Operandi
Maje Cotton Shirt with Small Flower Print, $, available at Maje
2022 Fashion Trend: Cutouts
No shame in the cutout game. Skin is still in, and cleverly-placed cutouts on dresses, tops, even the occasional low-rise bottom will stick around as part of the Aughts 2.0 fashion movement.
Oak + Fort Cutout Blazer Dress, $, available at Oak + Fort
Autumn Adeigbo Solid Keiko Blouse, $, available at Autumn Adeigbo
2022 Fashion Trend: Bra Tops
Pshh to real shirts, right? Whether dressing comfy at home or making a bolder statement for a night out, the bra has officially reached “real top” status. Layer yours under a shacket or oversize blazer for balance.
Paloma Wool Consuelo Organic Cotton Blend Bra Top, $, available at Nordstrom
Everlane The Seamless Bra, $, available at Everlane
2022 Fashion Trend: Bright Bags
Orange, pink, yellow, green, and bright blue are just a few ways to get in on the rainbow-bright bag trend. If not a single color to accent an outfit, go for a two-tone design or one swirling in several shades.
Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag 18, $, available at Coach
Balmain BBuzz 23 Pouch Clutch Bag, $, available at Farfetch
Brandon Blackwood The Syl Bag, $, available at Shopbop
Charles & Keith Panelled Chain Handle Bag In Mustard, $, available at Charles & Keith
2022 Fashion Trend: Mod Print
From A-line mini skirts to near-dizzying motifs — butterflies included — designers nodded to the ’60s on the runways while adding a dash of Y2K nostalgia to the pot. So, embrace your inner print mixer by combining bold with bolder (thin: jacquard knit sweater and swervy skirt to start.
ASOS Swirl Print Scoop Neck Satin Midi Slipdress, $, available at Nordstrom
Collina Strada Turquoise Butterfly Ivy Top, $, available at Collina Strada
Tabitha Brown is one of the internet’s favorite mother figures. She rose to popularity delivering good vibes and even better vegan dishes in her now-iconic soothing voice. Ever since her beaming smile popped up on our feeds, we’ve been eagerly tuning into what she’s got going on. Now Brown has partnered with Target in an ongoing collaboration: Tabitha Brown for Target. The first of four installments is out today, and it's full of vibrant flowy dresses and colorful bathing suits.
If you've been dying to update your wardrobe for the quickly rising temperatures, here's your chance. The bold hues are splashed across vacation-ready pieces that are all available in sizes XXS-4XL. Shop Brown's beautifully designed pieces ahead.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Tabitha Brown for Target Two-tone Pucker Bandeau Bikini Top & Bottom
This tube top bikini says "come on Barbie, let's go party" in the best way. The ribbed fabrication is attractive if you're really into textures. The bottoms are also high cut, which is ideal for a wide range of body types.
Tabitha Brown for Target Two-Tone Pucker Bandeau Bikini Top, $, available at Target
Tabitha Brown for Target Two-Tone Pucker Bandeau Bikini Top, $, available at Target
Tabitha Brown for Target Sleeveless Tie-front Midi Dress
Out of the dresses available in this collaboration, this one is my favorite. It's summery and light but shows off a little cleavage for a subtly sexy vibe. The fiery pink and red color blocking really grabs your attention as well. I'd wear it to a summer dinner date with friends or a 'cutie paired with chunky platform sandals or a kitten heel.
Tabitha Brown for Target Botanical Print Lowback One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Target
Tabitha Brown for Target Tropical Print Tie-front Jumpsuit
If you plan on flying to a tropical location anytime soon, this jumpsuit is perfect. Not only is it on-theme for an island vacation, but it features side pockets for bag-less outings and a removable waist tie for maximum comfort.
Tabitha Brown for Target Tropical Print Tie-Front Jumpsuit, $, available at Target
Tabitha Brown for Target Linear Floral Print Halter Neck Bikini Top & Bottom
We love a retro moment. The halter neck of the top and side cutouts in the bikini bottoms creates a fun, trend-forward look that'll pair well with a white button-down for tropical vacations.
Tabitha Brown for Target Floral Print Underwire Tie-Front One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Target
Tabitha Brown for Target Leopard/Orange Print Button-down Shirt
It's really hard to go wrong with a button-down in the summer. This cute one has cool dual prints in juicy citrus and leopard. Imagine it tied up in the front when you're feeling a little flirty or wide open to show off your bikini while strolling down the beach boardwalk.
Tabitha Brown for Target Leopard/Orange Print Button-Down Shirt, $, available at Target
Tabitha Brown for Target Floral/Polka Dot Print Cover Up
If you are splashing around at the beach or the pool all summer, you'll need a statement-making cover-up. These vibrant yellow hues and loud patterns definitely make this cover-up stand out among all the vacation-goers at your resort.
Tabitha Brown for Target Floral/Polka Dot Print Cover Up, $, available at Target
Tabitha Brown for Target Mixed Floral/Polka Dot Print Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
A style trend I like to lean on, especially in the warmer months, is pattern-mixing with garments. The floral and polka-dots complement each other well and create visual interest. This royal blue dress also has a roomy full skirt ideal for easy movement.
Congrats, you've officially made it to summertime. To celebrate, Nordstrom has slashed prices on some new top-rated picks over in its sale section. Save up to 40% off on top brands like Free People, Tom Ford, UGG, Steve Madden, and more in the cult-favorite retailer’s sale section.
Whether you're in need of some breezy dresses, fresh kicks, or sweat-wicking activewear, this sale has something for you. We clicked through everything from pastel heels to R29-reader-favorite sunscreens and found what’s really worth our dollars. Scroll ahead to cash in right now — and take advantage of these super hot deals.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team, but if you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Sam Edelman Kia Ankle Strap Sandal, $, available at Nordstrom
Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray, $, available at Nordstrom
Free People Maggie Distressed Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+ Sunscreen, $, available at Nordstrom
Circus by Sam Edelman Miranda Platform Ankle Strap Sandal, $, available at Nordstrom
Tom Ford Soleil Blanc Shimmering Body Oil, $, available at Nordstrom
Open Edit Side Ruched Skirt, $, available at Nordstrom
1.State Off the Shoulder Sheer Chiffon Blouse, $, available at Nordstrom
Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder, $, available at Nordstrom
Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne, $, available at Nordstrom
Free People Makai High Waist Cutoff Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom
Ray-Ban Erika Classic 54mm Sunglasses, $, available at Nordstrom
Free People Elora Tonal Windowpane Check Minidress, $, available at Nordstrom
Steve Madden Lipa Sandal, $, available at Nordstrom
Levi's 501® Ripped Straight Leg Jeans, $, available at Nordstrom
LOVEAPPELLA V-Neck Jersey Maxi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Faux Shearling Run Star, $, available at Nordstrom
Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20, $, available at Nordstrom
BP. Oversize Cotton Blend Shirt Jacket, $, available at Nordstrom
Ugg Scuffette II Slipper, $, available at Nordstrom
Diptyque Eau des Sens Eau de Toilette, $, available at Nordstrom
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
One question that haunts many queer fashionable people come June is “What am I going to wear for Pride?” Whether it’s your first parade or your hundredth, dressing for the biggest gay party in your city is a big deal. We suggest not leaving it all until super last minute — we know you do unless you’re a queer Virgo — and start your wishlist now.
Confused if you should go big or subtle? If you want some major rainbow inspo, we got you. From UGG sequin jackets to rainbow-covered bralettes, these are all the pieces we’re loving just in time for the big parade. Don’t get it twisted though: We would wear all of this on the daily — you know . . . because we’re gay year-round. Keep scrolling to see what queer Refinery29 editors (plus, one of their partners) are wearing to Pride this year.
“It’s not Pride month without all the glitter. We Are Fluide, the beauty brand that showcases its queer employees and clients year-round, was kind enough to send me its Pride Galaxy Box, which includes a random assortment of the brand’s signature colorful makeup AND the Pride Glitter Trio. Have you seen anything more perfect for Pride? I haven’t!” —Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
“My girlfriend wore this to Queens Pride last weekend and was thrilled not to have to take a purse. With six roomy pockets, she was able to store everything from stickers to buttons to emergency cash to sunscreen on her person. Plus, for someone who is paler than anything, she was able to stay covered without feeling weighed down or too hot with the light and breathable fabric. It’s parade-perfect.” —Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
“At Pride, there’s no greater advantage than to go hands-free. I was so incredibly jealous of my girlfriend’s boiler suite with its multitude of pockets, that it made me realize I need to invest in a rainbow belt bag (fanny pack, whatever!) for the rest of my Pride month events. Having both hands available is a real treat when you’re double (or triple) fisting water, iced coffee, and whatever other beverage you may grab along the way. This one from Coach is a bit of a splurge, but a girl can dream, right?” —Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
“Target was also kind enough to send me some of its Pride goodies after I wrote about the collection, and this tote bag was among them! You might not think it just by looking at the photo online, but this thing is huge — which is perfect for everything you could possibly want to bring to Pride! Plus, the poem is absolutely beautiful.” —Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
“When lesbian TikTok influencer Mac Rose (@officialmacrose) announced she was collaborating with Adore Me for a new Pride collection, I knew I needed it — ASAP! This unlined bralette is rainbow enough to wear to pride AND subtle enough for every day.” —Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
“I’ll be wearing them because they’re super comfy for being on my feet all day walking around and dancing. I also love the classic Chuck look with a slightly more retro feel with the Chuck 70. Plus, the dark root colors go with my majority earth-tone wardrobe.” —Andie Kent, Associate Social Editor
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
