I have been a fashion editor for over a decade, and so have seen many trends and styling suggestions come and go. Summer looks can get a little predictable and if I'm honest uninspiring, but this year there have been plenty of trends that feel really fresh, but will still have longevity in your wardrobe. I've been careful to pick nothing throwaway or which I believe will have a sell-by date, and focused on hot-weather trends which will have plenty of wow factor for years to come.
After a year spent inside in jogging bottoms, there's a sense of adventure and risk-taking with summer trends this year, whether that's a bold and vibrant print or risky cut-out placements. With a summer filled with events and travels, I'm all about adding drama into my wardrobe in 2022.
The trend I'm most excited about is gowns or dresses with statement capes or exaggerated sleeves—these gowns are ideal for any summer event where you can swish about and unleash your inner Beyonce. I also have loved to see how certain 'lockdown' phenomenons have morphed into our wardrobes in 2022, and this year tie dye has had a grown-up makeover with lots of elevated prints which have blurred and subtle tie dye effects.
Keep scrolling for the 5 summer trends that feel really fresh right now.
1. Grown-Up Tie Dye
Style Notes: Tie dye had a moment during lockdown, but it has now morphed into a more elegant grown up version of tie dye with blurred prints. Loewe kicked this one off with its 'blur print' which sold out almost immediately.
Loewe's blur print is a key player here.
The tie-dye is so beautiful.
Shop the Look:
This also has a matching skirt.
2. Dramatic Cape Silhouettes
Style Notes: I don't need to tell you why this trend is so amazing—it's all maximum impact. Opt for oversized fabrics with capes or sleeves that you can swish for added drama.
Shop the Look:
This Chloé gown is a masterpiece.
A true showstopper.
What a statement colour.
3. Boxer Shorts + Shirts
Style Notes: This is a trend I have personally invested in—a pair of linen boxer shirts and an oversized shirt are sjust o easy to wear either on the beach or at home. We even have our own from our first collection Drop 01 by Who What Wear in a beautiful sage green.
From our sustainable collection Drop 01.
The elasticated waist is so chic.
With Nothing Underneath does the most beautiful linen shirts and shorts sets.
4. Tummy Flashing Looks
Style Notes: We largely have Christopher Esber to thank for this one. Stomach-flashing co-ords and dresses are having a moment, either in black or punchy sunset shades.
And this one is on sale.
Well played Mango.
Christopher Esber is the one behind this trend.
5. String Bikinis
Style Notes: The one piece has been dominating for several years, but a string bikini has a nostalgic appeal. The stringier the better—and don't be afraid of loud prints and colours.
Shop the Trend:
A subtle metallic finish.
Triangl does the best bikinis.
Oséree is a new name to know.
