New Year, New Style. As we look to 2022 for an emotional reset, we’re also giving our wardrobe a reboot. Taking our cue from all that’s trending — along with enduring fashion classics — here is the ultimate list of style commandments to help you level up your look (and life). Repeat after us: Thou shalt wear faux leather.
Do Dopamine Dressing
If there’s one trend we’re super excited about – and hoping lasts – it’s the return of optimistic fashion in all its bold, bright, feel-good glory. Yes, rainbow-colored shades of yellow, pink, orange, purple, and aqua blue (especially worn monochromatically in suiting, dresses, and coats) are here to spark joy.
SHOP NOW: Roksanda yellow Augusta stretch-knit midi dress, $1,749.43, via Net-A-Porter
SHOP NOW: Bottega Veneta Jodie mini knotted leather tote $2,250, via Net-A-Porter
Add an After Dark Dress
Before you get too carried away on all the neon brights, remember black is eternal and right now the LBD (in mini, midi, and floor-length) is having another major moment in sexy silhouettes, and luxe embellishment.
SHOP NOW: Elie Saab ruffle-detail sequin-embellished dress, $5,551, via Farfetch
SHOP NOW: Victoria Beckham Open-back crepe midi dress, $2,030 via Net-A-Porter
Think Pink
The biggest spin-off of dopamine dressing is bright pink, which is making its presence known all on its own. Particularly as the hot right now hue on mini bags, statement shoes (from cute mules to crazy high platforms ), and fashion jewelry.
SHOP NOW: Christian Louboutin Elisa mini leather shoulder bag, $5,660, via Net-A-Porter
SHOP NOW: Bottega Veneta Debossed Leather Mules, $890, via Net-A-Porter
Go Green
Yes in terms of color — Katie Holmes just made a case for the emerald statement coat— and also for the planet. As the fashion world commits to lowering its carbon footprint with the creation of chic eco designs and waste-free production, look to names like Stella McCartney, Gabriela Hearst, Gucci, and Mara Hoffman for luxury sustainable style inspiration.
SHOP NOW: Gabriela Hearst + NET SUSTAIN Marion leather knee boots, $1,590, via Net-A-Porter
SHOP NOW: Stella McCartney Trace logo-detailed vegetarian leather Chelsea boots, $1,040, via Net-A-Porter
Loaf Around
As for your shoe wardrobe, the classic loafer has settled in to stay. Only right now it’s gone to chunky, suped-up new heights and with fanciful accents. Shop the latest iterations on the iconic style.
SHOP NOW: Gucci Horsebit Platform Loafer, $980, via Farfetch
Invest in Classics
Speaking of classics while some trends come and go at lightning speed, investment dressing is all about curating a capsule wardrobe of forever pieces. Add to cart: Structured black blazer, chic button-down (in crisp white, sky blue, striped, or ideally all of the above), cozy cashmere, the aforementioned loafer, statement coat, tailored pant.
SHOP NOW: The Row Brentwood Blazer, $1390, via Saks Fifth Avenue
SHOP NOW: Everlane Relaxed Oxford Button-Down Shirt, $75, via Everlane
Embrace Embellishment
At the other end of the spectrum, dipping into current trends is what makes fashion fun. And right now feathers, crystals, fringing, sequins, mesh, and all manner of embellishment are bringing color, drama, and creativity to dressing.
SHOP NOW: Germanier feather-trim gradient knitted skirt, $513 via MatchesFashion
Make A Play for Print
Prints, from the subtle to the riotous are always in style. Right now in addition to the enduring checks, logomania, dark florals, and jacquard are packing a punch. Work the look in funny pants (Zoom-fatigue has renewed our lust for statement pants, the crazier the better), chic midi dresses, evening coats, and head-to-toe accessories, yes print has stamped its personality on everything from your heels to your earrings.
SHOP NOW: Diane Von Furstenberg Poet Belted Print Jumpsuit, $658, via Diane Von Furstenberg
Master The Art of Statement Jewelry
Whether it’s fine or fashion, layer up. The perfect fashionista finishing touch, wear long gold necklaces (chain links are literally everywhere), flex those knuckle dusters, pile on the cuffs and bracelets (brightly colored, chain-linked, gold, and silver), and invest in plenty of ear candy (think pendants, hoops).
Wear the Pants
Slouchy tailored pants (cropped or floor length) are giving the denim jean a run for their money. Look to them in classic shades of black and have fun with color and work the look in chic separates or embrace the return of the monochromatic power suit.
Choose Faux Leather
Call it our new love of sustainable style, but faux leather is just as sharp and sexy as the real thing. Plethora— body con dresses, tailored pants, and joggers are vying for their place as a classic fashion staple.
SHOP NOW: Pinko Faux Leather Fitted Mini Dress, $3965, via Farfetch
Slay the Tiger
It’s the Chinese Year of the Tiger, so be brave and add some Animalia to your wardrobe. Gucci, Balenciaga, Prada, and Burberry have all released Tiger-inspired collections to celebrate Chinese New Year and where the big boys tread, others will follow. Cue: plenty of rich red accents and tiger prints.
SHOP NOW: Gucci Tiger GG small tote bag, $1890, via Gucci
SHOP NOW: Prada Monolith Brushed Leather and Nylon Combat Boots, $1,580 via Prada
