General end-of-year trend reports typically cover all the styles that defined a year. When I sat down and started to rack my brain about the buzziest items of 2022, I quickly realized that this year was going to be a lot harder to wrap up. From niche micro trends to “cores” and social media crazes (specifically TikTok’s influence) my brain began to short circuit. Coastal grandmother, Y2K, balletcore, Barbiecore, Indie sleaze — those are all terms that came and went throughout the year.
The problem is the rapid pace of the current trend cycle — nothing seems to stick long enough to define the year as a whole. I wrote about parachute-style cargo pants in July when the tactical trend was seen on everyone from Hailey Bieber to Bella Hadid. Just five months later those specific parachute pants went from being everywhere to no where at all. So with that being said, below are some trends that did define 2022, if only for a short burst. Let’s slow the cycle down in 2023, shall we?
Top Fashion Trends of 2022
Micro Mini Skirts
The Miu Miu skirt worn round the world. This Miu Miu micro mini has been seen on celebs, models, influencers, magazine covers. This look in general defines 2022.
Y2K
Y2K is here to stay. A few of the biggest trends of the year can be grouped in with the Y2K comeback from micro minis to romantic ruffles and lots of butterfly motifs.
Sporty Shades
Thanks to Kim Kardashian and Balenciaga sporty shades were the season’s hottest accessory.
Romantic Ruffles and Roses
Another product of the Y2K resurgence is romantic ruffles and roses. This year we saw the explosion of Fanci Club the brand behind the viral ruffled pieces worn by Bella, Hailey, Doja Cat and more. Rose chokers were also a huge accessory this season.
Balletcore
Thanks to another Miu Miu moment, these shoes went absolutely viral. The brand’s satin ballet flats spearheaded the “balletcore” trend.
Sheer Styles
One of the more daring trends this year, sheer styles were spotted on the runway and the streets.
Sambas Sneakers
The winner of the must-have sneaker of the season goes to the adidas Sambas.
Nostalgic Chokers
We cannot discuss 2022 fashion without mentioning the chokehold (get it) this Good Statement heart choker had on us.
Barbiecore
Courtesy of Valentino’s FW collection “Valentino pink” was born and the Barbiecore trend came along — and is still going strong.
