From the comfort (or confine) of our homes, we’ve virtually watched on as our Northern Hemisphere counterparts hosted one of the most historic fashion months of our time. In a post-pandemic world, those not in the know could view the exercise of presenting collections in real life as a frivolous affair, however those aware of the magnitude of this trillion dollar industry will have an understanding of the economic and creative impacts fashion month has had.
What a month it was. The return of in-person shows also marked the return of street style, front rows, backstage drama, fabulous beauty looks and of course preeminent Spring/Summer 2022 collections for the season ahead.
Commencing in New York, we saw the debut of Peter Do, returns to New York from Rodarte, Thom Browne and Tom Ford and a surprise appearance from Moschino, all heralding a new guard of New York style – one that is rooted in utilitarian codes and nostalgic principles.
Across the pond at London Fashion Week, designers we’re less ambitious in delivering a spectacle in front of an audience, with some of the most prolific designers opting for digital presentations, including Matty Bovan, Vivienne Westwood, J.W Anderson and Burberry. However that’s not to say they didn’t put on a show (or a party). Newcomers including Chet Lo, KNWLS, Nensi Dojka and Rejina Pyo fiercely championed emerging and underground brands, with avant garde designs and forward thinking standards.
In Milan and Paris, we saw a return to tradition, with many luxury houses including Fendi, Prada, Dior and Saint Laurent looking to the past for inspiration and influence for their collections. Conventions were reinvented with finesse and flair for the unknown future ahead. The swap between Kim Jones and Donatella Versace was a standout, along with the 10th anniversary show of Olivier Rousteing’s tenure at Balmain were highlights.
Whilst there were a few takeaways from this fashion month, one sticks out in our minds – fashion is marching by the beat of it’s own drum.
So, what trends from the runways are we coveting? New shapes and silhouettes are always a welcome addition to our wardrobe and with the weather warming, we’re looking forward to letting our guard down, donning free flowing, lightweight fabrics and keeping our spirits high.
For all the notable trends spotted on the international runways of New York, London, Milan and Paris, along with options to shop now continue reading below.
Unexpected Layering
Since the early 2000’s the styling of dresses over pants has been a mainstay within the cultural zeitgeist. It’s a look that Molly Goddard has since perfected. In her recent SS/22 collection Molly layered puff-sleeve, peplum tops over fresh, indigo washed denim on both men and woman. Molly completed the look with contrasting bucket hats for a contemporary street-chic look. At Rejina Pyo a similar look is achieved, this time with the perfect pair of sand coloured trousers and an exaggerated maxi dress.
Wardrobe.NYC Cotton-poplin Shirt Dress, $875.97 at NET-A-PORTER
DÔEN Frede Ruffled Checked Ramie Mini Dress, $387.86 at NET-A-PORTER
Knitted Flare Tights, $180 at bassike
Abstract Prints
More than other seasons, Spring and Summer is an opportunity to explore new cuts and colours. In recent years, we’ve seen gingham, houndstooth and argyle prints crop up in unique hues and styles, and at fashion month, designers are taking abstract prints to the next level. At Altuzarra tie-dye was given a 90’s twist with maxi skirts and cropped cardigans dipped and dyed in a wash of psychedelic greens and reds. Brandon Maxwell went one step further, adorning his designs with an array of hypnosis wheels. Are you memremised yet?
Proenza Schouler Tie-dyed Cotton-jersey Top, $451.54 at NET-A-PORTER
Paco Rabanne Tie-dyed Satin Maxi Skirt, $862.58 at NET-A-PORTER
Miu Miu Houndstooth Wool And Cotton-blend Bouclé-tweed Dress, $1,494 at THE OUTNET
Stripes
Stripes are no longer just Breton. Balmain, Marni, and Missoni all heavily featured striped designs throughout their collections. Whether it be horizontal, vertical or diagonal, be sure to select your orientation carefully as they pose the ability to elongate your figure.
Lee Mathews Striped Ribbed-knit Maxi Dress, $425 at My Theresa
Staud Seashore Striped Ribbed Cotton-blend Midi Dress, $409.01 at NET-A-PORTER
Benny Shirt, $229 at Blanca
Colour Blocking
From Tom Ford to Dior, Versace to Richard Quinn, colour blocking is back in a big way. Tom Ford and Versace utilized electric 80’s-esque fluorescent hues, whilst Dior dialled it back with classic primary colours. This style is equally effortless as it is easy to accomplish, and most of the time your closet is the best place to start.
Crushed Halter Dress, $220 at Venroy
Cee-Cee Dress Citrus Rib, $149.50 at Hansen & Gretel
Jacquemus Arancia Ribbed-knit Shorts, $242.46 at NET-A-PORTER
Body Conscious
This trend was one that excited our Fashion Editor Naomi Smith most. “One of the biggest trends in recent years has oversized masculine style dressing. Moving forward I’m excited to see a return to more feminine silhouettes, body conscious attire and shorter hems. The open back dresses at Prada are a perfect example – a beautiful combination of strictness with softness”.
Saint Laurent Latex Leggings, $1,056 at NET-A-PORTER
Paris Dress, $429 at St. Agni
Celena Cross Back Dress, $380 at SIR
Micro Skirts
This season, designers are urging for the fabled 90’s micro skirt trend to make a comeback. You know the ones that were almost nonexistent? Miu Miu left hemlines cropped and raw for the modern business woman whereas Chanel showcased our favourite Karl-isms from the supermodel era in the form of matching tweed sets.
Macrame Mini Skirt, $550 at Dion Lee
Gucci Square G Check Tweed Skirt, $1,600 at Farfetch
1017 ALYX 9SM Belted Satin Miniskirt, $646 at Farfetch
