The Winter 2022 Style Report: 11 Trends to Try This Season
Ulla Johnson Medha top available from Nines Apparel.
As cold temperatures set in, it’s time to turn our attention to our winter wardrobes. A new season is a perfect time to assess sartorial needs and make updates to stay current, and to help us navigate the fashion landscape for the upcoming months, we turned to four style pros to learn about the latest trends (think: a return to the art of truly dressing) and how to incorporate them into our everyday ensembles. From the return of bold prints to fantastic embellishments, here are 11 trends to embrace in winter 2022.
Brown is the new black. While black will always be a classic, this season, earthy brown tones are reigning supreme. Kelly Blackburn, owner of Nines Apparel in Midland, Texas, is seeing lots of chocolate, tobacco, mocha, and cognac hues, not only in typical leather boots and headbands, but also in sweaters, dresses, and blouses.
Tanya Taylor Viola dress available from Nines Apparel.
It’s time to get dressed. There’s no denying that there is a wellspring of excitement about the return of parties. As social calendars start to fill, Blackburn says it’s only natural to turn to the vast array of party dresses that were ubiquitous on the runways. From strapless numbers to classic silhouettes, plus a variety of embellishments from puff sleeves to sequins, there are plenty of options for when it’s time to slip on something extra-special and hit the town.
Ulla Johnson Rhea cardigan available from Nines Apparel.
The cardigan makes a comeback. Once the hallmark of late 90s sweater set style, cardigans are once again a great option this winter. Blackburn likes to style them worn alone, without any visible garments underneath, to create a chic, elevated look. Or you can always make it your got-to layer over t-shirts and leggings.
Rebecca Minkoff Sandra leather pant available from French Cuff Boutique.
Fall in love with leather. From faux to real, leather is here to stay this season. Kairy-tate Barkley, founder of French Cuff Boutique in Houston, Texas, reports that leather looks are showing up in pants, tops, and blazers for winter. Make a statement with a full leather dress or tone it down with a blazer or top with smaller leather details.
Misa Winona dress available from French Cuff Boutique.
Shine on. As people start venturing out more, the desire to truly dress up is likely to become stronger than ever. From satiny fabrics to sequin accents, Barkley observes more sparkly statement pieces are coming on the scene, in everything from diamond accessories to dresses with lots of shimmer.
Milly Veronia feather Cady dress available from French Cuff Boutique.
Flock together. According to Barkley, feathers were one of the biggest embellishments seen on runways from New York to Milan this year. Whether you choose to dip a toe into the trend with earrings or fully embrace this femme element with a flapper-eque dress, this bold look is party-ready.
Tibi Celia drape pull-on jogger available from The Hive.
Elevated joggers. Looking to upgrade—rather than replace—your favorite casual look? You’re in luck. “Last year we lived in our athleisure, but this year it is all about still wearing these pieces, but in more refined cuts and luxurious fabrics,” says Elizabeth Todd, owner and founder of The Shoe Hive and The Hive in Alexandria, Virginia. The ubiquitous jogger is ready to step into this role, showing up in fabrics with shine and fluidity. Many designers are coming out with matching tops, creating some of the most chic and wearable outfits around.
AGL Virna stretch bootie available from The Shoe Hive.
Mid-calf boots have their moment. According to Todd, this year the flattering and versatile mid-calf boot steps into the spotlight. Casual and formal boots with varying heights and materials all have their place, and options about for winter 2022.
Hunter Bell Jenkins dress available from The Hive.
Brighten up. “I’ve been in retail more than 18 years and I have never seen brighter colors during the winter time that we do this year,” Todd observes. “We all need a little something bright and cheery these days, so I am here for it!” Get ready for a myriad of bright shades, like this full-wattage bright pink dress, to make their way into your wardrobe this season.
Ulla Johnson Neema blouse available from Lusso.
Go for an exaggerated shoulder. The trend that had its heyday in the 80s and has been on the rise for the past couple of years is still going strong. Maeghan Moeller, owner of Lusso in Saint Louis, Missouri, points once again to the emergence of this accent as a current desire to feel more put together in our everyday attire. The trend translates to dramatically wide or padded shoulders, but is most prevalent and approachable as a big puff sleeve. “This beautiful, feminine silhouette looks amazing paired with pants, and it’s totally wearable for a less dressy lifestyle,” she says.
Hunter Bell ikat top available from Lusso.
Great prints will make you giddy. The fashion world has decided it’s time to get happy, and big, bold, prints are here to help boost our moods. “Splashy prints also elevate your style,” Moeller notes. “Something we’re all looking for these days. From ikat to florals, and everything in between, large prints translate to a fun yet sophisticated look.”
Nines Apparel will appear in The Scout Guide West Texas. French Cuff Boutique appears in The Scout Guide Houston. The Shoe Hive and The Hive appear in The Scout Guide Alexandria. Lusso appears in The Scout Guide Saint Louis.
