In a world where flared jeans rocketed from frumpy to fashionable, and Bermuda shorts are making a comeback, anything is possible in the fashion industry. With double denim and socks and crocs becoming increasingly stylish, it seems the only fixed rule in fashion is that trends always repeat themselves. This is particularly true in today’s eco conscious culture where thrifting and vintage clothing is the new designer. As purse strings are tightening, and temperatures are rising, I expect the throng of thrifters will continue to grow and retro classics from the 60s to the 90s will resurge. Fashion majors across TikTok are posting their style predictions for Autumn 2022; it seems casual outfits blended with workwear, and colour pops could dominate the season.
Zip-off trousers with graphic tees
Colourful cargo pants have been huge this year, and celebrities including Emma Chamberlain, Bella Hadid and Sadie Sink have spring-boarded long Bermuda shorts back into popularity. As temperatures are fluctuating and climate change is urging people to reuse their clothing, I expect these trends will lead to zip off trousers making a comeback. You know, the geography-teacher-esque trousers that zip off into shorts which you wore on DofE. Another classic thrift shop item, I reckon graphic tees with random slogans and images will pair well with this to form the ultimate comfort fit; essentially we will all be dressing like Adam Sandler and I’m not mad about it.
Casual workwear and knitted sets
From collared shirts to brogues, this year, workwear has taken off. I have particularly been revelling in the reign of the power-suit, as brightly coloured suits have become a popular alternative to dresses at fancy events. I believe these polished looks will carry into Autumn 2022, and may adopt a more casual twist. As we transition from Summer to Autumn, I think the blazer and shorts combo could become trendy. Clark’s originals could definitely overtake Doc Martens and pair well with this. Following the rise of the sweater vest, I expect we will also be seeing waistcoats on the runway; these could be sleek smart button ups or casual knitted pieces.
Knitwear and crochet in general will undoubtedly be huge this winter, as handmade clothing is being celebrated more and more. I expect we’ll be seeing a lot of matching knitwear sets whether it be hat, scarf, and mitten combos or bolder jumper and jogger sets.
Dopamine dressing and colour pops
Vibrant Y2K looks this year have proven that fun clothes can bring a much needed sprinkle of nostalgia and brightness, even when the news headlines seem rather bleak. Dopamine dressing, or wearing contrasting bright block coloured outfits could be the next radiant trend. I expect the 2022 colour craze could adopt a 60s edge this Autumn as whimsical mod prints are creeping back into style. Alternatively, I think more minimalist dressers will be combining neutral tones with pops of colour through bright nails, lipstick and accessories. As the Taylor Swift song reminds us, a classic red lip never goes out of style. This Autumn, perhaps the 90s thin scarf will return and provide this colour pop. We may also see it being used as a belt in true 90s fashion.
Ultimately, the fashion landscape at the moment is promising. Layering, individuality and sustainability is in, and those who were once labelled ‘weird’ in school are rejoicing as second hand and handmade clothing is finally being celebrated not sneered at.