Every season, our favourite fashion merchants receive a fresh batch of soon-to-be blockbusters. It can be challenging to decide which items to “add to basket” when there are so many summer 2022 trends and goods to keep up with. In our New Arrivals series, we ask the buyers, editors, and fashion insiders at our favourite stores for their recommendations on the greatest items to add to your wardrobe this season.
Summer is undoubtedly the trendiest season, featuring everything from bloomer shorts to heart-shaped sunglasses and cargo denim pants. But which summer trends will still be popular years from now when you go on vacation and which ones will fade into obscurity by then? We consulted buyers and specialists from some of the most well-known retailers to learn the inside scoop on the best summer essentials to stock up on.
This trend cycle continues to be led by the party girl look. According to Olivela Chief Merchant Maria Milano, “Summer activities are back in full swing and with them comes a desire to dress to the nines.” “Double focus on your partywear aesthetic right now. We’re making up for lost time, after all.” If micro little skirts and party dresses aren’t your thing, you can still participate in the fun by wearing sequins and sparkling materials. “High-shine accents have become a go-to for giving summer essentials a whimsical makeover, affirms Arielle Siboni, director of ready-to-wear fashion at Bloomingdale’s. “Whether you’re going to a wedding or hitting the beach, sequins, lurex, and crystal embellishments are the best ways to liven up your attire.”
Make crochet or raffia your go-to textures if you’re wanting to invest in new ones this season. According to Libby Page, senior market editor at Net-A-Porter, “they are the star players this summer, and knit dresses and clashing prints are an easy way to reinterpret the trend.” In contrast, more is more when it comes to bathing suits, with “this summer all about sensual and fun styles in bright colours, sequins, and cut-outs.” Additionally, upside-down bikinis are once again in style.
Bandanas and edgy shoes and bags are at the top of the list of essential accessories. According to Jodi Kahn, vice president of luxury fashion at Neiman Marcus, “this summer, it’s all about making a statement, and a premium pair of platform heels is the perfect way to stand out.” “An off-duty clothing can be easily transformed into a glam ensemble by adding intricate patterns and vibrantly coloured shoes.” The head of womenswear at Matches Fashion, Liane Wiggins, recommends a purse with crystal embellishments: They’ve been really popular this season, and we expect this to continue as our customers look for unique things to wear to all of their summer gatherings and occasions.
Bandanas
“The silk headscarf tied bandana-style evokes just the right amount of nostalgia for the Noughts and is a fantastic method to cover up unattractive beach hair or flyways on a windy day! The greatest versions are provided by Versace and Pucci; just make sure the fabrics are vibrant, silky, and have vibrant patterns.” — Harriet Hawksworth, Editor-in-Chief of Farfetch
Summer Suiting
“We adore the waistcoat and tailored trouser pairs in neutral tones for a contemporary take on suits this summer. They are ideal for wearing to work with a flatform or out on the town with a heel.” — Liane Wiggins, Head of Womenswear at Matches Fashion.
Crochet Fashion
“Crochet is one of my favourite trends for summer in ready-to-wear and handbags. The seasonal fabrication feels like a fresh yet nostalgic trend that functions as an eye-catching complement to your summer wardrobe.” — Arielle Siboni, director of ready-to-wear fashion at Bloomingdale’s
Sherbet Shades
“The sherbet colours, which range from pistachio and strawberry to lemon and lilac, are very exciting and lively. Customers can choose to wear these hues separately for a monochrome look or all together for a bolder outfit.” — Caroline Maguire, Director of Fashion at Shopbop
Statement Swimwear
“After several seasons of tasteful neutrals, swimwear needs to make a statement. This summer’s collection of statement swimwear cleverly doubles as ready-to-wear; just add a pair of high-waisted jeans, fluid cotton pants, or a jersey midi skirt for a truly versatile and vacation-ready look. Designs range from bold prints to skin-flashing cut-outs and even sequin embellished bikinis.” – Maria Milano, Chief Merchant at Olivela
Jeweled Shoes
“In the summer, hemlines are shorter, putting shoes on display. This year, lively, jewelled statement shoes are selling quite well, and the range of available looks has increased this summer. Any outfit looks colourful and joyful with these kinds of shoes.” — Tracy Margolies, Chief Merchandising Officer at Saks Fifth Avenue
Daytime Sequins
“There are so many exciting summer trends I can’t wait to explore, but the one I’m most looking forward to is sprucing up a day outfit with sequins or shine,” the author said. Divya Mathur, Chief Merchant for Intermix
Party Dresses
“It’s time to go bare with a daring mini-dress or bodycon silhouettes when the temperatures rise. Skin reveal is a top summer style, and it’s made popular by electrifying hues, seductive cutouts, and translucent materials.” — Kate Bellman, managing fashion editor at Nordstrom
Warm-Weather Workwear
In the hot summer months, choosing work clothes can be challenging; frequently, less is more. Simple tank tops, cotton skirts, fitted vests, and wide-leg slacks should serve as the cornerstone of your season’s wardrobe. — Libby Page, Senior Market Editor at Net-A-Porter
Silver Punk Jewelry
“Every great outfit starts with contrast, and summer’s whimsy frequently calls for a “edge.” Think of the winter version of the stompy boot. This year, heavy rocker rings, stacked silver hoops, and hefty silver chains will provide some much-needed flair to your flowy dresses.” — Harriet Hawksworth, Editor-in-Chief of Farfetch
