Trend Watch: Spring Summer 2022

The micro-trends you need to know about for the new year

New year new me, we all say as we will ourselves to get through the January blues. But with a new year comes a chance to refresh your look with a host of new trends, looks and inspo which comes around with every new season. Chillie London have rounded up our top picks for 2022 dressing.

Twee-revival

Remember 500 Days of Summer, Tumblr circa 2012, Skater skirts, Peter Pan collars and Kooky accessories, usually featuring some sort of owl, why was it always an owl? Whilst you might turn your nose up at the thought of dressing like you did ten years ago, fear not, this long-forgotten aesthetic is seeing a seriously stylish update for the 2020's.

Characterised by pieces full of whimsy, ala classic Wes Anderson flicks. But for a contemporary update swap slip on flats and loafers for heeled ballet pumps and platform lace-up brogues, garishly patterned tights for retro sporty socks, frilly collars for oversized puff sleeves and matronly pastel swing dresses for sleek A-line tea dresses. But don't be afraid to add in those elements of classic chintz: wool berets, woodland-inspired embroidery detailing, bows, polkadots and muted pastels.

Indie Sleaze

Another revival from the seemingly bygone 2010's, think of Indie Sleaze as Twee-Revival's slightly more edgy older cousin. A mix of 90's grunge with 80's glam-rock and 2010's hipster aesthetics. Think Kate Moss at Glasto, the Indie Sleaze poster girl Alexa Chung, Sky Ferreira and Daisy Lowe.

Emulate this trend with just rolled out of bed after a night on the tiles chic; smudged eyeliner, plaid shirts, ripped jeans, worn in cowboy boots paired with lurex knits, military-inspired embellishment, retro sportswear, relaxed men's tailoring and tarnished silver jewellery. An actual hangover is an optional accessory.

Mini Mania

Ever since Miu Miu's S/S 22 runway show all the way back in October the micro mini has been making a comeback in a big way. Combining 90's supermodel sex appeal and contemporary silhouettes - the micro mini may seem like a daunting piece to add to your repertoire, and if it's not your thing then no pressure, but if you're daring to make the snip to your hemline then read on.

Whilst we love Miu Miu's bare-legged khaki offering, the micro mini can be worn and styled in a multitude of ways to suit any style and stature. Not feeling like whipping your pins out all at once? tights are your best friend, layer a floor-sweeping duster over the top, or add knee high boots to cover up. Not a fan of the classic pleated school skirt shape? opt for an uber sexy mini dress, or even a longer skirt with a daringly high leg split.

Elevated Loungewear

Despite the UK's last formal lockdown lifting almost a year ago and work from home orders being all but scrapped, we're still not quite ready to abandon the art of comfortable dressing we've perfected over the last two years of Zoom calls, Teams meetings and Virtual Xmas drinks. Formal enough to pass at the office and on the commute, comfy enough to make you feel like you're lounging on the sofa and so chic you'll feel like you're walking the runway at Paris fashion week.

Think soft yet structured; gauzy linen, cozy fleece knits, wide leg trousers, silky two pieces and concealed elastic waistbands in neutral shades ranging from off white to head-to-toe black. We love to style our comfy staples with head-turning jewellery, sneakers and top it off with a relaxed trench coat.