As the first year in the post-pandemic world, 2022 turned out well for fashion trends. Designers and stylists debuted new looks, celebrities experimented, and runways shone — from interesting silhouettes, and accessories to finer fabrics. We list the best of the year.

HEAVY ON VELVET

Fashion witnessed a heavy resurgence of velvet everything such as suits, turtlenecks, outerwear, and accessories. Jared Leto and Andrew Garfield wore sleek velvet tuxedoes with polka dots by Gucci. Similarly, Timothée Chalamet debuted his most daring look yet — a Haider Ackermann’s custom jumpsuit in red. The fabric brings a lustre and lively look even if it is as basic as an overcoat. For celebrating Christmas and New Year, include some bits of velvet along with shiny embellishments, and you’re ready to take over. The trend was also present at runways — robes at Etro, blazers and trousers at Magliano, and coats at Officine Generale.

GOING SHIRTLESS

Suiting up has always been big, but this year, ditching the shirt is the new twist. Debuted by celebrities such as Simu Liu, Shawn Mendes, Harry Styles, Jonah Hill, and Lil Nas X as well as seen on the runways of Dries Van Noten, Louis Vuitton, Heron Preston, and Balmain, it is safe to say that going shirtless and just putting on a suit on its own or blazer jacket is an ultimate hit.

EASY SUITING

Ditching the regular suit is the new norm of 2022. A relaxed or loose eased down suit has taken over this season. It’s functional — comfort is the goal here — without comprising style, obviously. These unstructured pieces are less rigorous and easy to move around, a perfect option for year-end parties or Sunday brunches if looking for a plush look. Seen at Zegna, Giorgio Armani, The Row, Prada, Versace, and others, loose suits have also been a staple on red carpets in ’22.

TRICKY KNITWEAR

Knitwear has evolved over the years and doesn’t just exist in the sweater category anymore. In 2022, knits are more than just a basic sweater. The designers are adding structural elements, childhood-inspired prints, and add-on architectural touches to these knits. At Prada and Etro, roll-neck sweaters featured elongated shoulders, while JW Anderson had knitted chains as an additional bit and Dior had floral embellishments throughout. The best thing about these knits is that they can be worn individually or can be experimented with other bold accessories and trousers.

POP-COLOURED TOUCH

of any clothing. From vibrant summer hues to neon and pastels, to energetic shades such as cobalt blue, bright purple and green, every designer has been including a section of such colours in their collections — doesn’t matter if it is summer or fall collection — these pop tones are permanent. Spotted on the runways of Dior Homme, Louis Vuitton, Jacquemus, Paul Smith, Jil Sanders, Off-White, and Versace — it’s clear that pop is back. If you aren’t willing to go monochrome with these bold shades, then add a pop accessory such as a crossbody bag, shirt, bandana or hat.

PRINT GALORE

Initially, prints were restricted to spring and summer. Now, with a variety of prints in the forms of tie-dye, sketches, patchwork, graffiti, geometric figures, and abstract artwork taking over, these myriad prints bring a higher meaning of art to fashion. Go bold with print on print or inculcate a single printed piece in your look. Take inspiration from these sartorial men such as Ranveer Singh, Harry Styles, Childish Gambino, Ayushmann Khurrana, A$AP Rocky, Justin Bieber, Shawn Mendes, and others, who know how to do prints.

SHEER ON

One of the boldest trends to embrace the year is see-through. If you are confident enough to pull this off, you can master anything in fashion. Sheer tops and overshirts are here to stay. These tops don’t necessarily need to be worn on their own. Start by layering it over a patterned or plain tank or under an oversized jacket. Recently, actor Ishaan Khatter went for a sheer embellished top that was paired with blazer and trousers of the same shade. Whichever way you choose to wear it, the sheer touch adds depth and texture to your look — and we are here for it.

SEE-THROUGH SUNNIES

A big trend in the late ’80s and ’90s, coloured seethrough sunglasses have made a comeback. Ditch the classic blacks for a laidback vibe and go for these transparent-hued shades. Luxury labels such as Gucci, Ray-Ban, Prada, and Fendi have introduced a range of futuristic designs and coloured lenses, which are also a great way to start experimenting with new shapes if you’re a bit hesitant.

A YEAR OF DESIGNER COLLABORATIONS

’Tis the year of collaborations. From Fendi x Versace aka Fendace, Yeezy Gap Engineered by Balenciaga, Nike x Jacquemus, Balmain x Barbie, Burberry x Supreme, Adidas x Gucci and a lot more has been successfully collaborating by infusing elements of both fashion houses to bring in unique and collector-worthy items. From statement bombers, sneakers, handbags, and sandals, to everyday clothing, these brands have created a demand for all fashion enthusiasts.

NECK ACCESSORIES

Everything that goes around the neck is popular. Bandanas, enamel jewellery, platinum chains, multi-layered pearl necklaces, pendants, brooches, bowties, and scarves can be added to notch up your look. This season has been getting a lot of attention towards the full range of neck pieces and accessories on runways as well as on celebrities on the red carpets.

OPEN FOOTWEAR

Everyone loves sneakers but at times, it is cool to call quits on this enclosed footwear. Go for airy pair of loafers or sandals that let your feet breathe. Timeless footwear, that can be worn effortlessly while running errands or discovering a new city. The versatility of sandals and loafers make them easy to pair up with and can be worn at any time of the day.