Top 10 Fashion Trends for Summer 2022

Barbiecore is the hottest fashion trend of summer 2022, with searches up by a whopping 127% on image sharing platform, Pinterest… 

With summer finally here, now is the perfect time to give your wardrobe a refreshing new boost. However, if you’re not sure where to start, the research team at WeThrift, have uncovered the fashion trends dominating Pinterest this season.

1. Barbiecore 

The trend ‘Barbiecore’ is dominating social media, with users searching for new ways to incorporate the ‘Barbie aesthetic’ into their lives, with a massive search volume increase of 127% on Pinterest during the last month alone. 

Nick Drewe, Trend Expert at WeThrift says, “Barbiecore is everywhere this summer. We first spotted the trend taking heavy influence over the Valentino Pink PP Collection, followed by Margot Robbie channelling Barbie in her latest movie with Ryan Gosling. Now the style is making its way into the wardrobes of a-list celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Megan Fox, Lizzo, Hailey Bieber and more. 

“The style is all about looking pretty in pink. We’re seeing lots of matching pink sets, monochromatic looks and feminine silhouettes. Brands like Maison Valentino and Miu Miu have also started to incorporate the signature core trend into their fashion lines, embracing colourful prints and textures that incorporate the modern characteristics of Barbiecore.” 

2. Coastal grandmother

Coastal grandmother is the latest aesthetic dominating Pinterest and TikTok. So, what does the trend entail? Nick Drewe, Trend Specialist says: “In simple terms the coastal grandmother aesthetic is a mix of striped sweaters, collared shirts and cardigans.

“Essentially, the aesthetic is about embracing the body and feeling comfortable. The trend sits close to the old money aesthetic, a category that has rapidly grown in popularity over the last few years. But the coastal grandmother is not exclusive to age, gender or race, in fact it embodies a positive and laid back approach.”

3. Biker shorts

Biker shorts have been around for years, but now they’re making a big comeback as the trend is resurfacing rapidly. The look has been seen on respected royals such as Princess Diana, and in more recent years the Kardashian/Jenners have also been papped wearing biker shorts.

Today biker shorts are not just for working out, they are an essential part of your wardrobe and can be worn in many different ways. Whether you wear them with a dad blazer or sweatshirt, you can be sure to get a lot of use out of them. 

4. Cargo shorts

Shorts are a staple piece for the summer, so it is no surprise that they are mentioned more than once in this list. This year we have seen cargos make a big return in the fashion world and we are here for it, from cargo skirts to cargo shorts, there has never been a better time to jump on this trend. 

Cargo shorts are perfect for the summertime as they give you the breathing room that regular cargos might not, whilst still achieving a cool, comfortable look that can be dressed up or down. 

5. White skirts

White skirts are increasingly popular in the summer season, the colour white has a strong place in summer fashion. Searches for white skirts have most likely grown due to the rise in tennis skirts and the athleisure aesthetic. There are multiple ways to wear white skirts, the key is to look for varying textures and fabrics to figure out what really works for you. 

“Whether you want to go for a micro mini skirt, tennis skirt or maxi skirt, pairing gold accessories with white can elevate your look.”

6. Maxi skirts  

While the micro-mini skirts remain a firm favourite for many, it’s maxi skirts that are taking the lead this summer. “Maxi skirts allow movement which is important for the warmer months, instead of feeling restricted in jeans, leggings or bodycon skirts.” 

With the warmer months fast approaching, a sheer or netted maxi skirt is ideal for the hot weather and also vacations abroad. 

Top tip: If you want to style this trend, try it with a cropped tank top for a relaxed everyday look, or try styling it with a blouse for the office. 

7. Green tank top  

Just like last season green has resurfaced once more, adding an unforgettable element to any outfit. This shade seems to roll back around every summer, with this year being no exception; it’s all about that intense, vibrant vibe. It certainly isn’t your classic shade, but people are implementing it into their wardrobe in an ‘easy to wear’ way. 

“Bold tones have dominated the street style scenes for the last few years and show no sign of slowing down. A green tank top has a lot more versatility than you can imagine. 

8. Mini bag

Mini bags are one of the hottest trends this season and this fashion trend is loved by minimalists. Though they are not the most practical if you like to store many things in your hand bag, they certainly are a statement piece to add to your summer wardrobe. 

If you prefer to put the focus on your actual outfit rather than your accessories, a mini bag is the perfect pick for you. If you want a high quality piece, you might want to opt for a Jacquemus or Marc Jacobs mini bag. Or if you are looking for something more affordable, sites like ASOS and Missguided have a plethora of mini bags to choose from. 

9. Satin

Over the recent years we’ve seen the use of satin spread through the fashion industry like wildfire, although it has always been a prominent fabric in luxury fashion. 

We have seen the rise of satin in various areas of fashion such as satin bags, heels, shirts, dresses, hair accessories and more. 

Celebs and influencers alike have rocked this trend and have been seen wearing this trend all over social media, whether you want to go for a classy look when wearing satin or a dressed down look. Adding satin to your summer wardrobe is a worthy investment. 

10. Crochet Tops

Once popular in the ‘70s, crochet fashion has now made a huge comeback on social media. Brands have taken inspiration from the bohemian aesthetic and have modernised the crochet technique, offering a fresh new take. 

“Combined with the obsession with all things handmade and sustainable, it comes as no surprise that crochet is set to be one of spring’s biggest trends.” Nick Drewe.

Top Tip: If you want to experiment with this trend, try looking on sites such as Depop or Vinted for affordable crochet tops

Charlotte Giver

Charlotte is the founder and editor-in-chief at Your Coffee Break magazine. She studied English Literature at Fairfield University in Connecticut whilst taking evening classes in journalism at MediaBistro in NYC. She then pursued a BA degree in Public Relations at Bournemouth University in the UK. With a background working in the PR industry in Los Angeles, Barcelona and London, Charlotte then moved on to launching Your Coffee Break from the YCB HQ in London’s Covent Garden and has been running the online magazine for the past 10 years. She is a mother, an avid reader, runner and puts a bit too much effort into perfecting her morning brew.