The year 2022 is all about our hope to transition back as close as possible to normalcy, as we faced the world anew with workleisure ensembles that do not compromise comfort, versatility, and function.
The next year’s fashion necessities were announced by WGSN, a giant trend forecaster comprised of a team of over 250 experts and data scientists that curate an immense online library of insights and inspirations in fashion, retail, and the whole lifestyle industry.
“2022 fashion would be best described as a time for joyful expression,” fashion designer and industry expert Ionica Abraham Lim started, who wished to impart these observations to the public.
“We are now going back to a more tailored look but with a softer approach in materials. We focus on items that we are familiar with but mixed with something that we are looking forward to,” said the educator from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Design and Arts, which utilizes WGSN as a learning tool and experience for its students.
Amid the new hybrid set-up, 2021 trends such as above-the-keyboard dressing and loungewear are now transformed into more defined looks that adapt from work to leisure. Elevated basics that showcase relaxed volumes, handcraft textures, playful digital and organic art prints, layered and oversized details likewise represent optimism and excitement for this new chapter.
Womenswear is leaning on items that are both staycation-and-outdoor-friendly with classic lines and soft textures. The new work set-up calls for business casual in relaxed shapes and more polished looks while the highly anticipated social gatherings make a comeback for playful and textured outfits.
“Familiar silhouettes with innovative design details such as ruching and digital prints made from ethically sourced materials will help raise the classic cuts,” Lim added.
“People are more ready and willing to experiment with new trends that embody their emotions while still looking for practical products that will offer cross functionality,” Lim explained.
“The 2020 trends will help shape our lives as we go into the new normal.”
For multi-purpose accessories, she suggested sunhats and scarves that can double as additional protective wear, as well as statement shoulder bags made from different woven materials that also offer modular elements. Heart motif jewelry likewise balances the negative events.
With a promising year ahead, the trends do not only look at elevated basics and joyful aesthetics but also anticipate diverse and high chroma core colors that will usher in optimistic expressions. For men, clean and crisp lines in natural linens offer an effortless do that go beyond resort wear. Outdoor style in neutral tones plus functional and modular design are also popular head-turners. For the younger market, the interesting clash of prints and punk is sure to exhibit one’s unique personality.
“We are certainly living in an extraordinary time where change happens so quickly more than before but in fashion, these events only lead to more creativity and innovation,” Lim concluded.
Images from WGSN