We're almost at the end of 2022, and boy, what an interesting year it's been. Looking back, there was no shortage of defining trends that took the fashion world by storm, including nostalgic styles that staged a surprise comeback and a fascinating new craze that had everyone dressing up like a doll. So before we wrap up the year, we figured a proper shoutout is in order. Ahead, we list down the biggest fashion trends of 2022.
1. Barbiecore
Let's start with the obvious, shall we? Our Instagram feeds bled pink this year with the rise of Barbiecore. The trend, which may have been triggered by both Pierpaolo Piccioli's "Valentino Pink" and the upcoming Greta Gerwig film, has had fashion girls everywhere literally getting all dolled up and swathing themselves in pink. It's a Barbie world, after all!
2. Cinderella Shoes
There was no shortage of fashion powerhouses who rocked a pair of Amina Muaddi's ubiquitous Rosie stilettos this year, from the likes of Heart Evangelista to Sarah Lahbati. The PVC heels, which resemble that of Cinderella's proverbial glass slippers, are also a popular choice among brides. Another celeb favorite is Mach & Mach's take on PVC shoe trend, which comes with a crystal-embellished bow for that extra pizzazz.
3. Chunky Platform Heels
If the It girls aren't wearing PVC pumps, chances are, they're donning a pair of sky-high platform heels that have seen a resurgence this 2022. The Spice Girl-esque steppers have been given a fab makeover by fashion houses like Versace and Valentino, finding a place once again in the coveted shoe closets of fashionistas around the world.
4. Upside-Down Bikini
In case you missed it (we're sure you didn't), celebrities have been wearing their bikinis upside-down. And yup, it's very much intentional! The swimsuit trend was initially greenlit by supermodels Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber, and soon after, every other cool beach babe followed suit. Locally, we have the likes of Sue Ramirez and Michelle Dy who also can't get enough of the inverted bikini look.
5. Floss Bikini
Another swimsuit trend that took the fashion world by storm this year is the floss bikini, which we first spotted on the likes of Kylie Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Lizzo, and Emily Ratajkowski. Also referred to as the wrap-around bikini trend, this sexy swimwear style is all about accentuating the waist with a dramatic criss-cross of long straps.
6. Y2K Butterfly Tops
If you thought you've seen the last of Mariah Carey's iconic butterfly top from the '90s, well, you're in for a shocker. Thanks to Dua Lipa and Olivia Rodrigo, the nostalgic piece is back with a vengeance and has been reborn in different iterations—bedazzled with rhinestones like Anne Curtis', sequined like Andrea Brillantes', or even crocheted Kylie Verzosa's. Take your pick!
7. Academia Aesthetic
Originally a TikTok subculture, the academia aesthetic has many categories: dark, light, romantic, chaotic—you name it! But in general, it's characterized by that preppy schoolgirl style elements like blazers, pleated skirts, knee-high socks, loafers, collared tops, and all things plaid. Think Cher Horowitz, but in the age of Instagram.
8. Soft Goth
Making it just in time for the 2022 fashion trends roundup is the soft goth look, all thanks to Jenna Ortega's flawless portrayal of Wednesday Addams in the Netflix spinoff. Alternatively, it's also referred to as Wednesday-core. Think of it as a generally more aesthetic grunge update on the '80s goth fashion trend, made a lot less emo to appeal to the mainstream audience. Pigtail braids optional.
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