And Now, the Micro-Trends You Need to Know in 2022

Sometimes, you've got to dig a little deeper. That certainly rings true on the subject of sourcing trends. We've already touched on the foremost fashion themes circulating as the new season inches closer, but now, we're getting into the trends on the verge of a major breakthrough.

A lot of you may already be familiar with what we call a micro-trend here at Who What Wear—a trend still early in its infancy that is so prevailing among tastemakers and designers that it's only a matter of time before it really takes off. The six micro-trends we're highlighting below have made some waves that really made us stop and take notice, from striking sheer separates to Gaultier-esque screen prints. Early adopters, take note—you'll want to watch this space. 

Anatomical Forms

What's old is new, and that definitely applies to '90s style. Along with Vivienne Westwood, Jean Paul Gaultier is a cult designer Gen Z has recently rediscovered and has been fixated on, manifesting in a resurgence of anatomical screen prints. This trend hasn't hit the stage where it's readily available just yet, but a few indie brands like GirlsGirlsGirlsbyGracie and Forbidden Kn0wledge have cemented their place as go-to sources for body-form pieces. Y/Project's A/W 22 menswear collection featured a slew of these types of prints, so yeah, it's only a matter of time before they pop up at Zara.

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Track Jackets

This micro-trend took a little bit more effort to notice because, quite honestly, tracksuits and the sporty aesthetic are continual favorites among the fashion set. It's one of those trends that's seemingly hidden in plain sight. Lately, we've seen fashion people embrace track jackets by styling them with loose cargo pants and high heels. The result feels more intentional and elevated than PE class. We think it's a really fun take on a widely worn item that's simple enough to interpret for yourself.

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Corset Coordination

We've flagged the comeback of corsets before, but this year, it's all about wearing them in full-scale coordination in a matching set. Miaou has been at the forefront of this micro-trend with a plethora of corset sets in exciting prints and colors, but other brands have slowly been doing the same. One of our favorites is House of CB's sultry matching corset and silk maxi skirt—it's been a go-to night-out look for many and likely will be seen all of 2022.

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Wedge Boots

While you were sleeping, wedge boots were making their return to the scene. The reigning silhouette seems to be point-toe wedge boots, which feel decidedly sleeker and cooler than the versions of years past. We haven't bought a pair yet, but you better believe they're on our wish list.

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Micro Minis

Arguably the most talked-about trend on this list, micro minis catapulted onto the scene at the end of last year thanks to Miu Miu's showstopping S/S 22 show. In record time, affordable versions have popped up on the market, but we have a feeling this is only the beginning. 

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Transparent Pieces

By now, you should know it's not a micro-trend roundup without the inclusion of something risque. Last year, it was keyhole cutouts, and this year is shaping up to be the season of sheer, nude-illusion pieces. This trend definitely lands on the more daring side, but with some good undergarments, it can be a striking element to contrast your staples.

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Next up: I Check Shopbop's New Arrivals Every Week—These 45 Staples Are Wildly Satisfying