6 Trends Defining the 2022 Hot Girl Summer Aesthetic

Let's talk about Hot Girl Summer style. What started with a Megan Thee Stallion lyric off the artist's album Tina Snow quickly inspired an entire pop culture movement. And since fashion is intrinsically linked to the cultural zeitgeist, it wasn't long before designers rushed to meet the moment and deliver on the self-confident, unapologetic, and body-positive mood with a slate of sultry style options that celebrities and fashion people are embracing en masse.

If last summer introduced the idea of Hot Girl Summer style, then 2022 is doubling down on the sartorial movement with a fresh lineup of risqué summer trends, and we can't get enough of them. Ahead, we're breaking down the six themes that will have you living your hottest Hot Girl Summer to date (at least through clothing). There's definitely your fair share of gutsy cutouts and bare midriffs but also a few tamer styles that tap into the hot-girl mood.

1. Barbie Pink

One of the more tame trends on this list is a color we have the Y2K revival to thank for bubbling up again: Barbie pink. The pretty shade is inherently fun and flirty but doesn't have to be quite so skin baring (unless you want it to be), which makes it especially easy to incorporate into all your summer outfits.

2. Micro-Mini Hemlines

With hemlines inching higher and rises slinking ever lower, we've arrived at a new barely-there trend, the low-rise miniskirt. While it's definitely not for the faint of heart, pulling off one of these micro minis is a high risk that comes with a high reward.

3. Open-Front Tops

Crop tops are cool and all, but this summer is ushering in a fresh going-out top, and we couldn't be more obsessed. Split-front tops show just a hint of skin without exposing your whole midriff, making them a more effortless option.

4. String-Halter Necklines

If we had to predict a single trend that we think will come to define summer 2022, it's string halters. Whether they're featured on a top, bodysuit, or slinky little dress, these strappy halter necklines have quickly become the It silhouette of the moment.

5. Openwork Crochet

Nothing says Hot Girl Summer quite like a "naked" moment, and right now, openwork crochet is eclipsing any sheer or nude-colored fabric. It's summery, skin baring, and especially well-suited to serve as a swim cover-up.

6. The Hip Dip

Cutouts these days are getting riskier and riskier. Enter a trend we're dubbing the "hip dip." It's a cutout or asymmetric hemline that exposes a single hip bone on one side. It's bold, it's eye-catching, and it's not for the faint of heart.

Speaking of summer, read our ultimate guide to your chicest vacation yet.