We're a few weeks into summer (I count the heatwave as the start) and we're already seeing our dress predictions for summer 2022 coming true. It's our responsibility to bring you the most up-to-date predictions for the new season's dress trend, and honestly, we got it really right. With plenty of sunshine to come there's still time to update your wardrobe with this seasons trending dress styles.
If you know us well, you'll know just how much we love a dress. And really, why wouldn't we? They always seem to swoop in to save us when we need them most—when we have nothing else to wear, when we need to look put-together in an instant, when we suddenly can't fit into our favourite jeans or when it's just too darn hot to wear anything else. Whether you're a dress person or not, it's likely you have at least a couple of hero styles you turn to for weddings or work events.
When spring/summer 2022 hit the runways back in September, we couldn't wait to share the hottest new styles. With a special place in our hearts for dresses, we knew that this year had plenty of new offerings that we'd desperately want to try. After a good few seasons of repeating dress trends—puff sleeves, smock dresses and wrap dresses, to name a few—summer 2022 is all about new shapes. And finally, it's time to show them off.
Hemlines have hiked up this year. Naked dresses aren't just for red carpets anymore. The coolest designers are doing very clever and covetable things with draping. There's also some evolution of the classics: The knitted dress is getting a slimmer-fit and ribbed (it has to be ribbed) upgrade; the mini, which has been gaining traction for a couple of seasons, is well and truly here to stay. And brides-to-be are in luck: Pretty white dresses are back on the agenda in a big way.
We could go on about the reasons we're loving the new major and micro dress trends for days, but for the purposes of keeping things top-line, we've picked the five we think are the most trending styles. Keep scrolling to find out more, and shop the trends now.
1. The New Naked
Naked dresses are no longer simply a penchant of the Kardashian clan. This year we've seen a new naked, mostly thanks to rising star and LVMH prize winner Nensi Dojaka and her strappy designs. Instead of see-through sparkles, we're talking sheer materials, cut-outs galore and barely there straps. This trend isn't for everyone, but go for it if you dare.
SHOP THE TREND
If you're bold enough for this trend, why not go further with a pop of colour.
Ease into this trend with a classic black piece.
This can go from day to night with the change of shoes.
Classic in the front, style in the back.
For poolside or pool party.
2. Ribbed Knits
A knit dress is a perennial wardrobe item that evolves with each coming year. The classics will always work, but this year, knit dresses are looking ribbed, slim-fit and midaxi length. Completely the opposite of the naked trend, this trend is sexy in a more covert way.
SHOP THE TREND
Style for summer with beaded jewellery and sandals, for cooler days add knee high boots.
Now this looks really expensive.
This classic piece can be worn year after year.
With a nod to the 90's this knit has halter straps and a short sleeve layer over the top.
The bold green hue is everywhere this summer.
3. Fresh Minis
"The Great Shrinkage" is real. After all, fashion is still reacting to last two years love affair sweats. So it's unsurprising that when it comes to the hottest dresses right now, the general word is to be brave. If you're not in an ankle-skimming knit dress, you should probably be wearing a mini. Chrissy Ford knows the drill.
SHOP THE TREND
The littlest of little black dresses.
Aperol orange has taken over this season.
This trend is just as relevant for day as night.
The back is just as good as the front.
Sky-high hems never looked so good.
4. Gather Round
Draping and gathered fabric were huge trends on the S/S 22 runways, and it's definitely trickled down to fashion followers everywhere. Given that it's a look that can be adapted for colder months, we plan to re-style this when autumn arrives. Look to Loewe, Proenza Schouler, Rick Owens and Jacquemus for inspiration.
SHOP THE TREND
The draping makes this easily to elevate for day or evening.
COS knows how to design a brilliant dress.
Summer is all about comfort, and a floaty bold coloured dress is just what we need.
With trainers or sandals, this is the perfect throw-on-and-go dress.
The draped bustline is definitely on trend, and the removable straps make this a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
5. Pure White
If you've been off the radar this year here's the general gist - fancy white dresses should be on your radar. If you missed our S/S22 trend roundup then you might not have guessed how big this trend would be. But don't fret - we've found plenty of options to buy now and style for the rest of summer. Look out for special detailing like unique fabrics, ruffles and gathering to add extra interest.
SHOP THE TREND
Flowing sleeves and skirt make this an easy option for sunny days.
Elegant yet relaxed is the ultimate combination for a great summer dress.
Aje is much-loved by fashion editors everywhere and we can definitely see why.
In the absence of colour, focus on intricate design details like this embroidery.
Take on two trends with this white mini dress.
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