Scroll to see more images
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.
It’s mid-July, which means you’ve probably just reached the peak of your sunny summer glow. The sun sets after 9 p.m., the weather gets warmer (too hot) and you wonder how to continue your summer romance in the fall. The season is passing fast but summer is not over yet, which means you still have time to try out the hottest summer fashion trends of 2022.
This season’s trends will inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and stand out. So while you’re debating between wearing a shade that’s brighter than the sun or adding a body chain to your look (my vote is to do both), it’s important to remember that the best accessory for your outfit is a ” I’m hot and I know it”.
But you don’t have to take my word for it. I spoke with model Chanel Iman about her summer fashion tips for looking and feeling your best. Since Chanel Iman has walked countless fashion shows and worn every trend before it hits the stores, I completely trust her commentary on this summer’s trends.
Iman says, “If I’ve learned anything in my fashion career, it’s to be bold and confident when showing off your style – and most importantly to be yourself. This summer, bold patterns are on the rise!”
Just because you’re buying bold pieces doesn’t mean they have to break the bank. Retailers like Marshalls, TJ Maxx and Asos often have a version of each trend for a better version of the price.
According to Iman, Marshalls have “a wide variety of styles with fun and funky patterns perfect for summer – like this one. blouse for only $12! I love pairing bold patterns with simple opposites like these denim shorts make the blouse the key element of my look.
The good news is that all summer fashion trends can easily be played up with bright accessories or tone them down by pairing them with basics like jeans or a classic blazer. Keep scrolling to choose the trend you want to dive into before summer is gone.
Projector.
Right now the name of the fashion game is “shinier the better” and hot pink is about as shiny as it gets. The hue first gained popularity when Valentino made it the one and only runway color last season and nearly every celebrity has worn it since! Just when it seemed like pink couldn’t get any hotter, Barbiecore, the nostalgic bimbo fashionista look, resurfaced. Coincidentally (or not so much), photos of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling dressed in pink on the set of the upcoming Barbie movie were released at the same time. I predict the bright colors will last until fall, but summer is definitely the best time to wear them.
If wearing an all-hot pink outfit is intimidating, follow model Chanel Iman’s advice and incorporate neon lights into your accessories. “As my style is more colorful and casual, taking a simple dress and making it pop with accessories is always my favorite way to elevate my summer looks,” Iman says.
Courtesy of Shinestar.
O-Ring High Neck Bodycon Dress
This hot pink dress with cutout details is the perfect way to make an impact on a summer dinner date or a night out on the town. Also, if you want to tone it down, you can always wear a neutral colored blazer over it.
Projector.
Dressing for the summer heat often means ditching layers and outfit pieces that add detail in order to stay cool, which is why I love the knitwear trend so much. Mesh adds texture and dimension to any look and can be worn for any occasion. For example, a slip-less mesh dress is perfect for covering up a bathing suit, or a mesh tank top can be paired with layered jewelry and baggy jeans for an effortlessly cool daytime look. My favorite iteration of the trend is crisp white mesh dresses (like the one pictured above). Pair the dress with a contrasting bag and bright shoes to complete the look.
Courtesy of Mango.
Openwork cotton dress
This cutout dress from Mango comes with a slip underneath and hits just above the knee. The mesh overlay is meant to be a little oversized, so don’t be afraid to size up.
Projector.
Only using a woven bag for days by the ocean? Beach please. The beach bag has been reduced and is ready to be transported from the city to the countryside, to the swimming pool and vice versa. Designers like Loewe, Balenciaga and Prada created durable versions of woven basket bags meant to be worn as handbags. The material and shape are obviously perfect for the summer and are a great way to bring the coastal granny vibe to your everyday life. Whether you choose a colorful iteration or stick to classic neutrals,
Courtesy of DeMellier.
Santorini Mini Tote
If you’re torn between neutrals and color, this DeMellier woven mini tote will give you the best of both worlds. It’s small enough to be carried as a handbag but will still fit over your shoulder.
Projector.
Attending a formal wedding? Feathers would be perfect for that. Maybe you have planned a big birthday party? A feather mini dress is a must. Or if you just like to dress up for your daily coffee, then you’re probably already wearing sleeves with feather trim to impress the barista. Feathers are without a doubt the most fun fashion trend to adopt this summer.
Courtesy of ASOS Design.
Beaded mini dress with feather cuff
ASOS has the best selection of sparkly feather occasion dresses and I’m absolutely obsessed with this orange one (and just bought it). The feather sleeves are oversized in the best way and you won’t be able to move your arm without getting 100 compliments.
Projector.
Whether you’ve been in a relationship for years or have time to swipe left or right, a strappy dress is the ultimate date night look and model Chanel Iman agrees. “I like to be comfortable and dresses do the trick. For a date, I’ll go for a summer wardrobe staple: a little black dress,” says Iman.
Briefs work great as LBDs or they can be played up with bright colors or patterns. Not only is a slip dress sexy, but it is also very versatile. You can wear them alone, over a t-shirt or with a blazer or cardigan depending on your evening itinerary.
Courtesy of Free People.
Sunfade slip dress
This floral slip dress is very seductive with its lace hem. Pair it with kitten heels and a sparkly shoulder bag and everyone will fall for you.
Projector.
Calling all fashion maximalists! A body chain will take your look and accessories to the next level. Body chains look great with a bikini, crop top or layered over baggy jeans in the summer. If you need more inspiration, Hailey Bieber’s entire Instagram page is basically a body chain fan account. While I want the trend to stay year-round, it’s hard to layer a body chain over a chunky wool sweater (although I dare you to try it). This is definitely a trend to try before fall.
Courtesy of 8 more reasons.
Cuban belly chain
This body chain is simple and will subtly add shine and draw attention to your waistline.
