10 of the Hottest Trends Back & Styled for 2022

Celebrating a decade of style.

You loved ‘em 10 years ago (maybe?). But how do you wear them now? Style is always evolving, and luckily our fashion-obsessed style experts (aka your styling besties) are always on top of the latest trends. To mark our 10th birthday celebrations, our stylists share tips on how to wear (and totally love again) 10 trends from the past decade!

1. Peplum: for the perfect hourglass waist.

The peplum trend exploded in 2012, and is slowly making a comeback in 2022.  It’s flattering because it creates a feminine silhouette that accentuates the natural waistline. How to style peplum: Pair a peplum blouse with a fitted pencil skirt and add block heels for a chic, modern, and professional look. For a more casual look pair it with some flared jeans.

2. Bold prints: tone it down with new neutrals.

The rise of digital prints made large florals and geometric patterns in hyper-bright colors the trend of 2012. In 2022, we are seeing bold prints that use both bright and neutral colors together. How to style bold prints: Look for modern floral prints instead of bright on bright (a red floral over a base color like neon green). Opt for muted tones like ivory or blush to complement the bright print.

3. Crop tops: cleaner, more feminine, a must for 2022.

Crop tops = all the rage in 2012. Back, and better, in 2022 with a modernized fit, patterns, and colors. The silhouette is still casual, but more straight-cut than the loose muscle tank style. Plus, bustier and corset-style cropped tops are trending for dressy fashion, like date night outfits. How to style crop tops: pair crop tops with high-waisted bottoms for a modern and lightweight look to keep you on-trend and cool all summer.

4. Pastels: going tonal.

Pastels in 2012, were color-blocked with other pastels or bold colors. Now, you can modernize the look by pairing pastels more subtly. How to style pastels: Try an oversized pastel jacket with medium-to-light-wash denim shorts or jeans and a white tank or tee underneath.

5. Leather look: moto jackets still on top.

The leather look – real and faux –  has been styled for years to give outfits a bit of super-chic edge. It just refuses to be out. How to style leather: While pants go in and out, the moto jacket is one of the best-loved and versatile pieces in fashion, every closet needs one, or a few!

6. Dresses: one-and-done favorites.

The 2012 sheath dress? No, this year it’s all about a breezy, lightweight maxi or midi dresses. Smocked dresses have become a 2022 closet staple for any occasion. That simple. So comfy. So cool. How to style a maxi dress: take your look up a notch by mixing a maxi dress with fashionable sneakers and a fun crossbody bag for a fashion-forward look, a well-loved cropped denim jacket is great for casual days. Go dressier with a heel, statement jewelry and a bold lip.

7. Mesh: textures elevate any style.

In 2012, it was dark and structured mesh, today it’s light and lacy bringing a whole new flair of femininity to your look. How to style mesh: pair a lace-trimmed cami with a sheer kimono. Wear a lacy-edged bralette with structured pieces such as a blazer.

8. Embroidery: it’s all in the details.

2012 focused on embroidered dress wear, and 2022 has given us fun embroidered casual wear! How to style embroidery: add a hint of this trend with an embroidered blouse and jeans. Or, opt for an edgy, embroidery-detailed jacket over shorts or a neutral maxi dress.

9. Cutouts: give a glimpse of skin

In earlier years, cold shoulder cut-outs made a statement. Now, back, neckline, and waist cutouts are making an exciting appearance! How to style cutouts: try an edgier look by adding a slight neck cut-out top with jeans and booties or even a twist-back top paired with a stylish bralette and a skirt. Try a dress with strategically-placed waist cutouts to give the illusion of an hourglass silhouette.

10. Orange you glad you read to the end?

Back in 2012, the orange tone was a dark, poppy color. Today, it’s a fresh, fruity, orange vibe, and you need this!
How to style bold orange: go bold with orange shorts (or cropped and kick-flare pants for extra style points). Pair with a bold pink top, or tonal orange tank. Or, try a bold orange high-neck blouse, softened with well-loved denim shorts or wide-leg jeans. Finally, don’t forget accessories, pick a pop of orange to revitalize a neutral look.

Got a style question or want to share some bday love? Our team would love to hear from you! Send it to our team at: [email protected].

Also, share a bit of birthday love by showing us your favorite Wantable look, using #wantableturns10 and tag us @wantable.