It’s never too early to start thinking about summer! What dress trends will you make look cutest as the sun comes out and you change out your boots for sandals? And when is it the right time to break out those summer frocks?
Hot Trends for 2022
This summer, it’s all about being carefree, as much as possible! The looks that you’ll be seeing on your favorite fashionistas (including the one in the mirror) are going to be light-hearted and oh-so-fun. We’re already seeing throwbacks to the Y2K-era, like neons and low-flung waists, crop tops, and chunky sneakers!
In dresses, Cottagecore is still hot. Imagine yourself in a field of summer wildflowers, reading a book… in your imagination, what dress are you wearing? Look for softer fabrics and colors, flowing dresses, and linen dresses with puffed sleeves.
One of our favorite trends this year is the maxi dress. They’re both comfortable and flattering, and can be styled with nearly footwear: any sandals will look great– reach for a pair inspired by Ancient Greece if you’re in the mood!–but a maxi also works with espadrilles, ballet slippers, or canvas sneakers.They even look great with platforms or heels.
The Dresses to Flatter Your Figure
Form-fitting or flowy? Or structured in just the right spots? And what about hemlines?
If you have a taller frame, consider retro-inspired dresses that emphasize your legs, with a hemline that falls above the knee. If you’re on the shorter side, take that hemline even a bit higher, to mid-thigh.
If you have a hourglass figure, look for clingy sheaths with a well-defined waist, or achieve that same look by cinching a belt over your dress. Adjustable necklines and shoulder cut-outs are a good option. Ruched dresses are also making a comeback and give the right vibe for 2022, with the technique being used in unexpected and flattering ways.
If you are athletic or slim, frilly tiers look sexy, as do ruffles in your bust area. An A-line dress will draw eyes to your waist, emphasizing your figure. Maybe even explore a drop-waist, Jazz Era inspired dress with a waistline that falls at your upper hip, falling straight over your form. And don’t forget a shirtdress that you can cinch with a belt, showing off your legs.
Full-figured beauties, have fun with romantic features like puff sleeves, flowy lines, a floral print, or a flattering neckline that drops off one or both shoulders. A high-waisted print dress is lovely, perfect for an antiquing adventure. Look for a silhouette that suits your figure and highlights those curves!
Is your figure pear-shaped? Follow your A-line with fit and flare dresses, or if you’re in the mood for something lovely and easy-breezy, look for loose and flowy dress with a clavicle-baring neckline that draw attention upward. Asymmetrical styles can also look fantastic.
When Should You Start Wearing Summer Dresses
Of course, this will vary from Miami to Minneapolis! But generally speaking, you can start wearing your summer dresses in the spring… many of these styles can look lovely with a sweater or blazer too.
At the Beach
Some of our 2022 favorites are the wrap dress, either solid color or print, which can be worn as a cover-up or on its own as an outfit. Same with a shirtdress or button dress. And don’t be afraid to show a little skin, with an off-the-shoulder maxi dress. See you at the lake!
