Bronwyn’s Take on Spring 2022 Trends

May 15

By Brownyn Jensen

As we (finally) emerge from dark pandemic days stuck inside our homes, it has been interesting to see how current trends in fashion reflect the current state of society. As people yearn for excitement and connection again, choices in fashion and self-expression have begun to reflect this permeating appetite for life. As was the case in the 1920s following World War I, people today are emerging out of the darkness into this century’s “roaring 2020s” –brighter and bolder than ever before. Drawing from more recent decades, however, the 90s-to-now feeling of these current trends evokes a sharp nostalgia, striking a particular chord with generations born around the turn of the century.

Here are some of the trends I’ve begun to notice for this spring season and 2022 overall:

Crochet/knit

This widespread trend had a huge emergence within the Tik Tok community over the past two years, bringing back a resurgence of DIY culture in its wake. I am personally a huge fan of this trend, and DIY clothing trends generally, because of their sustainability and the creativity involved. An avid knitter myself, I love the authenticity that shines through any homemade piece. Not only that, but I think that this trend evokes a certain homemade nostalgic feeling that has resonated deeply with younger generations hoping to break free from the firm grip that fast fashion has on the industry. With that, when partaking in this trend, I urge you to try and wear authentically homemade or sustainably produced pieces – store-bought crochet just doesn’t sit right with me! Get creative and make something with your hands! (See Charlotte’s article for more on crocheting)

“Ugly” shoes

From Uggs to Birkenstocks to “dad shoes”, the resurgence of “ugly” shoes has begun, and they are here to stay. Although these three examples may be the most common and versatile (each one serves its own purpose while simultaneously they are all multi-purposeful and able to be styled in very different ways [fx I love the look of Uggs at the beach]), the “ugly” shoe category spans wide. I like this trend a lot because it encourages people to repurpose old pieces and turn them into new staples. It doesn't require us to go out and purchase a brand new pair of $500 Ganni chunky boots (despite how much I love those too), all it takes is some digging in the back of your (or your dad’s) closet. If you see me around campus these days, chances are I’m wearing my New Balance 990v5’s.

Note: High end brands like Balenciaga have been hopping on this footwear trend as well, experimenting with form and challenging conventionality.

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Headwear

Balaclava, scarves, clips, headphones, lots of accessorizing of the head. This trend was huge on the streets during New York Fashion Week this year. We are seeing lots of creativity in the expression of the head and hair, tapping into an underutilized medium of wear. It’s very inherently bold and not very subtle, as the head is often the first thing you see. It’s also very reflective of the overarching theme of this year - statement pieces, no holding back.

Bright colors

As we approach warmer months, this season’s color palettes are going to be a lot more vibrant than in previous years. Think fewer pastels and muted tones, more deeply saturated hues, as well as lots of high contrast. Bold and purposeful use of color makes this trend very active rather than passive. Color is intentional and used sparingly but sensibly. We’re seeing especially bright saturated hues of green, orange, blue, and pink – not quite neon but definitely dancing the line, a fun alternative to the classic spring pastels in line again with the appetite for excitement that is transcending this moment in society.

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Layering

Intense layering, especially with sweaters and light jackets. We’re seeing people tying pieces around the body, sometimes with little functional purpose, creating many lines converging, adding texture and fluidity. This trend was particularly visible this winter, with lots of scarves and lighter layering creating depth and dimension, but has transcended into spring as we see a resurgence of big jackets, cardigans, and cross-body bags that section up a look.

Glitter (obviously)

You don’t have to be an expert to notice the explosion of all things glitz and glam this year. Perhaps similarly to the over-the-top, ornateness of the 1920s, it seems that we are arriving into this century’s “roaring 20s” with a thirst for attention and fun as well. Not only have the runways been dripping with sparkle this season, but we are seeing glitter emerge in subtle, everyday moments as well. Keep an eye out for sparkly fringe (like this dress worn by Norwegian influencer, Nnenna Echam), sequins, glittery nails, and bedazzlement this upcoming season.

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Cowboy boots/boots generally

One of my favorites, there has been a sudden, unexpected infiltration of cowboy boots within the fashion world. Taller boots generally have made a massive return into the fashion world since last fall, often being paired with dresses and skirts for a fun, powerful look. However, it wasn’t until recently that the cowboy boot in particular has begun to make waves, peeking out from under wide-leg pants, or standing alone as somewhat of a statement piece. Check out this wonderful pair from Ganni’s Fall 2022 collection.