The Ultimate 2022 Capsule Wardrobe in 9 Simple Buys
If you're a loyal Who What Wear reader, as I suspect you might be, you'll have already devoured our summer 2022 trend report, outlining every notable look, garment, and accessory we saw during September's fashion-month showcase. If this, however, is not the case, I suggest you take a look at it and meet me back here once you're up to speed.
Okay, now that you know precisely what the new collections look like, let's talk about how to channel them in real life. We know the runways present an exaggerated interpretation of the trends. Still, I'm always interested in seeing how I can realistically add them to my wardrobe and work them into my daily outfits—this is where my 2022 capsule wardrobe comes in.
Neutral tones are a fashion headliner this year.
Below, I've taken the key looks from the summer 2022 shows and have pinpointed the nine pieces you need to stay on top of the trends for the season ahead. No, you read that right—you only need nine pieces to complete 2022's covetable aesthetic. These items are guaranteed to be huge for the foreseeable future, and if you ask me, it's never too soon to start test-driving what's next in fashion.
So keep scrolling to discover what you need in your 2022 capsule wardrobe and to shop my favorite finds for each category.
1. OVERSIZE BLAZER
It's hard to call blazers a trend, as they're one of the most classic pieces you can own, but the oversize silhouettes seen at Stella McCartney and Jil Sander are absolutely worthy of that accolade.
2. MAXI SKIRT
It's been a long time since maxi skirts were so prevalent on the runway, but they just kept cropping up. Everyone from Chloé to Givenchy showcased them in their collections. There was, however, one commonality: They were all sleek and streamlined.
3. PLATFORM SHOES
Platforms are a trend that has been bubbling under the surface for a few seasons now, but make no mistake—they are very much back this year. Nodaleto has a new slingback silhouette I just know is going to fly, but you can also get your stacked fill on the high street should your budget not stretch that far.
4. WHITE DRESS
Flocks of white dresses cascaded down the runways throughout the course of fashion month. Although they always make a comeback for summer, 2022's iterations are distinguishable by their cutouts, ruffles, and fancy fabrications like tulle and sequins.
5. BRA TOP
One of the more controversial trends from the spring/summer 2022 runways, bra tops were everywhere you turned. Worn boldly on their own or layered under shirting and jackets, how you style yours is entirely up to you.
6. SOMETHING FEATHERED
Feathers are synonyms with party season, but this year they're sticking around for spring. Pastel shades decorated the collections of so many designers—Gucci, Valentino, and Giambattista Valli to name a mere few. My favorite way to channel the trend is with a cardigan trimmed with the fluffy stuff. Though, Karen Millen's trousers are tempting too.
7. PREPPY KNITWEAR
I've never been the sporty type, but I'm thinking of joining this fashion league. Cricket and varsity were the dominant knits on the spring/summer 2022 runways and will help you perfect the preppy vibe that overarches the season with ease.
8. LOGO BAG
Designers have been delicate with their branding on bags for a while now, but not for 2022. No, this is the year where in-your-face branding will make a comeback, and you'll want absolutely everyone to know where your bag is from. Gucci and Loewe have already mastered the look (as did Tory Burch on the runway), but I'm also enjoying the high street's take.
9. TROUSER SET
If you lived in your knitted set in 2021, rest assured this is a safe space, and you have nothing to feel ashamed of. Still, times are changing, and I'm going to do my best to wean myself off loungewear. Instead, I'll be investing in a sleek trouser co-ord for a simple but elegant outfit solution.
This post was originally published on Who What Wear UK. Next, Emily Ratajkowski Wore the Perfect '90s Trend If You're Not About That Miniskirt Life
Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.
Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.
Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.
-
I'm 28, and My Mom Is 68—We Both Adore This $16 Elevated Wardrobe Basic From Amazon
You'll see why.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
I Just Went to NYC—This Was My 3-Day Capsule Travel Wardrobe
Versatile staples ahead.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
9 Staples I Wear at Least Once a Week All Year Long
From August to December.
By Eliza Huber
-
Nordstrom Fall Capsule: We Styled 20 Perfect Items Into Endless Outfit Combos
Wardrobe staples.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
We're Fashion Editors—the 9 Best Items From The Row That Are Truly Worth the Investment
They'll never date.
By Emily Dawes
-
18 Dresses, Denim, and Swimwear Picks for a Summer Wardrobe Refresh
Sponsor Content Created With PAIGE
By Raina Mendonça
-
I Swear This Flawless Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe Fits in My Carry-On
Not just neutrals.
By Natalie Cantell
-
31 Finds From Abercrombie That Give "I Shop at The Row" Energy
When did the brand get so chic?
By Nikki Chwatt