5 Really Great Ideas for Looking Chic in 2022

The trend cycle used to last six months to a year, but now, looks go in and out of style within weeks—social media has truly changed the game. While the temptation to buy into each passing trend is very real, we suggest putting your hard-earned money toward timeless basics and styling them out with a selection of on-trend pieces and accessories. These subtle details and "micro-trends" can breathe new life into your wardrobe for a fraction of the price. 

For example, picking up a chocolate-brown slip skirt or a sweater-vest for the winter will add a trendy element to your existing outfits into 2022. We're also loving the fun checkerboard print and implementing it into our wardrobe in every way possible. In addition to '70s-inspired browns and layered sweaters, read up on the easy, chic ways to style an outfit in the new year below. You won't regret it.

Chocolate Brown

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(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

Seventies-inspired brown has been on our list as one of the top fall trends, and if Instagram is any indication, our prediction was accurate. Adding a touch of chocolate brown to your outfit—whether in the form of a slip skirt, jacket, or top—will make your ensemble feel infinitely more fashion-forward. 

All Check Everything

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(Image credit: @minamigessel)

Check print has exploded among the fashion set in the last few months, and we think this look will stick around well into 2022. Add a touch of this kitschy print to your outfits for a chic yet punchy look. If you're not ready to go full-on checkered pants, test the waters with a turtleneck, a scarf, or slip-on Vans sneakers. 

Sweaters and Button-Downs

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(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

Every fashion influencer under the sun has sported some version of the sweater-and-button-down look this fall, and we expect this trend to continue into 2022. While sweater-vests are certainly making a comeback, you can even layer an old V-neck sweater or baggy cardigan over your go-to white button-down for a slightly toned-down take on the look. Add an edge to the preppy ensemble with knee-high black boots and an oversize blazer.

Shackets

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(Image credit: @nycbambi)

The "shacket" has been deemed the outerwear trend of fall 2021, and we expect this practical piece to continue trending into the new year. Invest in a palatable neutral or check print, and layer it over every outfit for a chic touch. 

Rectangular Sunglasses 

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(Image credit: @claire_most)

Of course, accessories always take an outfit to the next level. On-trend pieces like square-frame sunglasses, shoulder bags, and chunky chain necklaces can make an otherwise simple outfit feel brand-new. Invest in these essentials now, and your outfits will feel elevated and stylish for the foreseeable future. 

This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Up Next: Black Knee-High Boots Are My Holy Grail—Here Are 8 New Ways I'm Wearing Them

Freelance Contributor

Kelsey Clark is a freelance writer and content strategist based in Detroit. She got her start in editorial in New York City as MyDomaine's lifestyle editor and has since gone full-time freelance. She now contributes to Who What Wear, THE/THIRTY, Domino, Glamour, The Zoe Report, Apartment Therapy, and more, in addition to working with brands such as Bloomscape and EyeSwoon on content strategy and copywriting. She's written about fashion, interior design, health and wellness, pop culture, food, travel, politics, and professional development, but she'd consider the first three verticals her main "beats." She's also incredibly passionate about mental health awareness and hopes to help eradicate the social stigma through storytelling and education. When she's not writing, you can find her scouring thrift stores for Levi's 501s, picking up a new vintage piece for her apartment, or exploring new restaurants and bars across Detroit.