The Ultimate 2022 Capsule Wardrobe, In 9 Simple Buys

April 08, 2022 at 08:00AM

Try as we may, right now, all we can seem to think about is 2022 and the new trends that come with it. If you’re a loyal Who What Wear reader, as I suspect you might be, you’ll have already devoured our spring/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.

Below, I’ve taken the key looks from the spring/summer 2022 shows and have pinpointed the nine pieces you need to stay on top of the trends for the coming season. No, you read that right—you only need nine pieces to complete 2022’s covetable aesthetic. These items are guaranteed to be huge over the next 12 months, 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 favourite finds for each category. 

It’s hard to call blazers a trend, as they’re one of the most classic pieces you can own, but the oversized silhouettes seen at Stella McCartney and Jil Sander are absolutely worthy of that accolade. 

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 streamline. 

Platforms are a trend which has been bubbling under the surface for a few seasons now, but make no mistake, they are very much back for 2022. 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. 

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 cut-outs, ruffles, and fancy fabrications like tulle and sequins. 

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. 

Feathers are synonyms with party season but this year they’re sticking around for spring, too. Pastel shades decorated the collections of so many designers—we’re talking Gucci, Valentino, and Giambattista Valli to name a mere few. My favourite way to channel the trend is with a cardigan trimmed with the fluffy stuff, though Karen Millen’s trousers are tempting, too. 

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 nail the preppy vibe that overarches the season with ease. 

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 nailed the look (as did Tory Burch on the runway), but I’m also enjoying the high-street’s take.

If you lived in your knitted co-ord 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. 

Next Up, Spring/Summer 2022 Trends: The Only 17 Looks You Need to Know About

Author Maxine Eggenberger | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC