The 6 fresh style trends that stood out at Fashion Week Spring 2022

It feels like fashion week is back this season in a substantive way. 

Many designers still opted for lookbooks and digital events instead of in-person presentations, and some guest lists remained tight for social distancing, plus there were vaccine requirements in some cities. 

But for the first time since the Fall 2020 season, there were crowds at the shows, celebrity appearances, dinners and after parties. And a number of IRL spectacles on both sides of the Atlantic: the Thom Browne show in New York featured living statues and models in horse heads on antique, high-wheel bicycles, while in Paris, the Balenciaga show served a red-carpet-as-runway moment, plus a mini Balenciaga-themed episode of The Simpsons (which reportedly received a standing ovation). 

There was a sense of confidence and optimism apparent in the clothing, too. Designers seem to be betting that we'll be getting dressed up again soon for both work and play. Nevermind sweats and athleisure, it'll (hopefully) be all about sequins, pantsuits and making a bonafide fashion statement next year.

Here are six womenswear trends to put on your radar for spring 2022.

XL blazers

Pantsuits continue to be popular this season, especially styled with a bra or bandeau top (or nothing at all!) in place of a button-up blouse or turtleneck. And it looks like we'll be seeing oversized, tailored blazers with wide, padded shoulders and extra-long sleeves come spring, worn as dresses, jackets and topping colour-coordinated suits. 

You can go for a timeless black version, for a look that's more Saint Laurent, or opt for something a little lighter and with more volume, as seen at Jil Sander.

Wide-leg jeans

Relaxed-fit, wide-leg jeans made an appearance in many designer collections for spring. There were distressed and ripped pairs at Balenciaga, patchwork styles at Coach 1941 and Dsquared2, and low-rise cuts at MSGM and Missoni.  

What to wear with your roomy denim? Pretty much anything. They were paired with colourful tulle tops at Molly Goddard, a matching denim jacket at Rejina Pyo and sheer blouses at Valentino. 

Creative cut-outs 

Form-fitting dresses and tops continued to trend at fashion week. But if textured, multicoloured dresses were a must-have for fall, spring is all about fine knits and jerseys in lighter colours and show-what-you've-got cut-outs. 

These fitted tops and dresses can be worn solo if you're feeling bold or as a base layer under your favourite jackets and sheer toppers for spring. 

Fringed hems

Perfect for hitting the dance floor or making a grand entrance, flirty dresses with fringed hems will be high on wish lists for spring 2022. 

Spotted at shows like Alaïa, Marni, Chloé and Burberry, it's in some ways the lively trend needed after 18 months of nap dresses — these are clothes that shine in movement, not repose. 

Shades of yellow

From lemon to goldenrod to marigold, cheerful shades of yellow grabbed attention at Jason Wu, Proenza Schouler, Hermès and more. The yellow maxi dress, in particular, was popular with designers. But there were also sunny-hued suits at Max Mara and Jil Sander, and a breezy top and pant set at Emilio Pucci.  

Sequined dresses

If you've already been layering sequined garments by day, you'll be happy to know that the sequined dress is trending for spring 2022 in classic silver but also other iridescent hues. 

Glam but also sleek, the dresses and gowns shown at Erdem, Michael Kors, Valentino and more are perfect for making a flashy statement wherever you might be headed — no jewelry or heels required.  

Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.