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While we’ve been lying on our couches, embracing that pandemic-induced 24/7 sweatpants life, the fashion world is taking an optimistic approach for the future. Lifting us out of our comfy rut, this year’s wardrobe refresh is a blend of nostalgic looks and elevated basics.
To help bring life back in your closet, style expert Mana Mansour shared her top fashion trends for 2022, from chic loungewear to wide-leg jeans. So even if your runway continues to be the hallway between your home office and kitchen, you'll still look fabulous and ready to rule the day.
Wide leg jeans
The next big non-skinny jeans trend is here. If you haven't already, say hello to the wide-leg jean! These are full-length jeans with a trouser-like wide leg and a high rise.
We know that wide jeans can be intimidating if you’re not used to wearing them, which is why the high rise is so key here. If you’re on the shorter side, choose a pair with a lower, more flattering rise. A way to know where it’s best for it to sit is no higher than the smallest part of your waist, which is usually at or just above the belly button.
It’s also important to find the right cut of wide-leg jeans for your body type. The silhouette and shape of your jeans can really make or break the look you’re going for. If you’re petite, you don’t want them to drag you down and if you’re tall and/or curvy, you don’t want them to make you look bigger or wider than you are. If you’re short, opt for a pair that is more narrow in the leg, so same width top to bottom. If you’re curvy, opt for one with a slight flare at the bottom hem and with lots of stretch.
Just as important as the cut is the hem! Don’t rock a pair of wide-leg jeans that are too short for your inseam. This style of denim must graze the floor to achieve the right look. So, pre-plan if you’ll be wearing these with flats or heels, then purchase accordingly.
And if you’re wondering what to wear with wide-leg jeans, we’ve got you covered on that too! More form-fitting tops look best with wide-leg jeans, as do more cropped styles. If you’re choosing to wear a loose-fitting top, it must be tucked in, otherwise, your waist is lost and it can look sloppy over the wide leg.
SHOP: Ribcage Straight Ankle Women's Jeans; $118 at Levi's | Gia High Rise Wide Leg Jean; $89.99 at EverNew | ELOQUII Elements Women's Plus Size Wide Leg Jean; $35 at Walmart
Summer dresses in the winter
We dare to ask the question: why should our favourite summer pieces be relegated to storage without being given a proper chance to contribute to our winter wardrobe? If you’re looking to winterize your summer pieces to make them go twice as far, pick the more simple items, not the ones with a lot of ruffles, cutouts, and patterns.
If your dress hits above knee-length, layering can help transition it to winter. Adding a pair of jeans or slim trousers underneath, or pairing it with a form-fitting turtleneck can add warmth and overall dimension to an outfit.
If you’re doing a blazer or a jacket, find one that is longer than the dress to create a more seamless look. Other ways to update this summery vibe is to add a belt to manipulate the hem of the dress, make it into a skirt, and pair it with a chunky knit top or go for a more edgy look by wearing military books (plus you’re ready to walk in the ice or snow!)
SHOP: ICONE Draped slip dress; $69 at Simons | Satin Slip-On Shift Dress; $24.99 at Reitmans | Blue slip dress, $39.99 Winners
Chic loungewear
If we learned anything from spending almost two years stuck inside, it's that you don't have to sacrifice comfort for style. But if you're having loungewear fatigue, as in you don't want to look at another pair of sweatpants or pyjama set again, we've got the solution! Ditch that pair of PJs that have seen better days and invest in solid pieces that add a pop of colour to your casual fits that make you look and feel good.
Rather than sweatpants or stretchy pants, opt for soft denim with an elastic waistband and tie waist that can be adjusted. Swap out your yoga leggings for stirrup leggings and pair them with a cute loafer.
Another great way to add some style to your loungewear is to go for a belted and tailored or faux fur jacket instead of a bulky puffer. And rather than going for a matching lounge set head to toe, go for a boiler suit! You can easily layer this comfy yet edgy piece, stuff it in boots, or belt it if you want it to look more polished.
SHOP: Green belted puffer jacket, $481 at Nordstrom | Stretch waistband jeans, $59.99 at Winners | Stirrup leggings, $29.99, H&M | Cord Zip Front Jumpsuit; $495 at Ted Baker
