Scroll to see more images
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an associated commission.
It’s mid-July, which means you’ve probably just hit the peak of your summer glow. The sun is setting after 9 p.m., the weather is getting hotter (so hot) and you’re wondering how to carry your summer romance into fall. The season is flying by, but summer isn’t over yet, which means you still have time to try the hottest summer fashion trends of 2022.
This season’s trends will encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and make a statement. So while you’re debating between wearing a shade brighter than the sun or adding a body chain to your look (my vote is to do both), it’s important to remember that the best accessory for Your outfit is an “I’m hot and I know it” attitude.
But you don’t have to take my word for it. I spoke to supermodel Chanel Iman about her summer fashion tips for feeling and looking your best. Since Chanel Iman has walked in countless fashion shows and worn every trend before they hit the stores, I fully trust her input on this summer’s trends.
Iman says: “If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my fashion career, it’s to be bold and confident in your style – and most of all, to be yourself. This summer, bold designs are a hit!”
Just because you’re buying bold pieces doesn’t mean they have to break the bank. Retailers like Marshalls, TJ Maxx and Asos often have a version of every trend for a better price.
According to Iman, Marshalls has “a wide variety of styles with fun, beautiful, summer-perfect designs – like this blouse for just $12! I love combining bold patterns with simple contrasts like these jean shorts to make the blouse the attractive element of my look.”
The good news is that all the main summer fashion trends can easily be played with bright accessories or toned by combining them with basic elements such as jeans or a classic sports jacket. Keep scrolling to choose which trend you want to dive into before summer leaves.
I light up.
Right now, the name of the fashion game is “the brighter the better,” and hot pink is as bright as it gets. The shade first rose in popularity when Valentino made it the one and only color on its runway last season, and almost every celebrity has worn it since! Just when it seemed like pink couldn’t get any hotter, Barbiecore, the nostalgic bimbo fashionista look, resurfaced. Coincidentally (or not so much), photos of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling decked out in pink on the set of the upcoming Barbie movie were released at the same time. I predict bright colors will last through fall, but summer is definitely the best time to wear them.
If wearing an all-out hot pink outfit is daunting, take some tips from model Chanel Iman and incorporate neon into your accessories. “Since my style is more vivacious and relaxed, taking a simple dress and accessorizing it is always my favorite way to elevate my summer look,” says Iman.
Courtesy of Shinestar.
High Neck O-Ring Dress
This hot pink dress with cutout detail is the perfect way to make a statement for a summer dinner or a night on the town. Plus, if you want to tone it down, you can always wear a neutral-colored blazer on top.
I light up.
Dressing for the summer heat often means shedding layers and detailing in order to stay cool, which is why I love the mesh trend so much. Mesh adds texture and dimension to any look and can be worn for any occasion. For example, a slip-on mesh dress is the perfect cover-up for swimwear, or a mesh dress can be paired with layered jewelry and baggy jeans for a flattering daytime look. My favorite iteration of the trend is crisp white mesh dresses (like the one pictured above). Pair the dress with a contrasting bag and bright shoes to complete the look.
Courtesy of Mango.
Cotton dress with open work
This cut out dress from Mango comes with a slip underneath and hits just above the knee. The mesh overlay is supposed to be a little large, so don’t be afraid to size up.
I light up.
Only use a woven bag for days by the ocean? Beach, please. The beach bag has shrunk and is ready to be transported from town to country, to the pool and back again. Designers such as Loewe, Balenciaga and Prada have created durable versions of woven basket bags that are meant to be carried as handbags. The material and shape are definitely perfect for summer and are a great way to bring the seaside granny vibe into your everyday life. Whether you choose a colorful iteration or stick with classic neutral tones,
Courtesy of DeMellier.
Santorini Mini Tote
If you’re torn between neutrals and color, this DeMellier mini weave will give you the best of both worlds. It’s small enough to carry as a handbag, but will still fit over the shoulder.
I light up.
Are you attending a formal wedding? Feathers would look great on this. Maybe you have a big birthday party planned? A mini dress with feathers is a must. Or if you like to dress up for your daily coffee, then you’ve probably already worn the feather cut sleeves to impress the barista. Feathers are definitely the most fun fashion trend to embrace this summer.
Courtesy of ASOS Design.
Beaded Mini Dress With Feather Cuffs
ASOS has the best selection of bright feather casual dresses and I am absolutely obsessed with this orange one (and just bought it). Feather sleeves are oversized in the best way and you won’t be able to move your arm without getting 100’s of compliments.
I light up.
Whether you’ve been in a relationship for years or have taken the time to slip left or right, a slip dress is the ultimate date night look, and model Chanel Iman agrees. “I like to be comfortable and dresses do just the trick. For date night, I’ll choose a summer wardrobe – a little black dress,” says Iman.
Slips work great as an LBD or can be played with bright colors or patterns. A slip dress is not only sexy, but also very versatile. You can wear them on their own, over a t-shirt or with a blazer or sweater depending on your date night itinerary.
Courtesy of Free People.
Sunfade Slip Dress
This floral slip dress is extra flirty with the detailed lace hem. Pair it with kitten heels and a sparkly shoulder bag and everyone will be swooning over you.
I light up.
Calling all fashionistas! A body chain will take your look and accessories to the next level. Body chains look great with bikinis, crop tops or worn with baggy jeans in the summer – if you need further information, Hailey Bieber’s entire Instagram page is basically a body chain fan account. While I wish the trend would stick year-round, it’s hard to layer a body chain over a chunky wool sweater (though I dare you to try). This is definitely a trend to try before fall arrives.
Courtesy of 8 More Reasons.
Cuban Belly Chain
This body chain is simple and will add some sparkle and draw attention to your waist.
