After the lapse in trends during the pandemic, 2022 saw an exciting comeback in the fashion industry. With social media influencers largely dictating the current fashion scene, trends are moving faster than ever before. Many influencer and TikTok-driven aesthetic trends are gone before we can even manage more than a glimpse of them, but some have stuck around long enough that even the discerning non-social media user has noticed them. In stark contrast with the work-shirt-and-boxers fit for all the times you’ve had to turn on your Zoom camera, this year ushered in a refreshing change in fashion as we emerged from the dark pandemic era.

Leather jackets

All of a sudden, every other influencer is donning an oversized black leather jacket. It’s understandable why this is so — there’s something so chic about it that reminds me of the perfect date night fit, especially when paired with a black crop top, mini skirt, knee-high boots, gold jewelry and a bold pop of red lipstick. Leather jackets are a timeless staple and it would be pretty darn nice to own one without breaking the bank.

Chunky loafers

For the past few years, sneakers and boots have been the most popular flat shoe styles, along with ballet styles and mary janes. But in 2022, chunky loafers reigned supreme. Pair them with long white socks or leg warmers for an “academia aesthetic” or, on the opposite end of the spectrum, match them with edgy pieces to hop on the growing grunge trend.

Beaded Y2K jewelry 

This is by far my favorite trend of 2022, with smiley faces, flowers, and star beads strung together to form color-popping necklaces that scream the 2000s. That era saw the rise of creepy Furbies, silly band obsessions and password journals. That’s what makes the Y2K jewelry trend so fun — nostalgic, playful and irresistible, I hope this trend is here to stay.

Crochet

The ’70s happen to be part of the general resurgence of different decades in the fashion world, and wearable crochet has hit the runway hard and fast. Bucket hats, purses, crop tops — yarn can be made into virtually any garment. I’m afraid to wash crochet because I’ll probably ruin it, but if you know proper crochet care, I’m all here for that effortless aesthetic.

Pajama pants

Since high school, I’ve spent my days and nights in thrifted oversized sweaters and pajama pants. It’s always been a dream of mine to wear pajamas out and not be judged for it, and in 2022, my dream came true. Plaid pajama pants are perfect for when you can’t be bothered to dress up for class anymore. Or, if you’re like me, you never cared in the first place.

Micro miniskirts

I’m skeptical about how comfortable or practical this trend is, but micro miniskirts have been flooding my Pinterest feed. Paired with baby tees, mini purses and chunky loafers, I can’t deny this outfit goes hard. Would I wear it? Probably not. Do I think it looks gorgeous? Absolutely.

No matter the trends, remember that you can and should have fun mixing and matching your wardrobe. As the world emerges from the depths of a life-altering pandemic, there really are no rules when it comes to fashion. After all, trends fade, but style is eternal.