We’re Fashion Editors, And Here’s Our 2022 Summer Aesthetic

Call it a fashion person thing, but curating a style aesthetic at the top of each season is crucial. It’s like putting together an itinerary ahead of a big trip or drawing out the blueprint before working on new construction; it’s the sartorial roadmap for how we want to dress during the season. And having one in mind makes it that much easier to plan and shop for new pieces to add to your wardrobe. Last year I was deep into a Helmut Lang and Margiela phase ( I still sort of am), so everything I bought was either sleek, quirky, or decked out with cool fabrics. Since maintaining that aesthetic was top of mind, I knew I could immediately pass on anything floral or too dainty. Now in 2022, my mood is focused on all things printed and saturated for the summer season. As a curious editor, I wanted to know how my fellow Who What Wear editors were determined to dress during the heatwave. With inspo images in mind, each shared with me the summer aesthetic they’re determined to nail this year (and it spans every aesthetic you can possibly think of). To see the full rundown of my fellow editors’ style vibes this summer (or to sort one out for yourself), keep scrolling.

“I live in the South, which is very warm and very casual in the summer, so my aesthetic is pretty chill. I plan on wearing lots of easy, trend-forward pieces with a focus on color and fun accessories.”

“I’m all about the relaxed aesthetic these days. After a decade of wearing skinny jeans, relaxed denim and oversize shirting just feel fresh and modern to me.”

“Simple is the name of my summer-style game. I’m leaning into minimalist silhouettes like strapless tops and sleek maxi hemlines with hints of Y2K elements like low rises.”

Strangely I’ve done a 180 from last year, and am now going hard for loud statements like juicy, vibrant hues, large prints, and color blocking. But I’m also injecting a little of this year’s more risque trends like cut-outs and bodycon pieces.

“This summer I’m going for a simple-yet-elevated off-duty vibe. Think strong staples like tailored trousers and ribbed tanks paired with ’90s-inspired glasses and the coolest flat sandals you can find. I’m looking for clothes that say style without screaming it, and to be mistaken for some of our favorite It-girls. Think street style pictures of Hayley Beiber of Sydney Sweeny caught off guard.”

“I literally can’t stop daydreaming about summer. My brain is a series of images that one might call a moldboard. I picture myself running through the crosswalks of New York City in a bright and colorful collection of sleek dresses and powerful sandals. Color can be scary but 2022, is not the year to be shy—embrace your inner rainbow.”

“This summer—my vibe is “vacationing in Europe” because even if I’m not heading overseas this summer, I’m going to dress and act like I am. Bring on the ethereal dresses, linen galore, and woven handbags. I’m ready to pretend I’m living my best European life.”

Next up: The Net-a-Porter Team Knows What’s Good: 21 Summer Finds They’re Actually Buying