Rent the Runway style director shares her Spring/Summer 2022 trend report

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Samantha Crompton is an In The Know style contributor. Follow her on Instagram and visit her website for more.

In The Know sat down with Blaire Walsh, style director at Rent the Runway, to discuss spring and summer trends for 2022. Blaire has been with the company for over 12 years and is a natural fashionista.

Keep reading for six trends that Walsh is forecasting for this new year.

Trend from 2021 that’s here to stay:
Nods to Nostalgia

Calling all of our ’90s babies for a nod to nostalgia: “Thanks to the Gen Zers and TikTok, Y2K fashion is officially back. It’s a full-on revival of ’90s pop star style. Channel Britney, Christina and Destiny’s Child to nail this continuing trend,” Walsh told In The Know. Think bright crops, low-rise track pants and cargo denim.

RTR Designers on trend: House of Sunny, Sandy Liang, Marni, TheOpen Product, LNA, Coperni, Staud, Rokh, Monse, Andamane, Retrofête

Free People Leopard Butterfly Tee, $78

Credit: Free People

8 Other Reasons Butterfly Claw Clip, $31 (Orig. $55)

Credit: Revolve

New trend for Spring: 
Surf Chic

It’s time to grab your surfboard because this next trend is all about being surf chic. Wear your bikini top as a shirt, and style with a Bermuda button-up. Walsh says, “channel Kate Bosworth in Blue Crush because this trend is all about being a bada** beach babe.”

RTR DESIGNERS on trend: Just Bee Queen, Jonathan Simkhai, Andamane, Cult Gaia, Victor Glemaud, Nanushka, Nicole Miller, Scotch & Soda, Rixo, Sandro

Mikoh Milos Knot Front Detailed Sporty Top, $124

Credit: Shopbop

Shein Tropical Print Button Front Blouse, $12

Credit: Shein

2022’s most coveted bag style:
Handbags all about color

Handbags this season are about functionality, style and bold colors. “Brands are taking classic silhouettes and adding a funky twist. From small- to medium-sized in bright, bold colors mixed with earth tones and chain accents, these handheld moments are making a splash,” Walsh explained.

JW PEI Gabbi Bag, $89

Credit: JW PEI

Kate Spade Smile Small Shoulder Bag, $181 (Orig. $198)

Credit: Kate Spade

3 additional trends Blaire is forecasting 

  1. Get a taste of the rainbow over the next six months with Solar Powered Color: Think monochromatic hues worn head to toe, minimal jewelry and electric brights. 

FARM Rio Blue One Shoulder Dress, $200

Credit: Shopbop

2. Regal Resurgence: Channel your favorite Bridgerton character with style inspired by British fashion during the 19th century. “Regency is all about femininity, style and class,” Walsh told us. Designers such as Self Portrait, Caroline Constas, and LoveShackFancy all offer feminine and exquisite pieces, all available at RTR. 

English Factory Floral Puff Sleeve Mini Dress, $90

Credit: Shopbop

3. Cool, Calm, and Coordinated: Look put together while also staying on trend with a fun matching set. Whether you’re dressing for work, a night out with the girls or an intimate dinner party, two-piece sets are the way to go. 

Free People Fresno Set, $88

Credit: Free People

If you enjoyed this article, check out this guide to refreshing your makeup for 2022!

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