Spring will certainly herald in some new looks for both men and women this year. Designers appear to be returning to the seventies and nineties for inspiration. Many of the catwalk shows present extreme looks to catch our attention, which are then copied by the high street. Let’s see what is in store this season!

Men
I often feel men are neglected in fashion previews, but this isn’t the case for 2022. Sleeveless is the big buzz word; better to warn you in case you want to dig out the dumbbells! This style isn’t limited to t-shirts, though – you’ll see it on sweaters and even blazers.
Exposed biceps seem to be the order of the day for fashion houses like Prada, while Paul Smith is showing waistcoat styles with nothing underneath.

Hermes are offering three button suits in cotton and linen. Forget dull grey and blacks; designers are going for a huge palette of incredible colours.

Before the bare arms appear in the next few months, you’ll be able to get your fix of cardigan-coats – basically a very heavy knit cardigan, often in a coat length, and again in bright shades.

Oversized shorts are also popular. If you have a spare £550 in your wallet, head to Giorgio Armani for a stylish pair. Sadly, designer prices do not reflect the lack of sleeveless fabric, but you’ll be able to find more affordable alternatives when they hit the high street shops.

Women
Similar to the men, there will be a lot of cut outs, bare midriffs and see through materials. Personally, after two years of staying mostly at home and potentially over-indulging, I’m not quite sure this was the right way for designers to go!

Fear not, as there are many more flattering alternatives, starting with the ever-popular denim. New denim styles are reminiscent of the 90s but with easy updates – not just different fabrics, but also different styling.

Forget skinny jeans – the new shapes are balloon style, which taper down at the ankles. Cropped flares are a modern twist; Zara has a great pair of mid-rise, cotton flares for £22.99 (top right). Personally, I find a slight flare elongates the leg and is very flattering.

Not sure where to go? Marks and Spencer has magic shaping jeans and has sold over 2 million pairs in less than six months – they must be doing something right. These jeans are made using clever technology with super stretch fabric, making them soft and comfortable. Promising to lift your bottom and slim the appearance of any spare tyre, they offer a high waist option at £39.50.

Gap, now missing from the high street, still sell online and their ‘sculpt’ jeans range comes in at £54.95 a pair. They have contouring and support to make them super comfortable, and to give a smooth, sleek look.

When it comes to dressing yourself this year, personal style is really the key; nothing is either in or out and fashion is what you want it to be. Loud colours and shiny finishes are what you will find on the high street. I think colour cheers us all up, especially after a grey winter.
Lengths seem to be extreme – either really short or really long – and fringing is popular, from the hem of jumpers to hand bags. Fashion should be about having fun, so make sure you do so this spring!