While this hodgepodge of trends may appear overwhelming at first look, we’ve carefully combed through the most popular — and purchased — products of the last year. As you peruse through the options to inspire your next shopping spree, certain themes will emerge: Refinery29 readers loved staying cozy this past year. We’re talking about loose nap dresses, relaxed-fit cargo denim, and comfy slippers all topping the shopping list. One-and-done outfits, like boiler suits and matching sweatsuits, were also the sartorial highlights of this past year, as people gravitated toward pieces that didn’t require additional styling. On the accessories front, shoppers were all about the Y2K fashion comeback, buying early-aughts baubles like belly chains and chunky rings.
Take a walk down memory lane and pick up the pieces you might have forgotten to buy along the way. Scroll ahead, for the 29 products R29 readers bought and loved in the last 12 months.
Tenniscore
While we welcomed tenniscore, an athleisure aesthetic inspired by the popular sport, to our closets in 2021, expect its popularity to only rise. In particular, pleated skirts and matching workout skort sets were a hit with the shoppers. The preppy style works both on and off the court and is perfect for fall.
Shop Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Ribbed Polo Tank, $, available at
Corsets
The return of Bridgerton influenced numerous brands to put a Regencycore fashion spin on the bustier — a lingeries-as-outerwear style that even our editors can’t get enough of. Fashion enthusiasts have particularly enjoyed satin, chiffon, and bandage styles. Even better: One of the buzziest styles was less than $60.
Shop Zara
Zara Floral Corset Top, $, available at
Puff-Sleeve Tops
Although cottagecore peaked in 2020, one trend from the aesthetic lineup has refused to let up in the two years since: frothy puff sleeves. While voluminous bell-sleeve blouses in floral prints and pastels are the ultimate statement pieces for spring and summer, options in velvet or muted colors will work just as well for fall and winter.
Shop & Other Stories
& Other Stories Puff Sleeve Top, $, available at
White Button-Down Shirts
Once you find a button-down that fits, it’s hard not to wear the versatile staple on repeat. This past year, people went for oversized styles to sport as loose outerwear over dresses and tanks. The best part is that you can wear this basic year-round, with endless styling capabilities.
Shop J.Crew
J.Crew Classic-Fit Soft Gauze Shirt, $, available at
Matching Sweatshirt Set
The foolproof one-and-done look: a coordinated set. It doesn’t get better than lounging around in a comfy sweatsuit and then, with a change of shoes, having the ability to run errands in it, too. One reason they’re not going anywhere? The comfy sets are endlessly iterable and can be updated to match the current color trends or prints.
Shop Reformation
Reformation Hunter Classic Sweatshirt, $, available at
Reformation Boyfriend Sweatpant, $, available at
Jumpsuit
Another one-and-done piece that is a surefire winner in our style books is jumpsuits. In particular, R29 readers and editors enjoyed the effortless qualities of this lightweight piece from Alex Mill and the different variations, from short-sleeve options to ones featuring funky prints, of the brand’s signature utility style.
Shop Alex Mill
Alex Mill Standard Jumpsuit In Cotton Twill, $, available at
Loose House Dress
A soft, worn-in T-shirt and shorts getup is an easy look to jump into to work from home, but slipping into a loose airy frock creates an instant put-together appearance even if you woke up five minutes before a Zoom call. No worries we’ve all been there.
Shop Hill House Home
Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress, $, available at
Maxi Dress
The billowing floor-length frock was the runner-up dress favorite. My suggestion: Anthropologie’s best-selling Somerset Maxi dress that requires zero additional styling thanks to its dramatic maxi hemline. Recently, the linen iteration — now with pockets! — has made its highly anticipated debut.
Shop Anthropologie
The Somerset Collection by Anthropologie The Somerset Maxi Dress: Linen Edition, $, available at
Party Dress
Rewind to the 2000s because Y2K-inspired mini dresses, halter tops, and glitter and shine have all joined in on the fun. A can’t-miss short dress is an attractive piece to have in your wardrobe and can save the day when you don’t want to rely on your over-used LBD for a night out. Long live the party girl aesthetic!
Shop Betsey Johnson On Torrid
Betsey Johnson Convertible Dress Ponte Tattoo Sketch, $, available at
Bike Shorts
Gone are the days when spandex shorts were only for long-distance cyclers. The athleticwear is part of street style outfits and is a beloved bottom for warm-weather days. Pair it with an oversized blazer and blouse for a chic look or a hoodie for a more casual vibe.
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Align High-Rise Short With Pockets 6″, $, available at
Midi Skirt
A midi skirt — especially this silk one from Quince — has been a longtime fan favorite. And who can blame shoppers? It’s an effortless style that you can wear year-round, whether with a sweater for cool days or a ribbed tank top for the summer.
Shop Quince
Quince Washable Silk Skirt, $, available at
Micro Skirt
Who can forget the micro Miu Miu skirt? Ever since the viral look debuted on the catwalks of the spring 2022 runways, fashion trailblazers were ready to test out the controversial bottom that shows more than it covers. Refinery29‘s fashion writer’s pick: this Miaou style.
Shop Miaou On Revolve
Miaou Micro Mini Skirt, $, available at
Baggy Pants
In 2021, tight and restricting skinny jeans were declared dead, which gave rise to the breezy wide-leg silhouette. A popular early-aughts style, baggy jeans have won shoppers over this year thanks to their comfortable relaxed fit and timeless style appeal.
Shop Madewell
Madewell Baggy Straight Carpenter Jeans: Fruit Embroidered Edition, $, available at
Cargo Jeans
There are many names for these practical pants marked by their pockets — carpenter jeans, utility jeans, combat trousers, etc. Regardless of what you call them, cargo jeans are becoming the most popular denim trend of 2022. In fact, the throwback trend resonates so much with consumers that the shopping app Klarna reported a 103% increase in purchases over the past year.
Shop ASOS
ASOS DESIGN Hourglass Cargo Jeans In Stone, $, available at
Low-Rise Jeans
The controversial low-rise jeans came back in 2021 and can since be found in stores everywhere. Whether people love or hate the Y2K trend that requires simultaneously pulling up your pants while sitting down, one thing is for sure: we are all testing it out.
Shop Free People
The Ragged Priest | Free People Low-Rise Baggy Jeans, $, available at
Grandma-Inspired Costume Jewelry
Tik Tok’s coastal grandma aesthetic repopularized costume jewelry, bringing back everything from bedazzled statement earrings to big brassy necklaces that wouldn’t look out of place in your nana’s jewelry box. More-is-more is the mindset to embrace with this one.
Shop BHLDN
BHLDN Nicola Bathie Mae Earrings, $, available at
Chunky Rings
Child-like baubles also were all over TikTok this year, with chunky rings of radiant hues and whimsical prints a favorite. For maximum style impact, layer on several styles of different shades and sizes. Bonus: You can buy these candy-colored styles in packs for as little as $12.
Shop Amazon
AIDSOTOU 20 Piece Colorful Chunky Resin Rings, $, available at Amazon
Belly Chains
Readers loved how thin delicate waist chains added that extra sparkle and glitz to an outfit. Also that they pay homage to the early 2000s. If you’ve yet to try, Missoma, Bagatiba, Petit Moments, and more Instagram-favorite brands offer dainty body jewelry for the more subtle type of shopper.
Shop 8 Other Reasons On REVOLVE
8 Other Reasons Star Chain Belly Chain, $, available at
Glass Handbags
Call Cinderella because she left behind her glass slippers — and a purse to match, too. The glass handbag was the most unexpected pick that R29 readers were curious about. With proper care, the see-through style can be a dazzling statement item that will make your lipgloss and wallet look like works of art.
Shop Etsy
CozzzySpot Adorable Tote Bag, $, available at
Drawstring Handbags
The drawstring bag trend has been on the rise since Chanel showed the slouchy 22 styles on the spring ‘22 runway. It’s a simple, functional holds-all silhouette that boasts more personality than an everyday tote. Plus, you won’t have to worry about your daily necessities falling out.
Shop Free People
FP Collection Billie Suede Crossbody, $, available at
Balaclavas
Last year, the full face covering was a hit among celebs like Kim Kardashian and runway designers like Miu Miu, Tod’s, and Bevza. Eventually, it trickled down to fashion lovers searching for a cold-weather accessory to keep them toasty. We, too, are fans of the trend, which will no doubt return this fall and winter.
Shop 3.1 Phillip Lim On Farfetch
3.1 Phillip Lim Chunky Knit Balaclava, $, available at
UGGS
Pack away the worn-in shearling boots you had since college, and join the crew by slipping into a pair of furry, slide-on UGG slippers. It’s a much-needed thank you to your aching feet after a summer of heels and strappy sandals.
Shop UGG On Nordstrom
Ugg Genuine Shearling Slipper, $, available at
Ballet Flats
Dainty flats are just as ideal for gliding into the office as they are for sporting to weekend brunches. Pair the ballet style with a ribbed tank top and flowy midi skirt in the warmer months or a trench coat, slouchy sweater, and a pair of jeans for the cool seasons.
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Italian Leather Day Ballet Flat, $, available at
Clogs
If you’re a clomp-curious fan, try this cool ’70s-esque shoe that is beloved for its functionality, dependability, and comfort. There are endless variations on the chunky shoe, from traditional leather-wood styles to ones made from cork and colorful rubber. Chances are, you unknowingly probably own a pair already.
Shop Amazon
MIA Shoes Abba Clog-Inspired Sandal, $, available at Amazon
Chelsea Boots
These ankle-high boots have reigned as the go-to cold-weather shoes thanks to their classic silhouette, durability, and versatility. And unlike thigh-high boots, which tend to dress up looks, or the trendy knee-length styles which often call for a shorter hemline, this shoe seamlessly goes with any outfit.
Shop Nordstrom
Caslon Miller Water Resistant Chelsea Boot, $, available at
Chunky Loafers
Bulked-up loafers add that extra oomph to an outfit. We’re talking about embellished hardware, thick soles, in a plethora of colors. It’s an edgy shoe to spice up the current preppy trend in fashion. Don’t forget to wear them with your white socks — it’s what all the cool kids are doing.
Shop Etsy
GORshoesUA Penny Loafer Classic Top Sider Shoes, $, available at
Mary-Janes
I had a pair of red Mary-Janes when I was young — and was obsessed with them. That’s why my 24-year-old self is excited that the footwear is once again carving its way into people’s hearts and shoe closets. Thus patent leather shoe is currently on my shopping wishlist.
Shop Marni On SSENSE
Marni Black Mary Jane Oxfords, $, available at
Platform Shoes
“The higher, the better” is a footwear motto that people have been preaching this summer — whether it’s for sandals, sneakers, boots, or mules. Not only does the elevation add a dramatic height boost, but it can bring a high-fashion touch to an everyday look like a sneaker.
Shop Converse On Nordstrom
Converse Move High Top Platform Sneaker, $, available at
New Balance Sneakers
Over the years, New Balances went from a quintessential dad shoe to a dad shoe everyone wants to wear — and they’re not going anywhere. The shoe brand’s signature classic 574 series has skyrocketed in popularity and become an emblem of the ugly sneaker trend thanks to buzzy collabs with the likes of Staud and Aimé Leon Dore.
Shop New Balance
New Balance 574 Core, $, available at
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