Pick a Favorite Shoulder, Because Asymmetrical Styles Are Everywhere for Spring '22

Sometimes, looking at future fashion trends can feel like torture. Here we are, bracing ourselves for the freezing cold winter months, and at the same time, we're daydreaming about the light, airy dresses and tiny shorts making their way down the spring runways. Ugh.

That's part of the reason why we were so excited to spot all the one-shoulder tops and dresses that are seemingly taking over next year. Sure, this asymmetrical look is one we enjoy wearing in the heat — it's cool, it's cute, and just sexy enough for outdoor dinner dates — but at the same time, there's no real reason why it won't work for fall, too, especially on transitional, in-between days.

Of course, 'one-shoulder' might not even be the best way to describe what we're seeing for spring '22. These designs are different in the best way; some include a few extra, hole-punched cutouts, while others create an illusion, simply highlighting one side. Regardless, it seems like influencers are already on board. We saw plenty of single-shoulder styles on the street during Fashion Week, proving this detail is an investment to wear both now and later.

PatBO

With the help of those contrasting colors, this crisscross, cutout design immediately caught our eye. We'd wear this one on a tropical vacation, or even to a wedding.

Christian Siriano

We just know someone, somewhere is going to show up at a major award show wearing this sleek sequined design. The side cutout adds some extra spice.

Victor Glemaud

Matching sets may be here to stay, but between that one-shoulder detail and eye-catching print, they'll feel fresh for spring '22.

LaQuan Smith

Dark, lacy, glam — we expect to see at least one It celebrity head to a dinner date night in this sexy number. And we guarantee we'll swoon all over again when we see it.

Ulla Johnson

If poufy sleeves are more your style, not to fret: the one-shoulder trend goes hand-in-hand with a whimsical aesthetic.

Moschino

Remember Gigi Hadid's runway tribute to baby Khai? She did it in a quirky, quilt-like dress — which yes, was a one-shouldered design.

Dundas X Revolve

This generation of single sexy shoulders doesn't play by the rules. For example, this Dundas X Revolve dress has a similar feel to one-sided styles, but is still covered up.

Monse

We also spotted a handful of peek-a-boo shoulder cutouts, much like Monse's eye-catching — and super comfy-looking! — sweater dress.

Sandy Liang

Asymmetrical pieces were definitely one of the themes of New York Fashion Week. While it may not be a traditional one-shoulder dress, this design drew our eyes to one side, while the top looked like an unfastened strap. Fun!

Keep an Eye Out for One-Shouldered Dresses

Longer-sleeved options will take you through the colder months, but also work when things warm up again. Eloquii's One Shoulder Sweater Dress ($100) is easy enough to throw on in a pinch, while Kim Shui's balloon dress ($330) will add a bit of color — in a subtle way — to a neutral fall wardrobe.

Switch Up Your Staples

Ease yourself into this trend by simply trading tank tops and tees for one-shouldered styles. This Good American bodysuit ($115) will pair perfectly with your favorite jeans, while Zara's bright blue asymmetrical top ($20) is a low-effort statement piece. Borne Collection's black Limitless Dress ($48; Originally $68) is also a smart wear-anywhere staple that can be dressed up or down.

Incorporate Layers

Even if it's a tad too cold for bare arms, letting a one-shoulder something peek out from underneath a leather jacket or blazer is still just as fun. The addition of a cutout ensures this NBD top ($138) will always be the star of the show, and if you're looking for something with extra warmth, try a one-shouldered turtleneck, like this one from The Range ($195) or Cotton Citizen x Revolve's light pink option ($33; Originally $125).