6 minute read
Special Report
NOWstalgia Alert 2022
BY JANICE CARDINALE HEART-CENTRIC ENTREPRENEUR, CARDINALE CREATIVE
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I have been writing, presenting and inspiring trends for the last 35 years. It is in my DNA and I am passionate. I believe in pushing the boundaries of ordinary. Our lifestyles have changed and so have the trends. Style trends for 2022 are on point and will help you think outside the box.
However, they need to have value, purpose and recognize that what we present to clients must be of value, purpose and touch on the emotions of people.
People are being called to a higher consciousness in 2022. Humans are craving the comfort of familiar times. However, themes of the past are not equal. Individuals are looking for ways to engage in a different world. You have choices like never before.
With mentions of ‘nostalgia’, people are clearly craving the comfort of familiar times. Carefully consider how this nostalgic reference resonates with you.
There is a rising class of Gen-influencers who desire authenticity and transparency to spread ideas rather than products. Example: We will see many brands adopt younger people to help support the technical requirements, that the virtual and hybrid environments demand.
So, let’s tap into the trends...
Altbashes - RSVP to a new reason to celebrate parties for life's undercelebrated moments
What’s an Altbash? It’s something that deserves to be celebrated, even if it isn’t traditionally cause for a party. You broke up with your job, you found your life’s passion, you have adopted a pet, or you finally splurged on a badly needed vacations & milestones. There are many ways to bring this trend to life, so keep your eyes on bright colors, whimsical ideas and tablescapes that draw attention.
Celestial Celebrations - Parties that are out of this world
Here comes the sun. And the moon. And the stars. Millennials will throw cosmic parties this year. It’s the year of eclipses and planets. “There is something exciting happening in the sky almost every night of the year, if you know when and where to look. Watch out for star and moon shaped appetizers. Popcorn in celestial colors, drinks that use blue caraco. DJ’s playing “Total Eclipse of the sun” or other celestial offerings from the 60’s and 70’s.
Night Moves - (AKA) after hours exploration
The most memorable adventures will happen after sundown in 2022. People will turn to the quiet of the after-hours to invest in their travel bucket lists and nature excursions. Gen Z is driving this trend—good thing our phones take better night photos than ever. Watch out for the word “bioluminescence aesthetic”
Biophilic Design - When natures built into your environment
Biophilic design uses elements of nature to provide respite and joy to people in man-made spaces. You’ve seen plants, now meet LIVING rooms. Millennials are turning to plant-first design solutions this year to increase their connection to nature and enhance their wellbeing. Staircase gardens, biophilic interiors and floral ceilings are all trending up. The outside has become as important as the inside.
Curve Appeal - Arcs are in all around us and curves the word.
People love curve appeal. Investing in this shape and silhouette are both sensuous and inviting. “Did you know that in architecture, the circle is the strongest shape”. This circular design lends itself to sharing conversations more comfortably. Millennials, Boomers and Gen X are driving searches behind this well-rounded trend.
All Checkered Everything - Check please
Checkers are having their moment in all areas—from clothing, to rugs to funky flooring. Millennials and Boomers in particular are driving this checkered trend. This revival comes at a time where we have collectively experienced a great transcendence in the face of life-altering changes. For this generation, the checkerboard is a universal motif for fun that offers a touch of softness in an otherwise dull and rigid world.
Emotional Escape Rooms - Safe spaces for feel good
Emotions, are so hot right now. The wellness trend has been growing rapidly over the past 2 years. From spa-like spaces to the wonderful world of color psychology. People will plan their great (indoor) escapes and designate rooms in their homes to decompress, vibe and rage. Music-themed rooms, crystal rooms and even rage rooms. Emotional escape rooms very much do what they say - they're rooms to escape.
Lake it, till you Make it - Trade in beachfront getaways for an inland swim
Lakes will have their moment in the sun. In 2022, people will trade in their beachfront getaways for inland swims. Gen X and Boomers are driving this freshwater trend that will only grow in the year ahead. Lakeside resorts, pontoon boats, kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing will all be making a splash.
The Last Resort - All in for all-inclusive travel sitting back is the new adventure map.
In 2022, people want to get away—to beautiful escapes where they won’t have to lift a finger. Millennials, Gen X and Boomers are turning to resorts and all-inclusive packages for easy getaways. Another daiquiri, please. Ask your travel partners where you can find resorts to unplug. Forget the jammed packed itineraries and head for the properties with an ocean view.
Flexercise - For the love of movement
Well, good news! 2022 is going to be defined by a range of new wellness trends set to change the game. From hula hoops, to pickleball and VR. Low impact is the new high intensity! This year, people will fall in love with more mellow ways to move their bodies, which is being dubbed “Flexercise. ” Hula-Hoop is the top search trend on google. Pickleball is a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong and can be played indoors or outdoors, as singles or as doubles. VR will now make it to the mainstream with Gamification fitness.
Cuppa Time - Afternoon tea is the new happy hour
In 2022, the bubble won’t burst, as people will choose teas made with enhancements over drinks after work. Afternoon tea is a moment, an aesthetic, a pose. Already a cultural phenomenon across Asia, bubble tea has taken hold in North America – especially amongst Gen Z. Have you tried a bubble milk shot? What are you waiting for?
Come on get happy
People in 2022 will push through the negative and embrace a positive outlook on life. New optimists range from Gen Z to Boomers, but despite their broad demographic, they have many unifiers – the largest being a vivacious appetite to embrace joy.
Pursuit of Purpose
Prompted by cultural shifts and changes, people are seeking to reevaluate their lifestyles to behave with more intention. Indulging is an actionable idea that brings results. To tap into this shift towards purposeful behaviors, brands, businesses and organizations should inspire and motivate people to take back control of their lives.
