What to wear? Fashion trend predictions for 2025
Seasons change, so does fashion and I say that 2025 will be bolder than ever. 2024 saw the pendulum swing from the restraint of quiet luxury to a louder, more expressive approach. From the all-consuming coquette revival to Charli XCX’s sucker-punch Brat Summer , these moments in fashion conveyed a desperate desire to abandon the “if you know, you know”, “less is more” attitude of fashion. Goodbye to the ‘clean girl aesthetic’, maximalism is back, baby—no matter which aesthetic you align yourself with. As we continue this pursuit for individuality, here are some of my trend predictions for this upcoming year!
The Boho Renaissance
Photos: Chloé; Isabel Marant; Zimmermann
Thanks to Chemena Kamali, Chloé dominated 2024 and fueled the resurgence of the boho-chic, ‘music festival’ aesthetic of the mid 2000s. However, unlike its problematic predecessor, this season’s boho is less about appropriative ‘ethnic’ detailing but more about effortless femininity and romance.Key pieces include flowing dresses and tiered maxi skirts. Lace, tulle and ruffles will be essential to achieve the whimsical and ethereal layering. To cut through the airiness, add
a touch of suede or leather—think Sienna Miller, with coin belts, cowboy boots and motorcycle jackets galore. The return of the cult-classic Balenciaga Le City bag further cemented that this aesthetic is back in full force.
Animal Print, Everything
Photos: Bottega Venetta; Getty Images; Vogue
Not only is leopard print NOT going out of style, get ready to hold space for other striking prints such as tiger and zebra stripes, snakeskin and cow-print. You’ll see it everywhere— including coats, bags and jeans—the sky’s the limit. I wouldn’t be surprised to see this animal craze go a step further, with people rocking bold animal motifs of their favourite friendly (or not so friendly) creatures. I already own multiple feline-themed pieces so I am a big fan of this.
Welcome to the Dollhouse
Photos: Getty Images; Marc Jacobs; Glamour UK
Fashion has long been used as a form of escapism, and with the current state of the world, nostalgia will continue to be a recurring theme. Jelly sandals, Mary Janes and ballet flats made a huge comeback within the past few years, and 2025 will lean into this sentiment even further. Look out for styles reminiscent of one’s childhood toys such as polly pockets, teddy bears, and tea sets. An influx of kitschy motifs, candy-coloured fashion, playful textures and surrealist accessories are on the horizon, as evidenced by Marc Jacobs instantly viral Fall 2024 show. Barbie mania may have peaked in 2023 with its tidal wave of hot pink, but now it’s taking on a new form in micro bags and cartoonishly oversized jewelry. Moreover, personal accessories such as stuffed animal keychains and bag charms will continue to rise in popularity as a form of self-expression.
Retro Athleisure
Photos: Ferragamo; Tory Burch; Miu Miu
Luxury brands are once again finding inspiration in the often least luxurious pieces in one’s wardrobe—athleisure. While the previous decade saw normcore-inspired athleisure dominate the fashion scene— this time it's a little different. With the rise in community oriented sports and activities such as pickleball, run clubs or ballet classes, activewear is evolving beyond the mundane. Recent shows have toyed with this idea, from Ferragamo’s ballet-core to Tory Burch’s swimwear inspired looks. Dressing for these activities is not only about optimal performance, but participating in this collective fashion identity. These styles will trickle down into mainstream fashion with ring tees, jerseys, track pants and capri-length leggings defining the scene.
Slim-cut pants
Photos: Vogue; Mugler; Glamour
Who would’ve thought after years of increasingly baggy styles we’d see the return of skinny trousers? Brands such as Isabel Marant, Mugler and Prada are reimagining this style with modern details. Bring out these pieces from the back of your closet and give it a try! There are numerous ways to style them without it feeling outdated—it’s all about creating the right silhouette. Wear a head to toe monochromatic look to create an elongating effect, or you may choose to balance the tight fit with an oversized upper half such as flowy tunics or chunky sweaters. I believe the make or break with this silhouette are the shoes—so be careful with that. Personally, I love the way Kate Moss styled them in the early 2000s, especially tucked into knee high boots.
Sea’s the Moment
Photos: Jacquemus; Miu Miu; Sacai
All the way from the docks to the runways, fashion’s latest catch is the fisherman aesthetic. Pinterest’s 2025 trend forecasting shows increased interest in pieces with the coastal-cool, nautical allure— including Breton stripes, chunky cable knit sweaters and fisherman sandals. Mixed with a dash of East Coast prep, it-girl labels are experimenting with this style. Miu Miu’s SS25 show incorporated sandals paired with oversized raincoats while Jacquemus Cruise featured loose-fitted linens and fisherman head scarves, with the colour seafoam leading the show’s palette. Accessories such as woven bags, seashell jewelry and gold accents are adding a touch of refinement to the breezy charm of this aesthetic.
Finally, it’s important to note that while I am excited to experiment with these new styles, mindful consumption is key. Look at your own wardrobes before making any impulsive purchases that you ultimately regret. I’ve found that at least half of the time, I already have something interesting that I can work with. Remember, personal style is curated over time! Wear what works best for you instead of blindly chasing trends.