THE 2025 TRENDS...
Written by: Marina Townsend
Photo Credit: @sarahlysander
The fashion trends of 2025 feel like a stylish déjà vu, as the industry reworks iconic looks from the past and serves them with a contemporary twist. Thanks to the influence of the global fashion powerhouses, what’s flooding the market this year are utility dresses, tailored trousers, hot-pants, elevated sportswear, and the ever-versatile neat flat sneakers are only a handful of what’s to come. It’s an eclectic mix that blends functionality with flair, offering something for everyone—or so the brands hope.
However, there’s a growing movement that’s throwing a chic wrench into these plans: No Buy 2025. Consumers across the globe are increasingly questioning the value of fast and luxury fashion. Many are choosing to hit pause on new purchases altogether, creating what could be a nightmare scenario for retailers. Despite this, there’s still a sizeable crowd eager to buy and showcase their style. But the winds are shifting—more shoppers are becoming aware of the “trends recycling” game, where yesterday’s fads are repackaged and sold as today's must-haves, often at exorbitant prices. With polyester-heavy reworked trends from the 90s lining shelves, many are opting to shop smarter, not harder.
Secondhand Renaissance: The Future of Shopping?
Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces are poised to shine in 2025. Why splurge on a new, poorly-made polyester piece when you can find the original—crafted from natural fabrics—at a fraction of the price? The appeal of secondhand shopping isn’t just economic; it’s also deeply rooted in sustainability. Plus, there’s a thrill in digging through your own storage boxes to rediscover gems from decades past, offering both nostalgia and practicality.
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The Skincare Revolution: Glow Goals and Dewy Dreams
When it comes to beauty, 2025 is all about skincare supremacy. Forget contour palettes and heavy foundations—achieving a natural, radiant glow is the ultimate goal. Social media has become a hotspot for skincare inspiration, with even teens and pre-teens hopping online to share their 10-step routines before heading off to school.
Remarkably, skincare has become the unlikely hero of emotional support threads. It’s not uncommon to see someone pour their heart out over a breakup, only to be met with a chorus of “drop the skincare routine!” This shift signals a cultural change: people are prioritizing wellness and self-care, with a particular focus on that fresh, dewy look that screams, “I drink water and mind my business.”
From anti-aging serums to prejuvenation, consumers are willing to invest in products that promise tighter, healthier skin. Beauty brands are taking note, catering to this glow-obsessed audience with innovative formulas and eco-friendly packaging.
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What Does This All Mean for 2025?
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In essence, 2025 is a year where mindfulness meets style. Consumers are finding new ways to embrace fashion and beauty while rejecting the wasteful, exploitative practices of the past. Whether it’s through thrifting, DIY wardrobe updates, or indulging in high-quality skincare, people are rewriting the rules—and they’re doing it with a blend of pragmatism and flair.
For brands, this is both a challenge and an opportunity. To remain relevant, they’ll need to embrace sustainability, prioritize authenticity, and genuinely connect with the evolving needs of their audience. For everyone else? It’s a chance to make thoughtful choices, express individuality, and redefine what it means to be fashionable in a rapidly changing world.
