Senior editor and core member of the editorial team, contributing criticism and features across contemporary art, film and literature.

By Sara Bright

The world of fashion thrives on its ability to forecast the future, shaping our wardrobes long before we catch wind of what’s in style. As we step into 2025, fashion houses, data analysts, and cultural tastemakers have been weaving together predictions that reflect both societal shifts and personal expressions. From tactile fabrics to bold accessories, the style landscape for 2025 promises to be as eclectic as it is forward-thinking.

The Revival of Suede and Boho Elegance
Suede, a fabric synonymous with softness and sensuality, is making a triumphant comeback. This trend is not just a passing fancy but a calculated resurgence driven by AI-powered insights. Analysts at Heuritech, an AI forecaster tracking millions of social media posts, reported an astonishing 128% growth in suede mentions towards the end of 2024. Its appeal lies in its timeless allure and versatility, seamlessly aligning with the boho-chic aesthetic set to dominate spring wardrobes.

Boho chic, with its romantic, flowy silhouettes and textural details, is also back in the limelight. Expect suede coats, lace-adorned maxi dresses, and chiffon blouses to grace wardrobes, reminiscent of the Olsen twins’ early 2000s bohemian style. The revival celebrates not only fashion nostalgia but a yearning for textures that feel tactile and luxurious.

The Bag Charm Craze: Personalisation Redefined
Accessories have always been a canvas for self-expression, but 2025 elevates this concept with the resurgence of bag charms. These playful yet elegant embellishments have emerged as must-have items, adorning luxury handbags on runways from Stella McCartney to Versace. According to data from WGSN, bag charm appearances on the runway have surged by 5.6% year-on-year.

The appeal lies in their versatility and personalisation potential. Much like the iconic Jane Birkin’s bag adorned with mementos, today’s bag charms cater to diverse tastes, blending nostalgic sentimentality with contemporary style. Whether it’s furry pom-poms, intricate beading, or leather accents, these small adornments pack a punch in individuality.

Picture-Perfect Pyjamas: Sleepwear Beyond the Bedroom
As fashion continues to embrace the multifunctionality of clothing, pyjamas are taking centre stage as a trend far removed from their nocturnal origins. WGSN has identified elegant matching pyjama sets as a key item in holiday wardrobes, doubling as beach cover-ups, travel attire, and even daytime ensembles.

The trend reflects a growing demand for versatile and luxurious pieces. Influencers like Sophie Turner and Joan Smalls have already been spotted embracing this trend, making it clear that pyjamas, once relegated to the bedroom, are now synonymous with chic leisurewear.

Skinny Jeans: The Slow-Burn Comeback
For over a decade, skinny jeans were a wardrobe staple before they were unceremoniously dismissed in favour of looser silhouettes. Now, they’re re-emerging, albeit cautiously, as a style option for those ready to embrace nostalgia. Designers like Coach and Miu Miu have spearheaded their return with low-rise, second-skin fits on recent runways.

Though wide-leg and relaxed-fit jeans remain dominant, skinny jeans signal a broader cultural revival of the 2010s aesthetic – dubbed “indie sleaze.” This resurgence is not about replacing current trends but coexisting with them, offering an alternative for those drawn to the form-fitting allure of yesteryear.

Cherry Red Dominates the Palette
While Pantone has named mocha mousse brown as the colour of 2025, cherry red is making a louder, more vibrant statement. Social platforms like Pinterest have shown a sharp increase in searches for “dark cherry red” and “cherry vibe,” suggesting that this shade resonates deeply with younger audiences.

Cherry red’s versatility allows it to transcend seasonal limitations, appearing in everything from tailored suits to accessories. Celebrities such as Lily Collins and Zendaya have been seen sporting this bold hue, reinforcing its status as the year’s definitive colour statement.

Sustainability and the Circular Fashion Movement
No fashion forecast for 2025 would be complete without addressing the growing emphasis on sustainability. The push towards circular fashion – where garments are designed to be reused, repaired, and recycled – continues to reshape the industry. From biodegradable fabrics to digital wardrobes powered by blockchain, 2025 is set to push the boundaries of eco-conscious innovation.

Luxury brands are taking note, blending sustainable practices with their design ethos. Gucci’s Off the Grid collection and Stella McCartney’s mushroom leather accessories are just two examples of how high-end fashion is leading the charge. This shift not only appeals to environmentally conscious consumers but reflects a broader responsibility towards the planet.

The Influence of AI and Digital Fashion
Artificial intelligence is no longer just a tool for trend forecasting – it’s shaping the way fashion is designed and consumed. Digital fashion, where consumers can purchase virtual garments for avatars, is becoming mainstream. As platforms like Instagram and the metaverse grow in popularity, digital fashion provides a sustainable alternative to fast fashion, reducing physical waste while offering endless creativity.

This digital transformation also extends to retail, with brands using AI to personalise shopping experiences and predict consumer behaviour. It’s an exciting fusion of technology and tradition, ensuring fashion remains innovative without losing its essence.

What These Trends Mean for You
Fashion in 2025 is about more than just aesthetics; it’s a reflection of the cultural, technological, and environmental zeitgeist. Suede coats and skinny jeans may capture the imagination, but the deeper narrative lies in how these trends speak to individuality, sustainability, and innovation.

Whether you’re drawn to the playful charm of a personalised handbag or intrigued by the rise of digital wardrobes, the coming year promises a wealth of possibilities. As the lines between luxury and accessibility blur, fashion is not just forecasting – it’s rewriting the rules of self-expression.