It feels like yesterday when the new AW 24 ranges were hitting the shop floor. The product ranges in stores have suddenly it seems shifted to partywear, occasionwear and gifting while in grocery the range of party food and gift items has imploded!!!
I am always curious to see what food ingredients and trends will be most popular for the season. It’s easy to measure and compare trends from year on year. Last year my social feeds had SO many puff pastry trees and this year it is ALL about the pavlova tree cake !!
In fashion apparel the top trending piece again this year is a sequin-covered jacket / top adorned with satin bows up the front or back, perfect for combining chic style with festive sparkles.
You may have seen this last year from H&M but this year it has gone ‘viral’ in popularity and Lots of retailers offered a version in their ranges.
As fashion buyers and merchandisers, staying ahead of the curve is essential. Whether you’re planning for the next season or strategising long-term, anticipating these shifts is what gives you that competitive edge. Understanding what was popular this year is one thing but being able to create another ‘viral’ item next year is the challenge. It will be interesting to watch what next years ‘move on’ or development from this style will be.
Fashion trends, predictions and ‘what’s next’ are always topics for discussion when you work in the fashion industry. As fashion buyers our focus is more on the micro trends that our customers will invest in but we also have to be aware of the bigger picture at a macro level as to what will drive these buying decisions. The macro level trends impact how your customers are making their buying decisions, how they’re going about purchasing their products.
Looking ahead to 2025 , some of the key areas being talked about that will shape the industry are the following
The (continued) Rise of Neo-Minimalism: If there’s one word to describe this trend, it’s “understated luxury.” We’re looking at clean lines, neutral palettes, and high-quality fabrics that don’t scream for attention. Think of it as “quiet luxury”—pieces that speak to a customer’s desire for timeless, investment-worthy items. One brand that embraces minimalism is The Row.They’ve shown that basics can be elevated through quality fabrics and attention to silhouette. Consider pieces like a perfectly cut blazer or a versatile midi dress. These are the types of items that customers can return to time and again, feeling both on-trend and timeless.
Actionable Tip: Focus on high-quality materials that emphasize durability and craftsmanship. This trend isn’t about following fads but curating pieces that bring long-term value. Think about collections that embody the “less is more” ethos. This is about offering quality over quantity.
Tech-Infused Textiles: Moving into tech, there is continued innovation in textiles with functional fabrics becoming mainstream—from UV-protective clothing to temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking materials. Uniqlo’s HEATTECH line integrates temperature-regulating technology to create clothing that adapts to the body’s warmth needs.
Actionable Tip:
Collaborate with tech companies or start conversations with fabric suppliers to explore these functional textiles. This is especially exciting for activewear or lifestyle-focused collections.
Playful Colors and Prints: Though minimalism is on the rise, there’s also a contrasting trend with bold, playful colors and prints emerging. Brands like GANNI have consistently embraced color, creating pieces that feel fresh and experimental. They use fun, unexpected color combinations and prints that resonate with customers looking to make a statement.
Actionable Tip: Think pops of color or one standout printed item that catches the eye. . a neutral collection complemented by just a few statement items—a colorful coat or printed blouse. This lets customers mix and match without feeling like they’re stepping too far outside their comfort zone.
Gender-Fluid Fashion:
Inclusivity continues to shape fashion, with a growing demand for gender-fluid and flexible sizing collections and versatile styles gaining mainstream traction.This trend emphasizes comfort and versatility, breaking down traditional gendered styling.
Actionable Tip: Think about designs that cater to comfort and adaptability with pieces that are comfortable and versatile enough to appeal across gender lines, with a particular focus on fabrics and cuts that adapt to different body types.
Circular Fashion Takes the Spotlight: Lastly, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore. Circular fashion—whether it’s through rental services, recycled fabrics, or take-back programs—is becoming a consumer expectation and continues to gain momentum. Reducing waste is no longer just a nice-to-have—it’s an expectation from consumers.
Actionable Tip: If you haven’t already, explore options to integrate circularity into your business. If you’re offering recycled fabrics in your products, highlight that in your marketing. If your brand is more premium, consider a repair or trade-in program. Circularity can be adapted to suit any price point or customer base—it’s all about aligning with customer values.
Fashion Sustainability remains a cornerstone of the fashion industry’s future.
There is a growing demand for fashion products that are ethically produced and have a minimal environmental impact. Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious but this does not always translate into actual purchasing decisions. In 2025, bring lasting change to fashion will continue to evolve. The focus continues on circular fashion systems with more and more brands adopting practices such as recycling, upcycling, and using biodegradable materials.
