This season’s runway collections are a blend of nostalgic feelings and youthful innocence. Designers are drawing inspiration from bygone eras, creating a sense of longing for simpler times in the spring/summer 2025 collections. This isn’t just about repeating past styles; it’s about tapping into an emotional connection and searching for something deeper through fashion.
(Image credit: Chanel / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
In our increasingly digital world, where algorithms and social media dominate, there’s a desire for the tangible and familiar. The fashion trends of spring/summer 2025 offer an escape from the constant noise and pressures of modern life. These clothes, whether they evoke childhood memories or past eras, speak of times that felt less complicated and more authentic. Nostalgia is providing a moment of respite, and fashion is becoming a key form of escapism.
However, this trend isn’t solely about social media fatigue. Mounting global challenges are causing a sense of disconnection from ourselves and others. Identity has become fluid, and social media can blur the lines between genuine preferences and perceived expectations.
Fashion trends often reflect society’s deeper psyche. For spring/summer 2025, designers are bringing back nostalgic motifs and vintage-inspired garments, reminding us of a time when life seemed less pressured. These clothes are not about demanding attention, but about inviting us to truly feel and express ourselves.
For S/S 25, there’s a noticeable sense of joy and celebration of individuality. Fashion should be fun, allowing for playfulness and self-discovery. This season’s trends encourage exactly that. While elegance has been a dominant style in the past year, spring/summer 2025 is shifting towards more expressive and less restrictive fashion.
(Image credit: Saint Laurent / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
This shift from runway to real life is evident in the details, particularly in accessories. Bags with unique personalities and hats that bring a smile are prominent. Jewelry and scarves are styled in unexpected combinations, suggesting that imperfection is embraced. Spring/summer 2025 is about creating personal style and outfits that tell your own story.
In an era where identity can feel dictated by external forces, reclaiming your sense of self through fashion is a powerful statement. Dressing for joy and personal expression, whether in vintage-inspired dresses or bold, standout pieces, is a form of quiet rebellion. Authenticity is key for spring/summer 2025 fashion.
Spring/summer 2025 fashion trends, while drawing inspiration from the past, are firmly rooted in the present and will continue to influence future styles. Let’s explore the 17 key trends set to define the season.
The 17 Spring/Summer 2025 Fashion Trends That Matter Most
1. Powder Pink
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After analyzing thousands of runway looks, it’s clear that soft, sugary pink is the dominant color trend of the season. This shade provides a refreshing contrast to the deeper tones that were popular in previous months.
“Autumn/winter was all about burgundy… As we transition into S/S 25, this has been mellowed with the reintroduction of pink as the playful color choice,” explains Kay Barron, fashion director at Net-a-Porter. This pink is softer than recent shades, but it’s versatile and impactful, working well with navy and black, as seen at Alaïa.
(Image credit: Celine)
Morgane Speed, content editor at Lyst, confirms, “Powder pink has emerged as S/S 25’s most compelling color story… it’s a sophisticated meditation on softness as strength.” This pink shade is versatile, appearing in sharp tailoring and flowing evening wear, maintaining a gentle yet powerful impact.
Dr Carolyn Mair CPsychol, fashion business consultant, notes the psychological impact: “Soft pink traditionally conjures up a sense of femininity, innocence and joy, providing a break from the seriousness of recent times… Powder pink is often associated with softness, optimism, nostalgia and playfulness.” This trend reflects a desire for simplicity, childhood memories, and unfiltered joy.
Hannah Almassi, Who What Wear UK’s editor-in-chief, adds, “pink has become something of a mainstay in our wardrobes… powdery pink pieces float down the runway looking whimsical, magical and oh-so tempting… less power Barbie and more ethereal nymph.”
Shop the Trend:
SISTER JANE
Ballerina Floral-Jacquard Cloqué Midi Dress
GUCCI
Wool Jacket in Light Rose
2. Wrapped in Tulle
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Continuing the pretty and romantic theme, tulle is another key trend for spring/summer 2025. While “naked fashion” continues to be explored, there’s a distinctly romantic element to the way tulle is being used – often with models literally wrapped in the delicate fabric. This season’s tulle is a lighter take on the draping trend from autumn/winter.
(Image credit: Cinq à Sept / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Megan Storey, Who What Wear UK’s social media editor, notes, “A sheer moment for spring/summer is always fun… Not only do the tulle looks on this season’s runways feel undeniably sexy, the pastel shades at Chanel and interesting draping at Issey Miyake make many of the pieces chic and sophisticated too.”
Shop the Trend:
CHRISTOPHER ESBER
Veiled Draped Off-The-Shoulder Silk-Tulle Top
Danielle Frankel
Bridal Bernie Tulle Minidress
3. ’90s Plaid
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’90s plaid is making a comeback for spring/summer 2025, bringing with it a sense of nostalgia and rebellion. While checks are often associated with colder seasons, their presence in the S/S 25 collections, especially with ’90s palettes and styling, was undeniable.
Dr Mair explains, “Plaid is associated with tradition and past fashion eras—it evokes a sense of familiarity and comfort which we crave in times of uncertainty… plaid has rich socio-cultural significance… it is also associated with punk rock, which offers both a classic or rebellious look.” This versatility makes plaid suitable for both casual and formal wear.
(Image credit: Dior / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Storey adds, “There’s something so nostalgic about plaid… From flannel shirts synonymous with ‘90s grunge to preppy plaid miniskirts à la Cher Horowitz, I’m excited to see it on the S/S 25 runways… The plaid-on-plaid combo at Acne might be my favourite.” Lyst reports a 7% increase in searches for “plaid” and a 29% spike for “tartan,” indicating growing interest in this trend.
Shop the Trend:
BURBERRY
Asymmetric Ruffled Checked Silk-Crepe Dress
ZARA
ZW Collection Check Midi Skirt
4. The Little White Tank
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Nothing embodies spring/summer more than simple, minimal pieces, and for 2025, the little white tank is a key trend. This essential item repeatedly appeared on runways, emphasizing the beauty of basics.
Florrie Alexander, Who What Wear UK acting affiliate editor, states, “Over the past few years, there’s been a shift in fashion… The hard-working basics that create the foundations of our wardrobes are finally being celebrated, and the little white vest is a true example… It may not be the most head-turning piece, but it’s one that we turn to throughout the seasons.”
(Image credit: Beare Park / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Designers are focusing on quality and cut over excessive embellishments for S/S 25. Gucci adds a bold trim, and Cavalli uses intricate knitwork, but the focus remains on refined basics, moving away from large logos and cutouts.
Alexander’s observation is backed by data. Lyst reports a surge in searches for simple tank tops, with “Skims tank tops” searches increasing by 151% week-on-week. The little white tank is a versatile and sought-after piece for summer 2025.
Shop the Trend:
ARKET
Rib Tank Top in White
LOEWE
Anagram Tank Top in Cotton
5. Working Overtime
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’80s inspired workwear is a significant trend for spring/summer 2025. Think Wall Street power dressing with a modern twist. Saint Laurent’s collection perfectly embodies this aesthetic, bringing back the power suit era.
Kay Barron explains, “The demand for hard-working workwear continues to rise… Undertones of toughness were seen throughout the S/S 25 season as brands balanced hard with soft using fabrications like leather contrasting against sheer materials.”
Saint Laurent’s show highlighted sharp tailoring paired with leather jackets, reminiscent of ’80s power dressing. While the traditional suit may have evolved, these new iterations are designed to be worn beyond the office, 24/7, complete with ties.
(Image credit: Del Core / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Brittany Davy, editorial assistant at Who What Wear UK, shares, “Although I love classic ’80s fashion… Power dressing, however, is a throwback aesthetic that I can definitely get behind… Timeless and sleek, tailoring is an easy way to look put-together no matter the occasion. I especially love Saint Laurent’s burgundy suit.” This trend offers a timeless and sophisticated way to dress for summer 2025.
Shop the Trend:
Saint Laurent
Jacket in Silk Crepe
ZARA
Trousers With Double Pleat
6. Bags of Personality
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Bags with personality are set to dominate spring/summer 2025 accessories trends. After seasons of minimalist bags, designers are now embracing exuberant and distinctive styles, injecting fun and individuality into outfits.
Barron confirms, “The season is about embracing personality and individual style with big, bold accessories… Bags will be colourful, textured and outsized.” Net-a-Porter is investing heavily in these statement pieces to meet customer demand for zeitgeist accessories.
Speed notes, “If minimalism defined last season’s accessories, S/S 25 ushers in an era of bags with personality to spare… Designers are treating handbags as wearable art pieces, abandoning conventional forms in favour of sculptural silhouettes, unexpected materials and playful proportions.” Demand for Miu Miu handbags, known for their personality, is up significantly.
(Image credit: Mozhdeh Matin / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Dr Mair explains the psychological aspect, “As society moves away from uniform, minimalist styles, there’s a growing desire for self-expression… often turning to statement bags that reflect personality and potentially elicit conversation.” These bags fulfill a need for distinction and individuality in an increasingly digital world.
Remy Farrell, Who What Wear UK’s fashion editor, expresses enthusiasm for this trend, “After long worshipping at the altar of sacred minimalism, I’ve been desperately in need of a trend that does more with, well, more… S/S 25 is full of great and gilded treasures, so even if you’re content with the same white tee and jeans… any one of these eccentric and eye-catching bags will make your look feel entirely new.”
Shop the Trend:
FERRAGAMO
Hug Small Embellished Calf Hair Shoulder Bag
ALAÏA
Le Teckel Flap Leather-Trimmed Leopard-Print Calf Hair Shoulder Bag
7. Parachute Parade
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Parachute silhouettes bring volume to spring/summer 2025 fashion in a unique way. Unlike the ’80s-inspired volume of previous seasons, this trend is more subtle and fluid, reminiscent of deployed parachutes with soft palettes and dramatic drapery.
(Image credit: Proenza Schouler / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Poppy Nash, Who What Wear UK’s managing editor, describes it as, “parachute and power-pouffe details… A larger-than-life evolution of the bubble hem trend… in 2025 you can expect to see muted, ice-cream toned skirts with enveloping trains, blouses featuring puffed up shoulders, and plenty of exaggerated draping on maxi and mini dresses.” Brands like Chloé, Khaite, and Stella McCartney are key examples of this trend, where “the bigger, the better.”
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CHLOÉ
Cape-Effect Open-Back Ruffled Silk-Crepon Gown
Free People
Emilia Full Skirt
8. Chintz Florals
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Chintz florals, reminiscent of vintage tapestries, evoke a strong sense of nostalgia for spring/summer 2025. These prints bring warmth and familiarity, reminding many of home and tradition.
Dr Mair explains, “These nostalgic prints evoke warmth and familiarity… offering comfort and security through styles reminiscent of home and tradition… In Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, this aesthetic would be the basic need.” This trend is particularly appealing during times of change and uncertainty, offering a sense of comfort and safety.
(Image credit: Valentino / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Beyond sentimentality, chintz florals represent a departure from recent minimalist trends. Almassi notes, “Taking a direct turn away from minimalism and quiet luxury and stepping into a world where the codes of historical femininity are really amped up, chintz florals offer something kitsch and romantic… When you add in volume… there’s something very ironic and dramatic about it all.” Designers are also finding ways to tame these prints with tailoring and somber staples for a more serious take.
Shop the Trend
MARQUES’ ALMEIDA
Floral Brocade Top
Dries Van Noten
Floral Linen-Blend Jacquard Blazer
9. In the Navy
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Navy and nautical themes are subtly influencing spring/summer 2025 fashion. The nautical inspiration is refined and sophisticated, moving beyond typical clichés.
Speed describes it as, “The maritime mood sweeping through the S/S 2025 collections feels less like a trend and more like a refined reset… Classic navy and crisp white combinations feel newly relevant, while Breton stripes shed their casual associations for elevated territory.” This trend is a sophisticated lifestyle proposition, blending timelessness with contemporary ease. Lyst reports a 388% increase in demand for “Breton stripe,” confirming its popularity.
(Image credit: Rosie Assoulin / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Nash adds, “Stripes never go out of style, but in 2025 you can expect the preppy pattern to get a new lease of life as Sailor-core comes to the fore… perhaps more playful than ever before, the runway showed us how to make stripes feel fresh for the new year, playing with proportions and directions, as well as colour schemes.” Designers are experimenting with proportions, directions, and color combinations beyond traditional navy and white, offering a fresh take on nautical style.
Shop the Trend
Ralph Lauren
Stretch Jersey Wide-Leg Trouser
LILYSILK
Nautical Collar Shirt
10. Who Needs Buttons?
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Sometimes trends emerge not from new pieces but from new ways to style existing wardrobe staples. Unbuttoned shirts, seen widely on the runways, are a prime example for spring/summer 2025. Designers styled shirts unbuttoned to varying degrees, paired with trousers, shorts, or skirts.
(Image credit: Maria McManus / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Rebecca Rhys-Evans, senior fashion and beauty editor at Who What Wear UK, says, “Designers seem to be coming undone for the coming season, and I have to say I’m into it… Taking your shirting to new depths simply by unbuttoning it that little bit lower than what you’d usually deem comfortable is a simple way to elevate something très chic into something très chic and sexy.” This styling trick adds a touch of effortless sexiness to classic shirts.
Shop the Trend
TOTEME
Embroidered Organic Cotton Oxford Shirt
H&M
Oversized Shirt
11. Peep Show
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Heels are making a strong comeback for spring/summer 2025, and peep-toe heels are leading the charge. Runways showed a noticeable decrease in flat shoes, with Tagwalk reporting a 15% reduction compared to the previous season.
(Image credit: Giambattista Valli / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Natalie Munro, Who What Wear UK news writer, notes, “It’s been a long, long time since we’ve seen peep-toe shoes make waves on the runways, but this spring/summer they’re back like they never left… 2025’s pairs are sleeker and more sculptural than we’ve seen before.” Modern peep-toes are sleeker, more sculptural, and sometimes deconstructed.
Lyst reports a 144% increase in searches for Saint Laurent’s peep-toe pumps, indicating growing popularity. Peep-toe heels are back as a key shoe trend for summer 2025.
Shop the Trend
Reformation
Gloria Heeled Platform Sandal
Alaïa
Spike 55 Leather Peep-Toe Mules
12. Sports Day
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Sportswear influences are prominent across spring/summer 2025 collections, celebrating various sports from F1 racing to tennis. This season embraces a wide range of athletic inspirations.
(Image credit: Jil Sander / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Annie Wheatland-Clinch, assistant social media editor at Who What Wear UK, explains, “From the polo shirt resurgence to ‘Blokecore’… the last twelve months has been quite the year for sporty style… and if the recent runways are anything to go by, this is just the beginning.” Sporty style is evolving from subtle touches to full-throttle, uniform-adjacent looks. Lyst reports a 197% increase in searches for Ralph Lauren polo shirts, highlighting the trend’s momentum.
Shop the Trend
COS
Relaxed Striped Long-Sleeved Polo Shirt
MOTHER
The Personal Best Heel Pants
13. An Unnecessary Layer
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Taking inspiration from the late ’90s and early ’00s, layering dresses or skirts over trousers is making a comeback for spring/summer 2025. This Y2K trend is being revived with sophisticated and fresh interpretations.
(Image credit: Nanushka / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Rhys-Evans comments, “The rise of the skirts-over-trousers trend is rather overdue in my mind… It’s been threatening to make a comeback with the Y2K mania… but only now are we seeing sophisticated iterations that feel fresh and new for 2025.” Luxury fabrics and silhouettes are transforming this trend into something fabulous and contemporary.
Shop the Trend
ZARA
Asymmetric Lace Skirt
CHLOÉ
Grain De Poudre Wool Flared Pants
14. Flapper Girls
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Flapper girl style from the 1920s is returning for spring/summer 2025, a century after its initial popularity. Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Erdem, and Emporio Armani are among the designers embracing this trend.
Dr Mair suggests, “Potentially the resurgence of flapper-inspired fashion could reflect a collective yearning for fun and freedom… Rooted in the 1920s, a time of social change and liberation, the flapper aesthetic represents breaking boundaries, seeking new forms of self-expression and liberation from traditional norms.” This trend taps into a romanticized past era of social change and freedom.
(Image credit: Elie Saab / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Alexander notes, “It feels particularly fitting for the flapper style to return for spring/summer 2025… A century on, the dress has been revived by designers for the same reason that it was first created, the idea of freedom.” The flapper dress symbolizes freedom and liberation, fitting for current times where joy and liberation are highly valued.
Shop the Trend
CLIO PEPPIATT
Charm Fringed Embellished Stretch-Mesh Mini Dress
ASOS Curve
Curve Floral Embellished Halter Maxi Dress With Fringe Hem
15. Outer Shells
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Outer shell jackets, like windbreakers and track jackets, are trending for spring/summer 2025. This practical trend is perfect for unpredictable weather, offering both style and functionality.
(Image credit: Eudon Choi / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Farrell jokes, “If British ‘summers’ make you think of wet weekends in a coastal town with only a battered pac-a-mac for protection, we may have had the same ’90s childhood… fashion always manages to repurpose dated trends into something nostalgic.” ’90s shell suits and windbreakers are being stylishly upgraded for modern wear. Lyst reports a 36% increase in searches for “windbreaker jackets,” showing growing interest.
Shop the Trend
Miu Miu
Technical Canvas Jacket
Free People
Rain and Shine Jacket
16. Join the Anti Club
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The biggest trend for spring/summer 2025 might be anti-trend itself. An “Anti Club” is forming, challenging refined trends and embracing personality pieces, going against the grain, and questioning the very concept of trends.
Dr Mair explains, “Like Bags of Personality, this ‘trend’ signals a shift away from refined, minimalist fashion… By embracing styles that stand out, people are expressing a need for individualism and self-expression.” This trend reflects a desire to break free from societal expectations and redefine personal aesthetics.
(Image credit: Givenchy)
Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons cited “the algorithm” as inspiration for Prada’s S/S 25 collection, showcasing deliberately eclectic outfits. Barron notes the importance of “statement hats, gloves, and fashion jewellery” in creating runway looks, aligning with Net-a-Porter’s focus on fashion and individuality. Wheatland-Clinch observes a shift towards mixed textures, clashing colors, and bold prints, moving away from “quiet luxury” and “clean-girl” aesthetics, embracing a more disruptive and fun approach to style.
Shop the Trend
ACNE STUDIOS
Off-The-Shoulder Ruched Printed Stretch-Mesh Mini Dress
ADIDAS ORIGINALS
- Wales Bonner Samba Millennium Paneled Croc-Effect and Metallic Leather Sneakers
17. Fantastic Fringe
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Fringe is a key texture trend for spring/summer 2025, adding movement and life to collections. Designers are using fringe in more dramatic and voluminous ways, moving beyond subtle accents.
(Image credit: Gabriela Hearst / Launchmetrics Spotlight)
Munro observes, “No longer the reserve of retro suede jackets and ‘00s era bags, full-on-fringe was the more-is-more wild card… Indulging lovers of drama and excess, these voluminous designs evoke bohemian energy and a ‘70s magnetism.” Coupled with vibrant colors and dynamic movement, fringe is playful and effervescent, perfectly embodying spring style.
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& Other Stories
Fringed Mini Shift Dress
ALAÏA
Tiered Fringed Chenille Mini Skirt
