Fashion Forward 2025 - 1/12/25

In a society that is constantly hyper-fixated on the next best thing or the newest micro trend, one can’t help but wonder what is to come in a new year of fashion. Colors, prints, styles, and all things dress-related are always going in and out of style, but what will be made to stick in 2025? Will it be loads of denim or more animal prints? One can only guess. I’m inserting my predictions for this year’s fashion trends early, but if every one of my manifestations fails, then all bets are off.

1.     Watches

Looking for an accessory that serves no real purpose since we are all phone-obsessed anyway? Watches are your answer. And I’m not talking Apple. From tiny watch bracelets to chunky diamond faces, to even watch rings, watch accessories have been increasing in popularity. I predict watches will continue to pop off in 2025 due to their timeless nature and ability to match any outfit. Jewelry is a category of accessorizing that can’t be ignored when it comes to completing an outfit. If I go out for the night forgetting my stack of bangles or go-to rings, I feel completely naked even when fully dressed. To up your accessorizing game, invest in a piece from the watch category. Depending on your budget, you could go for a beautiful leather strapped face from Cartier, the serpent-style wrap-around watch from Bulgari, or if you’re budget is more in my ballpark, simply keep an eye out for one-of-a-kind vintage watches at your local flea.

2.     More Prints

As someone who started wearing cheetah print fresh out of the womb, I declare that all animal prints are here to stay in 2025. The quick rise in fixation over cheetah was one of the fastest-growing fashion trends I have ever witnessed. Although, to call cheetah just a “trend” feels disgraceful as someone who has admired countless brands’ takes on the rawr of cheetah like Dolce & Gabana and Roberto Cavalli. Due to all the love that cheetah print received in the past year, I predict that not only is cheetah will be everlasting, but more animal prints will pop up. I wouldn’t mind seeing more tiger stripe patterns or cow-print-inspired pieces. Animal print is always an easy way to elevate a look because of its attention-grabbing characteristics and the illusion it can create that there is added texture even if there isn’t. I mean, who can ignore the girl who walks into the bar wearing cheetah pants or cowhide boots? Certainly not me.

3.     Canadian Tuxedos

Beyonce wasn’t playing when she sang, “Denim on denim on denim on denim,” in her catchy Cowboy Carter feature with Post Malone. And I agree with her that all good things come in threes, I mean fours, including denim. Own a denim vest, a denim top, or a denim purse you don’t know what to pair with? Try more denim. When done well, stacking denim with more denim can look super chic. Denim on denim might not be for everyone, but if you’re willing to give it a whirl, I suggest sticking to similar, if not matching, washes at first for all of the pieces you plan to incorporate. My debut attempt at denim on denim included a good pair of Levi jeans with a denim jacket on top. This look was effortlessly simple in a way that validates Bella Hadid’s attempts at making country attire stylish again. In 2025, remember to remind yourself that a good ole Canadian Tuxedo is nothing to be afraid of.

4.     Maximalism

Give. Me. More. And keep it coming. One of this year’s fashion moments will include maxing out credit cards and closet space. If you think you’ve accessorized an outfit, think again. In 2025, even our keychains will need keychains. Maximalism can mean adding more physical garments or accessories to your ensemble, or it can symbolize playing with more color, more pattern, or more texture. Looking for inspiration? Think Betsey Johnson, Vivienne Westwood, or a Birkin bag the way Jane would style it herself. A maximalist look is not for the weak so if you’re an individual who normally abides by the clean-girl aesthetic I advise starting fashion maximalism in small doses.

5.     Muted Reds

Cherry this, cherry that. It’s time muted reds take the stage, so ditch your maraschino palette for burgundy. Muted reds give a fashion look a warmer tone of elegance, whereas bright reds can be too flashy or even tacky. Need a reference as to what a muted resembles, visit Lana Del Rey’s Lust for Life album cover, then listen to In My Feelings while you’re at it. Darker reds can also be easier to pair with colors you already have in your closet, including the basics: black, white, and espresso brown. Finish out the Winter season with a dark red cardigan. Elevate a black skirt and blouse with lacy merlot tights. As someone whose favorite color is red, I am eager to see how the red family will evolve in the new year.