The Spring/Summer 2025 season is shaping up to be a dynamic interplay of creativity, innovation and purposeful design, as has been reflected on the global fashion runways.
From Paris to Milan, New York to London, fashion weeks showcased a diverse range of trends that cater to an increasingly discerning and multifaceted consumer base. With the market continually evolving post-pandemic, brands are navigating a dual demand for bold statements that captivate and timeless pieces that endure.
This season’s trends speak directly of such shifting consumer mindsets. Statement-making elements such as voluminous silhouettes, diaphanous sheers and playful fringes dominate the season while adding drama and movement, whilst versatile staples such as tank tops and bralettes underscore a renewed focus on functional, everyday luxury.
As consumers prioritise individuality and authenticity, they are drawn to designs that reflect both their personal identity and the zeitgeist. From power dressing’s commanding presence to playful interpretations of volume and texture, S/S 2025 can be defined as a season of experimentation and refinement. For brands, this serves as an opportunity to innovate while staying rooted in timeless craftsmanship, resonating with a market that values both impact and longevity.
TANK TOPS
For Spring/Summer 2025, tank tops take centre stage as a key wardrobe staple, embodying the simplicity and functionality that define warm-weather dressing. The rise of this unassuming essential highlights a shift in fashion towards celebrating hard-working basics that form the backbone of everyday style. Designers and brands alike are embracing the understated appeal of the little tank top, focusing on quality, fit and timelessness rather than flashy embellishments. It might not be the most eye-catching piece, but it’s one we rely on season after season, especially as the temperatures start to soar. Designers such as Gucci and Cavalli are reinventing the tank top with subtle yet impactful details. Gucci introduces bold trims to elevate the basic silhouette, while Cavalli experiments with intricate knitwork, showcasing how construction can redefine simplicity. Meanwhile, major players such as Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren and Victoria Beckham tap on the minimalist aesthetic, presenting tanks that emphasise fit and fabric quality over decorative elements.
Consumer interest mirrors this runway resurgence. According to Lyst, searches for simple tank tops have seen a significant spike, with demand for Skims tank tops rising by 151 per cent week-on-week. This growing interest underscores the universal appeal of pared-down staples that prioritise versatility and timelessness. Tank tops can be seamlessly integrated into S/S ’25 offerings by prioritising clean lines, premium fabrics and thoughtful construction. Focus on refined details such as subtle ribbing, tailored seams or unique trims to elevate this essential piece. Styling possibilities are endless, from pairing tanks with tailored trousers and structured blazers for a polished look to layering them with sheer or oversized pieces for an edgy, modern take.
BRALETTES AS OUTERWEAR
The ‘underwear-as-outerwear trend’ continues to reign as a defining theme for Spring/Summer 2025, with the recently concluded international runway showcases reaffirming its status as a sartorial staple. Bralettes, bandeaus and lingerie-inspired pieces dominated the runways, exhibiting the versatility and timeless appeal of intimatewear reimagined for public display.
At Courrèges, bold black and white bandeaus introduced a sleek, strapless bra theme, while Chloé explored a softer, vintage-inspired direction. Alessandro Michele embraced antique influences, presenting a line of ethereal bras, robes and wispy undergarments evocative of a bygone era at Valentino, while Hermès elevated the trend further, with sensual barely-there crop tops paired with sleek slips reinforcing the chic appeal of lingerie-inspired fashion. Balenciaga, on the other hand, took the concept to its boldest form, delivering an ultra-sexy, lingerie-driven collection. To ace this trend, designers and brands can embrace a wide spectrum of interpretations, from vintage-inspired lace and soft pastels to bold, structured bandeaus in contemporary cuts. Pairing these pieces with tailored separates, fluid skirts or matching lingerie-style co-ords can offer versatility and broaden their appeal for consumers. Layering opportunities also abound – think sheer overlays, lightweight jackets or flowing robes that enhance the aesthetic without negating its sensual impact.
FRINGE WITH BENEFITS
Fringes have danced their way into S/S ‘25, transforming understated silhouettes into dynamic, joyful creations. This tactile trend injects movement, texture and drama in equal measure. From Proenza Schouler’s flowing dresses and Erdem’s elegant ensembles to Dior’s waist-defining fringe belts and 16Arlington’s edgy tops and jackets, designers and brands showcased the versatility of fringes. The appeal of fringe lies in its ability to inject energy into even the simplest of outfits. Whether swaying on the hem of dresses or adorning a bold accessory, fringes add an undeniable sense of playfulness and volume. This season’s approach elevates fringe beyond the bohemian aesthetic, integrating it into contemporary and minimalist designs, making it a key detail for modern wardrobes.
To capture the spirit of S/S 2025, brands should explore fringe across categories, from casualwear to evening attire. For a bold statement, consider fringe overlays on dresses and jackets, emphasising fluidity and movement. Accessories are another entry point – belts with cascading fringe or bags with fringe detailing can add depth to collections without overwhelming the overall aesthetic. Colour choices range from classic neutrals, which highlight fringe as a textural element, to bold, bright hues that make it a focal point.
POWER DRESSING FT. THE ’80s REVIVAL
The resurgence of ’80s-inspired power dressing is setting the tone for the upcoming season while redefining strength and sophistication via bold tailoring and silhouettes. Milan Fashion Week sparked the conversation, but it was in Paris where the revival reached its crescendo. From Rabanne’s structural jackets to Stella McCartney’s big-shouldered suiting (including an embellished blazer daringly paired minus a shirt), this season places blazers and tailored ensembles at the forefront of sartorial power. Designers known for softer aesthetics, such as Erdem and Simone Rocha, embraced the sharp lines of Savile Row tailoring, demonstrating the adaptability of masculine-inspired silhouettes within traditionally feminine silhouettes. Anthony Vaccarello’s collection for Saint Laurent epitomised this movement with his homage to the iconic Yves Saint Laurent wardrobe. Double-breasted blazers with exaggerated shoulders and slouchy slacks channeled a confident elegance, bridging the legacy of Le Smoking with contemporary sensibilities.
In order to capitalise on this trend, the focus should be on precision tailoring and impactful styling. Structured blazers with defined shoulders, double-breasted cuts and oversized fits offer versatile options for incorporating power dressing into seasonal collections. These pair excellently with high-waisted trousers, slouchy slacks or tailored shorts. Experimentation with fabric textures such as wool crepe, lightweight tweeds or even summer-weight leather can add dimension while keeping the ensembles seasonally appropriate.
SHEER JOY
The reign of sheer fabrics continues to dominate the fashion scene for Spring/Summer 2025, evolving into a refined symbol of sensuality and sophistication. Following their dominance in previous seasons, transparency remains a key trend, with designers pushing the boundaries further this year. Diaphanous silks, airy chiffons and lightweight gossamers reigned supreme on international runways, but for S/S ’25, they receive a sophisticated upgrade with bolder translucency and elevated silhouettes.
Leading players like Stella McCartney, Chanel and Victoria Beckham celebrated sheerness with flowing gowns, ethereal skirts and modern slip dresses, creating a balance between bold sensuality and effortless elegance. Hermès, in particular, redefined its aesthetic by highlighting transparency as a key feature, presenting it as a nuanced expression of understated allure.
Designers and brands looking to integrate this trend into their collections can explore fabrics such as silk organza, tulle and technical mesh, paired with structured silhouettes to create a harmonious blend of softness and strength. Strategic layering of transparent materials with opaque elements or intricate detailing such as embroidery and lace appliqués can add dimension while maintaining the ethereal effect. Beyond traditional applications in gowns and dresses, the versatility of sheer enables it to extend into tops, outerwear and tailored pieces, offering new opportunities for creative prowess.
PUFF PUFF AWAY
Volume takes on a whimsical new form in Spring/Summer 2025, departing from last season’s bold ’80s-inspired peplums and puffball silhouettes. This year’s interpretation, as though descending from the heaven, finds inspiration in soft, ethereal shapes reminiscent of floating clouds and parachutes. From dramatic drapery to billowing silhouettes, the trend strikes a perfect balance between maximalist fantasy and airy sophistication.
A larger-than-life evolution of the bubble hem trend that dominated earlier this year will translate into parachute and power-pouffe details over muted, ice-cream-toned skirts with enveloping trains, puffed-up shoulders and exaggerated draping on maxi and mini dresses.
Spotted at Chloé, Khaite and Stella McCartney, in muted, pastel tones embracing dramatic puffed shoulders, voluminous hems and cascading layers, the trend sends a clear, resounding memo: go big or go home.
In order to embrace this trend, designers and brands can experiment with fabrics that align well with structure and movement such as organza, tulle or lightweight cotton blends. Innovative draping techniques, oversized ruffles and exaggerated gathers will serve well to create statement pieces.
