fashion

'The 2025 fashion predictions are in and I have feedback on one very specific trend.'

It's that time when we start thinking about what the year ahead might bring. What will happen at work? What will my relationship status be? And one of my favourite things to think about: what will we be wearing all year?

The 2025 fashion predictions have been rolling in for the past month, and I've been keenly observing the fashionista experts and taking notes.

Turns out there is one particular trend for which I have feedback. And apparently, we have Isabel Marant and Chloé to thank for it.

Watch: Annaliese (me) trying to dress like a Gen Z. Post continues after video.


Video via Mamamia.

Ultra-girly takes a front seat.

When it comes to shirts, it's all about being "demure" (ew). Think "prairie" high necklines, oversized Peter Pan collars, big bow-ties, ruffles, and frilly frou-frou for days.

It's giving Little House On The Prairie.

women wearing big collared shirts Image: Etsy/ASOS

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It reminds me of the '80s, when these collars were the go-to largely for corporate businesswomen or maternity frocks. Princess Diana was a major fan, and arguably the founder of the prairie neckline (for a modern age, anyway). I'm sure I've seen photos of my mum wearing one while pregnant with me.

Princess Diana in a peter pan collar outfit Image: Getty

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Other than taking issue with describing an aspirational trend as 'demure' (are we really now taking fashion inspo from ballerina farm, and is the aim to be tradwives? Please…), this does not and will not work if you are a larger-breasted woman. You end up looking like a wall of flowy collared material. It's not flattering.

And look, I realise fashion trends are a choice. You can either jump on the bandwagon, or steer clear. But I stand by my refusal to join this one.

Anyway, it's not all bad news for this year — 2025 is shaping up to be a blend of bold statements and refined aesthetics.

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Watch: @Iamsaraouardi on 'demure' fashion trends. Post continues below.


Video: TikTik @Iamsaraouardi

Sage is for more than just cleansing bad vibes.

Last year, butter yellow was everywhere and this year, apparently, we will all be wearing sage green.

Petal & Pup Sylvie Strapless Sage Midi Dress, $161.95.

woman wearing sage green strapless dressImage: Petal and Pup

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The ethereal-romantic-goddess era is here.

Tulle and sheer fabrics are set to dominate, creating romantic and ethereal looks.

I am here for this and have kept a tulle skirt from the noughties waiting for this exact moment. It's so Carrie Bradshaw in Paris.

CHIC WISH Love Me More Layered Tulle Skirt, $126.24.

woman wearing tulle layered skirtImage: CHIC WISH

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Pants are getting narrower

Straight leg and tapered pants are on the rise anddd… I feel like I only just got on board with wide-leg pants?? What is next for 2026? Skinny jeans again?

Calvin Klein Tapered Ankle Pants, $299.

woman wearing tapered black pantsImage: The Iconic

Skin is in.

Hot pants, handkerchief skirts, and strapless tent dresses are making a strong comeback. While I'm not here for these as much, apparently there is a boho-chic revival coming, and I am all about it.

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SNDYS Asta Handkerchief Skirt, $109.

woman wearing a handkerchief skirtImage: The Iconic

There's a focus on fabrics.

The fabric landscape for this year is gearing up to be a blend of luxury, sustainability and innovation.

Linen isn't going anywhere (thank god). It's got sustainability street cred and timeless elegance. But we're set to see brown suede take over from traditional leather in 2025.

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Vero Moda faux suede mini skirt, $67.

woman wearing suede skirtImage: ASOS

Listen to 'Exactly What You'll Be Wearing In 2025' on Nothing To Wear. Post continues below.

Thoughts and prayers for crossbody bags.

Millennials take note, and please don't shoot the messenger. Crossbody bags are well and truly done.

From now on, we want to show off our 'fits, and carrying shoulder bags is exactly how we do it. Our shoulders will adjust.

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Louenhide Maddie Shoulder Bag, $89.95.

woman wearing a shoulder bag Image: The Iconic

What do you hate or rate? And what will you be wearing this year? Let us know in the comments below!

Feature Image: Etsy @yakalik /Etsy @Petiteelliee

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