With the ever changing fashion trends, it can be hard for some people to stay up to date with what is considered fashionable. Since the rise of social media, fashion trends are recycled faster than ever. And while it is always best to stray from fast fashion and instead practice individuality, it’s still fun to be ahead, or simply just a part of the current trends.
The early 2020s were categorized by styles of personal expression and identity. As we move into the mid 2020s, however, the desired “look” for many has become something more uniform or traditionally conservative. That is not the only change in fashion and pop culture as of 2025. Undoubtedly, a culture shift is taking place. With the 2000s trends coming back in full swing in the form of low rise jeans, along with “Mcbling” and similar subcultures becoming trendy again, y2k culture is reccessing in its own new and unprecedented ways.
How are trends calculated?
Understanding and predicting fashion cycles is hard for many, yet it ultimately comes down to a science. Understanding previous sales, figures, and industry reports can help come to an understanding of the direct relationship that the political and economic atmosphere has on womens fashion and body trends. After analyzing historical data, the next step would be identifying what the atmosphere is today, and applying said patterns.
Many brands also have their own way of predicting trending fashion by looking at their website traffic over time, specifically at the increases in clicks on individual items. This information is available for various websites such as amazon, for example.
What are the trends?
Using the formulas listed above along with personal observation, we were able to come to a list of our top five expected trends for this summer.
1. Polka Dots
Due to the influx in young women striving to be seen as, “old money”, or minimalistic while still maintaining a captivating aura. Therefore, polka dots are likely to be everywhere this summer. They are seen as a staple of the Y2K era which seamlessly fits into the demand for a vintage and yet revamped clothing industry.
2. Fold Over Shorts
One of the likely trends for summer 2025 is fold over shorts. Fold over shorts are a type of shorts that feature a waistband designed to be folded over. This fold over waistband can be worn at different heights, offering flexibility in how high or low the shorts are worn, therefore flattering the majority of consumers. Oftentimes, the part of the shorts that is folded over features some sort of glittery or colorful pattern adding personality as well of comfort. As of recently, they are gaining in popularity largely due to the resurgence of Pink, Victoria Secret, who during the early 2000’s was notorious for their various fold over yoga pants/shorts.
3. (Short) Milk Maid Dresses
A milkmaid dress is a type of sundress characterized by its structured, often corset-inspired bodice, a scoop or square neckline, and a flowing A-line skirt. It has become popularized among teens and young women in the past year due to its flattering cut and style along with its feminine charm. Typically they feature fun floral patterns and can be worn in a variety of settings.
4. Denim Dresses (Structured or Strapless)
Denim has been making a comeback largley in the past year but they are more relevant than ever to the “countryfication” of modern america, which as a collective seems to be yearning for a simpler, quiter life. Denim dresses are reminiscent of a western america with elements of the modernized sleek fashion weve come to adapt to today. They can be dressed up in a minimalist style, or dressed down with a beige pair of sandals or boots. Overall Denim dresses seem to be popping up more and more and will certainly become a staple of summer.
5. Tube Tops & Bandeaus
Minimal and sleek, these tops are making a huge comeback. The strapless look pairs well with anything high-waisted and gives serious early-2000s energy, so it’s no wonder they’re in everyones closet waiting for the warmer weather.
Honorable Mention: Waist Chains
Waist chains, also known as belly chains or waist beads is a type of a decorative accessory to highlight the wearer’s waistline and add a touch of elegance or deminsion to an outfit. They have cultural signifcance from a variety of cultures, however they strongly originate from Indian culture. They are said to increase good luck along with feminitity. Despite being around for centuties, they have recently become fashionable due to the recent emphasis on bodily acceptance and love. Theyre also favored by many due to the current obbsesion many have with beach/the bohiemian aesthetic, which is perfectly emulated by waist chains being they are typically adorned with pearls or even on occasion, shells..