I Didn’t Think These 5 Controversial Trends Would Make It, But They’re Still Going Strong

In recent years, the overall fashion mood has been relatively minimalist, with designers embracing the idea of a capsule wardrobe and focusing on elevated basics. Think cashmere wrap coats, straight-leg denim, ballet flats, and crewneck sweaters. It’s an elevated but simple everyday uniform that is all about looking polished and put together. It’s a crowd-pleasing aesthetic that won’t divide opinion. However, not all of us are cut out for minimalism.

If you tend to lean toward off-beat styling choices that will raise eyebrows at family functions, then below we chart five controversial trends that are still going strong. These aren’t going to appeal to everyone in your life, but that is exactly the point. Unsurprisingly, there are several ’00s comebacks on this list, including skirts worn over denim and studded accessories—however, they have been interpreted through a modern lens, giving these throwbacks a new lease on life. Plus, 2025 is all about embracing a highly individual anti-algorithm fashion, as designers like Prada celebrated inventive styling.