What’s Trending in 2025 Fashion? Not Minimal or Comfortable, That’s for Sure – Gifts & Decorative Accessories

Baggie sweatpants; oversized hoodies; messy, untamed buns: These were the fashion staples of the COVID era. The pandemic demolished personal style and healthy routines for a lot of American women. Driven by isolation, anxiety and depression, not to mention weight gain, or what some call “the COVID 19,” women’s fashion choices and care for their personal appearance started to spiral in 2020 and continued to take a back seat for a couple of years, especially with many working from home. But now, women are taking back their stylish — and more polished — flair, with a vengeance!

The shift might be attributed to women’s desire to reclaim their identity and “perk themselves up” with more buttoned-up outfits. It could also be because many companies are requiring their employees to return to the office. Whether the reason is a desire for personal expression or a corporate requirement, the world of fashion is yawning back awake.

“As we look ahead to spring/summer 2025, the mood is one of renewal and forward-thinking optimism,” said Morgan Ramage, Andmore fashion and events director. From stylish office apparel to expressive accessories, here’s what’s trending in fashion for 2025.

More Polished Corporate Attire Trending Up

One of the biggest things driving style choices for 2025 is how many companies are requiring employees to return to the office. With a need to meet dress code requirements and the pressure of social interaction, more polished — yet still comfortable — corporate looks are trending for 2025.

Deemed “corporatecore,” the look includes feminine print button-downs, oversized blazers, expressive accessories and overall office looks from the ’90s, as well as “soft suiting,” or more casual suits. An oversized blazer matched with pleated shorts, for example, gives a put-together and powerful look, but in a more casual and less intimidating way. Feminine pieces, like tailored jackets and pencil skirts, will also be trending for 2025, as will long dusters and trench-style jackets.

“We’ve definitely seen the corporatecore trend emerging over the past few seasons, and we’re embracing it in our recent introductions,” said Lisa Wohlhart, executive vice president of Howard’s, Inc. “We have a wide range of blazers, from our new denim blazer to structured styles in bold prints, solids, and even textured boucle fabrics, offering elevated options for those who want a chic yet comfortable work look.”

To accessorize the look, Howard’s hoop earrings collection remains a retailer favorite, according to the company, since its sleek, classic style is perfectly suited (pun intended) to the trend.

Mud Pie has been focusing on the “cool corporate girl look” for a few seasons now.

“We’ve introduced boyfriend blazers over the last two seasons, and now we’ve gravitated more towards matching sets,” said Lauren Brekke, chief product officer of Mud Pie. “We love a matching set because while the pieces are fabulous when worn together, each separate pairs really nicely with basics. This season, we have four matching short sets that would make for great workwear. The shorts are long enough and loose enough to be modest in the workplace while maintaining a flattering shape.”

Feminine Flairs Add Style, Expression

Beyond the office, customers will be looking for fun, colorful and flirty fashions for after-hours errands and get-togethers, weekends around town and vacation destinations, especially for the spring and summer. For these expressive looks, customers will be seeking out hyper-feminine accents, cheerful colors and whimsical silhouettes.

“We’re definitely seeing the feminine flourish trend gaining momentum, and it’s reflected in our spring/summer 2025 collection,” Wohlhart said. “As consumers lean towards more expressive and dressy aesthetics, peplum tops, ruffled sleeves and other ‘fancy’ details are indeed making a comeback as part of this trend.”

This season, Wohlhart says the company has introduced pieces that showcase feminine florals, ruffled sleeves, peasant sleeves, and peplum tie and gathered tops. “These details bring an elegant, maximalist touch to our collection, offering versatile options for consumers who are looking to add a more expressive, dressy flair to their wardrobe that can be dressed up or dressed down.”

Brekke says she is “without a doubt” seeing an increased demand for more feminine styles, especially ruffle accents. “Ruffles are one of the major [accents] in our spring/summer 2025 women’s collection. They are a great way to dress up any piece of apparel while still feeling comfortable and approachable. This season, we’ve done ruffle necklines, sleeves, dresses, hems, and we have even done ‘double ruffles’ on several piece types.”

Sheer fabrics, lace, crochet and embroidered details will continue to trend as fun, flirty and feminine accents, too.
“Crochet detail is coming on strong and in new ways, from fresh takes on pullover tops to incorporating it into sleeve detail as well as on borders,” said Kathy Olson, senior apparel buyer for Coco + Carmen of TGB Brands. “In addition, cutout designs are trending. Special cutouts in tops, dresses and even jeans add a fresh take on classic styles.”

Decorative cutouts and embellishments on jeans is one of the most feminine twists on a fashion classic for 2025.
“Embroidery is here, hot and key in helping to differentiate style,” Olson continued. “Look for embroidery to add unexpected uniqueness to shorts, capris and jeans.”

Ramage also reported seeing these trends being big for 2025. “This season emphasizes a blend of retro styles and modern silhouettes,” she said in Atlanta Apparel’s spring/summer 2025 trend report. “Elongated vests offer a versatile layering piece, while retro-inspired T-shirts bring a touch of nostalgia. Crochet dresses continue to make a statement, adding texture and a handmade feel. Volume maxi dresses are also key, offering both drama and comfort with their flowing designs that move effortlessly from day to night. Additionally, all styles of denim are popular head-to-toe, as are oversized silhouettes and sheer fabrications that provide fresh takes on layering.”

For jewelry, charm necklaces, charm bracelets, chunkier earrings, stacked bracelets, layered necklaces and pearls will remain on trend as ’80s and ’90s fashions remain popular and consumers continue to take a “more is more” approach is accessorizing.

Cheerful, Tranquil, Neutral Hues to be Top 2025 Color Choices

Color continues to be emphasized in fashion for the spring and summer seasons, especially pinks, blues and greens, as well as classic neutrals, which make pairing and layering pieces a breeze.

“For spring/summer 2025, we’re seeing a strong balance between timeless neutrals and trend-forward colors,” Wohlhart said. “Our development prioritizes colors that offer longevity, such as classic whites, grays, neutrals and core darks, which seamlessly carry over from season to season and provide a versatile foundation. This approach then allows us to bring in fresh, seasonal hues that complement these core tones.”

“Transcendent Pink is also part of our palette, capturing everyone’s attention with its vibrant, uplifting quality,” Wohlhart continued. “Additionally, Aquatic Awe, a stunning aqua, brings a refreshing, water-inspired touch.”

Wohlhart added that the company is also introducing Future Dusk, the Color Code and WGSN’s color of the year, which is a sophisticated, moody shade of dark blue with purple undertones that add depth.

Other palettes featured in Howard’s spring and summer collections include one that combines energizing brights with soothing blues, and another palette that centers around natural inspiration, featuring uplifting pinks, mossy greens, fresh floral tones, and grounding neutrals like browns and ivory.

“Altogether, these color choices embody a sense of renewal and connection to nature, allowing customers to express both style and mood,” Wohlhart said. Pink, blue and green are playing a large role in Mud Pie’s spring/summer 2025 collection, too.

“Pink is always a really fun color for us to do for spring,” Brekke said. “It’s flattering on every skin tone, and no matter the shade, it’s instantly playful. Blues are great because they have a lot of range. They work just as well in coastal towns as they do in metropolitan cities. We haven’t typically shown as much green as we have this season, so I’m really excited to see how it’s received.”

Olson says a mix of vibrant, bold shades alongside softer, more organic tones will be trending for the warmer seasons. “Bright, saturated hues like reds and orange have been making a statement, while classic colors we see cyclically in fashion, such as sandy beiges, olive greens and creams, are bringing balance,” she said. “Many of these colors showcase their versatility and ability to evoke a range of emotions — from confidence to passion.”

And confidence and passion are definitely what 2025 fashionistas will be looking to portray as they continue to redefine themselves post-pandemic.

More is More: Hats, Jewelry Make a Statment

Customers have been seeking new ways to express themselves for the last few years after the pandemic and that trend will continue to influence buying decisions in 2025, especially in fashion choices. Apparel that makes a bold statement, like voluminous ruffles, T-shirts with custom, nostalgic or funny phrases, personalized accessories and statement hats are all easy ways for customers to express their personality.

“Using accessories to make personal design statements is a key fashion trend,” Olson said. “Accessorizing with hats continues to be part of a growing trend … with both ranch hats and floppy hats gaining in popularity. Additionally, stackable chunky bracelets, sweet anklets and handbags with bold colors are all being used to help freshen up the look and bring new life into pieces [shoppers] already have in their closet.”

Howard’s newly released Amira greeting card necklace program, featuring artwork by licensed artist Amira Raheem, is all about personalization and making a statement. The program centers on six universal sentiments: Trust, Shine, Love, Blessed, Faith and Strength. Each card includes a dainty paperclip necklace and message plaque engraved with the matching sentiment, allowing customers to create a heartfelt, customized message. Wohlhart says the accessories work great as gifts or self-purchases for shoppers looking to keep an intention.

“Shine — one of my favorites — is ideal for a standout coworker, a recent graduate, or anyone needing a reminder to shine like they always do,” she said. “Each card comes with a matching envelope and protective wrap and is displayed in an eye-catching unit, making it easy to showcase in-store. This collection truly allows customers to express themselves while celebrating and supporting others through gifting.”

Standout prints are another way fashionistas can set themselves apart. “Expect to see both bold and subtle patterns, with influences ranging from nature-inspired motifs to geometric shapes, reinforcing the season’s theme of tranquility and understated elegance,” Ramage said.

Custom prints is something that Mud Pie has honed for many years.

“We are well-known for our prints, and that has always really resonated with our customers,” Brekke said. “We have an in-house artist who creates all of our prints for our fabrics each season, so when our customers are buying a Mud Pie piece, they’re getting something that is truly special and that they can only find from Mud Pie. I think that definitely speaks to our ability to connect with the end-consumer and allow their personalities to shine through.”

Stocking for the Season: Top Spring/Summer Fashions to Bring In-Store

In addition to stocking what’s on trend for spring/summer 2025 apparel, there are also a few classics that will never go out of style and are perfect for the warmer seasons.

Brekke adds that lightweight knit layers, “since they’re so great for transitional weather,” is a smart stocking move, and block prints are still a “massive trend.”

“I’d also recommend that retailers stock coordinating accessories for some of their standout outfits — especially resort wear,” Brekke said. “It makes for a great merchandising moment when you can see a dress, bag, hat and set of earrings displayed all together as a story.”

Olson recommends stocking plenty of packable hats, coverups and items that are easy to layer.

“We have a complete line of packable hats,” she said. “These not only look great, but they are also super easy to travel with. Pack them in your bag without worrying it’s going to ruin their shape. Coverups and ruanas are on the rise, not only for at the beach, but also for walking around the resort or as easy layering pieces when the A/C is set too low. And finally, our Kiara Wraps are a traveler’s best friend. They never wrinkle and are easy to keep close on a plane. They add an extra layer of warmth and elegance to an outfit for the evening.”

For footwear and accessories, Ramage said in her trend report that pointed sandals and penny loafers will be on trend for their sleek, minimalist look, while maximal gladiators and retro runners will bring an element of boldness. Statement pieces, such as bold cuff bracelets, beaded necklaces and minimalist bags, will remain on trend as they “complement a range of looks, from casual chic to refined elegance.”

Waterproof jewelry is another smart stock as more and more customers are looking for no-fuss accessories that look good but can also withstand the elements for all-day wear.

“This trend elevates the jewelry experience with higher-quality, durable metals that withstand daily activities like showering, working out and even swimming, without needing to be removed,” Wohlhart said. “It’s not just popular in coastal areas; it’s ideal for anyone seeking low-maintenance yet stylish pieces for everyday wear.”

Wohlhart said Howard’s recently launched Narelle waterproof jewelry line was created with this in mind, offering a variety of hypoallergenic, tarnish-resistant pieces that combine durability with style. The line includes “trendy yet timeless options,” from hoops and bracelet stacks to earring trios and chains.

“These pieces allow customers to express themselves with worry-free, long-lasting jewelry that fits seamlessly into their active lifestyles,” she said.

All in all, be sure to stock plenty of travel-friendly fabrics, easy-wear accessories, packable hats, lightweight layers, trendy crocheted cover-ups and versatile, but expressive apparel for shoppers looking for vacation attire and casual outfits for the spring and summer. But don’t forget the #girlboss who’ll be returning to the office and looking for chic but approachable corporate attire.

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