Drawing from extensive data and the knowledge acquired from its in-house fashion experts, Zalando has predicted the five core trends set to rule in 2025
Zalando kicked off 2025 with something it has never done before: predicting the fashion trends set to dominate this year. Building on its ‘2024 Trend Rewind’ – an interactive exploration of the trends that shaped last year – the online fashion and lifestyle destination has levelled up its forecasting. Now, the company has leveraged data acquired from its AI-powered ‘Trend Spotter’, which tracks emerging trends, combining it with its in-house experts – who scoured runway trends and conducted cultural research – to serve up a prediction of what will be all the rage in fashion in the year ahead.
The initiative uncovered five core emerging trends: ‘Victorian Decorum’, ‘Power Dressing’, ‘Playful Proportions’, ‘Sheer Confidence’ and ‘Modern Heritage’, which, according to Zalando, are “influenced by wider cultural trends including the need for escapism and stability”.
Up first is ‘Victorian Decorum’, which, as the name suggests, draws inspiration from bygone eras, particularly the 19th century. Think corsetry, hourglass silhouettes, plunging necklines, sweeping sleeves, bustles and bows, all elevated with statement accessories.
‘Power Dressing’ is a concept many are familiar with, and in 2025, Zalando predicts we’ll be donning looks that mean business. Sharp tailoring will remain a staple (continuing its strong popularity from last year), with 1980s-esque power suits in monochromatic shades paired with loafers or sleek heels taking front and centre. Meanwhile, ‘Playful Proportions’ takes a less conventional approach. Sculptural, eye-catching pieces are mixed and matched to create intriguing silhouettes that steal the spotlight. Bubble skirts, bomber jackets, bold shoulders, rounded sleeves or dropped waists are all fair game – there are no rules here.
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Patterned oversized down jacket. Stamm. Knitted cotton cardigan. Baum und Pferdgarten. Metal chain beanie, Brass and acrylic link earrings, Brass and acrylic chain necklace. All Rabanne. Photo: Olof Grind
Those entering 2025 with ‘Sheer Confidence’ will find themselves gravitating towards garments that, as Zalando puts it, boast “minimal fabric, maximal impact”. Fusing feminine, romantic energy with an edgy twist, this trend is all about form-flaunting and unapologetic style, celebrating sensuality and body positivity. Lace, lingerie-inspired pieces, cropped styles, second-skin fits and transparent fabrics are all we’ll be reaching for.
Last but certainly not least is ‘Modern Heritage’. “Boarding school chic is back,” Zalando declares. Consider this trend the preppier, lighter sibling to last year’s ‘dark academia’, which made rounds online with its moody collegiate aesthetic. Honing in on quiet luxury, the ‘Modern Heritage’ highlights cardigans, crisp Oxford shirts, cricket jumpers, knitted vests, smart trousers and luxe varsity jackets, all styled sensibly to create a polished, Chuck Bass-approved look. The brands to covet? Ralph Lauren, Gant, Burberry, Lacoste and Tommy Hilfiger.