Our Style Experts Break Down The Classic Trends That Staged Comebacks In 2025

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At least three things are certain in life: death, taxes, and fashion cycles. There may be some trends that we hope will never see the light of day again, but history has taught us that most fads do come back in some form, sooner or later. Just look at ghoul girl trend that acted as a softer goth revival a couple of years ago. No fad is ever truly dead, and in 2025, there were several well-known styles rearing their heads once again. 

"[It's] all about intentional dressing — less impulse, more investment," said Chicago-based fashion stylist Tali Kogan that year. "People are building capsule wardrobes that actually work for their lives, mixing timeless classics with statement pieces." In an exclusive conversation with Glam, Kogan revealed that these "timeless classics" include well-known prints like polka dots, full-length denim (sorry, fans of the crop), and power dressing. "It's the perfect mix of masculine and femininity, confidence and ease, making sure every outfit aligned with your intention, serves a purpose and a queen energy," she added.

Meanwhile, style coach Tami Harrigan told Glam that fashionistas would be on the lookout for bold styling and animal prints, as we're all "about infusing your own personality into not only the latest trends, but taking your personal style to the next level." While new trends are coming in and old styles are resurfacing, both experts agree that 2025 was all about finding pieces that work for you and help you to find your inner confidence. "While 2024 was all about individuality, [it became] about refining that," Kogan adds, "curating a closet with pieces that make you feel like your highest version of yourself every day." Here's what we can learn from the 2025 trends.

The denim trends meant more is more — fabric, that is. Tali Kogan shared exclusively with Glam that full-length jeans with a wide leg and relaxed feel were back. "This is the chic, effortless, and elevated version of the oversized denim trend we've been seeing," she said, and it's "[p]erfect for effortlessly looking put-together." When it comes to styling wide-leg jeans, you can follow a simple celeb-loved formula: Balance out the excess material with a fitted crop top, or elevate the look altogether with denim on denim. Adding some color to the mix also doesn't hurt to make your basic wide-leg jeans trendier.

Tami Harrigan seconded the idea of a wider hem, revealing that it doesn't stop there: Flare jeans are back, too. "This classic silhouette flatters various body types and is very versatile," she observes. "It can be worn casual or dressy. They work well with heels, flats, or sneakers depending on your outfit and mood." The fact that they suit most people is just one of the aesthetic reasons to add flared jeans to your wardrobe. Flare jeans can also fit around any aesthetic, whether you're going for a retro look or Westerncore, the trendy reimagining of cowgirl-inspired fashion.

After a few years of quiet luxury and chic minimalism calling the shots, we went toward more fun and color. We said goodbye to monochrome palettes and hello to classic prints, namely polka dots and stripes. "These classic prints are popping up everywhere, and I'm here for it," said Tali Kogan. "Mixing prints is a power move ... it's all about playing with patterns in a way that feels fresh, bold and still totally wearable." Jennifer Lawrence's polka-dot dress at the 2024 Oscars was the start of a huge style trend, and the wave continued to rise. You can make this timeless print modern by going for unexpected color combinations or wearing polka dots on unexpected silhouettes, whether they're dresses or matching sets. 

Combining stripes and polka dots is one way to stay on top of this movement, but don't be afraid to introduce some animal prints, as Tami Harrigan confirmed that leopard and snakeskin came back with a vengeance. "They are also bringing along some additional prints like cow hide and cheetah," she told Glam exclusively. "Animal prints can effortlessly elevate your outfit. Whether you add it to your outfit with a top, pants, handbag, heels, or wear it from head to toe, you'll turn heads with this trend." We first had an inkling of this craze back in 2024, when the "mob wife aesthetic" took over TikTok's "clean girl" look. Just remember that animal print is all about the attitude you wear it with — it makes a statement, so don't be afraid to show it off.

The '90s minimalism look may have made a comeback, but now that we were firmly in the middle of the decade, we harnessed a much bigger energy. It was all about daring experimentation and wearing pieces that you know are going to start a conversation, whether they're seemingly revolutionary or fresh takes on old favorites. "What I feel fashion is doing ... on a bigger scale is showcasing bold expression," Tami Harrigan said in our exclusive chat. "It's about not playing it safe and being bold in expressing your unique style, however that looks for each individual."

Tali Kogan also believes that it was time to be bold, noting that this particularly applied to jewelry trends. "Minimalist jewelry had its moment," she shared with Glam. "Bold pearls and statement pieces are taking over."

The beauty of statement-making jewelry is that you don't need a fancy event or a formal outfit to rock it; Kogan recommended pairing your boldest pieces with basic outfits to "activate queen energy." Big and bold jewelry was also one of 2023's biggest trends — the first indication that we were leaving behind the era of dainty bracelets and barely there studs. Remember, too, that bold jewelry doesn't necessarily mean expensive pieces. The Vuleto Chunky Hoop Earrings could easily be the star of your outfit, for example, as can the Mytys 2 Tone Intertwined Crossover Statement Ring. 

Those of us who grew up in the 2000s may have fond memories of boho fashion as it was in the noughties: chunky studded belts, oversized bags paired with patterned minidresses, and knee-high boots worn with flowing skirts. Sienna Miller, Nicole Richie, and other it-girls of the era would be pleased to know that the trend was back, but it looked a little different. This time, we traded in layers and festival accessories for a more refined aesthetic as this "version is chic and effortless — think flowy maxi dresses, crochet details, peasant tops and rich earth tones, but styled in a way that feels polished," Tali Kogan explained exclusively to Glam. "It's giving modern goddess energy, perfect for the woman who wants to channel her free-spirited side while still looking put together." 

To rock the 2000s boho style in a modern way, Kogan recommended balancing the elements of your outfit. For instance, if you're wearing a flowy dress, reign in that silhouette with something structured and masculine, like a blazer.

One of the staples of the boho look is a laid-back feel, and that hasn't changed. Tami Harrigan noted that you can be creative with your boho ensemble as long as it doesn't feel like you're trying too hard, telling us, "This trend blends ladylike features like ruffles and flowy materials, providing a relaxed, effortless look."

Feminine vibes were taking over fashion in 2025. Sabrina Carpenter's style transformation showed us that flirty glamour is the new status quo, and Tali Kogan confirmed that ladylike dressing was one of the year's dominating aesthetics. "Feminine silhouettes, cinched waists and those classic midi dresses ...," she observed. "There's something about bringing back that timeless elegance — lace, silk, and soft, flowy fabrics that make you feel like the main character in your own story." Femininity means something different to everyone, so there's so much room to experiment with this trend. Remember, it's is about making revolving trends work for your personal style, whether that's traditional soft silhouettes or something cheekier. 

The colors that we immediately think of when it comes to ladylike fashion are pinks, purples, and pastels, but Tami Harrigan shared exclusively with Glam that the trending palette of the year doesn't quite fit that concept. "The classic brown hue is making its way back," she said. "This neutral color is very complementary with other neutrals (camel, tan, and olive) and bold colors (teal, pink, blue). It's a great option when you want a break from wearing black, navy, or gray." As you explore what feminine fashion means to you, you might find that earthier hues worn with feminine silhouettes strike the perfect balance.

Power dressing and ladylike fashion may seem like polar opposites, but again, it's all about how you interpret femininity. The cornerstone for both, Tali Kogan explained, is a radiant inner confidence. "Blazers, structured suits, and sharp tailoring are back in full force," she told Glam. "Think '80s and '90s power dressing, but with a fresh, modern twist." A contemporary take on power dressing may involve marrying officewear with edgier pieces, including streetwear and sportswear. If you're looking for tips to help you bring the corporate aesthetic into your outfits, think of staples like white button-downs and thin, leather belts — for example, the WHIPPY Women Skinny Leather Belt — and test them out with your more laid-back items. 

Speaking of which, Tami Harrigan notes that sportswear played a role in casual and work ensembles. "We're seeing the trend of elevated casual looks," she shared exclusively with Glam. "Wearing comfortable clothes that are appropriate for the weekends but also for work is still a priority for many and a smart fashion choice." Fortunately, elevating athleisure couldn't be easier (though it may involve some pumps). Harrigan suggested upgrading your sporty clothes by pairing specific pieces with dressier garments and accessories — including a good pair of heels like the Lifestride Women's Suki Pump — in order to find the right harmony.