What a year it has been for fashion. From designers swapping roles like a high-stakes game of musical chairs to beloved classics making triumphant comebacks, 2025 was a mix of surprises and familiar pleasures. With red carpet moments and fashion campaigns that had everyone talking, the industry was alive with energy and imagination. Here are six moments that defined the fashion calendar.
Power Moves
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This year saw major shifts at the creative helm, and the impact was felt immediately across leading fashion houses. Some changes paid off spectacularly. Matthieu Blazy went cosmic for his first Chanel show. Jonathan Anderson brought playful energy to Dior. Pierpaolo Piccioli hit refresh at Balenciaga. Demna dialled up the drama at Gucci, and Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez delivered Loewe in full technicolour. Meanwhile, Louis Trotter—the season’s only female creative director debut—absolutely owned Bottega Veneta. Up next, we can’t wait to see Maria Grazia Chiuri at Fendi and Grace Wales Bonner at Hermès.
It Bags Are Back
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Nostalgia was everywhere this year. Louis Vuitton kicked off the moment by reuniting with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their 2003 collaboration, revisiting the vibrant monogram Multicolour and other fan-favourite prints. Other houses embraced their heritage: Chloé revived the cult Paddington bag, Celine launched the Luggage bag with nods to the iconic Phantom era, and Fendi refreshed the Spy bag with a modern twist. Nostalgia, it seems, is a strategy that rarely fails.
The Met Gala
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Once again, the Met Gala reminded us that fashion is as much about storytelling as it is about spectacle. This year’s theme, ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,’ had co-chairs Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams serving looks as sharp as their reputations. The A-listers didn’t disappoint either—Rihanna, Teyana Taylor, Blackpink’s Jennie, and Bad Bunny all brought their A-game.
The Passing of Giorgio Armani
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The industry paused in September with the passing of Giorgio Armani at 91 in Milan, just weeks before the 50th anniversary of his brand and two decades of Armani Privé. More than a designer, Armani was a pioneer of contemporary style, influencing how we dress, present ourselves, and embody identity. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.
The Ad Everyone’s Talking About
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Who knew a single ad could spark so much conversation? Last summer, American Eagle found itself in hot water, with Sydney Sweeney at the centre of accusations of eugenics and racism. The ‘Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans’ campaign kept tongues wagging, with the controversy showing no signs of cooling.
Not one to shy away from risk, competitor GAP seized the moment, stepping into the spotlight with rising girl group Katseye. The ‘Better in Denim’ campaign sees the girls breathe new life into Kelis’ 2003 hit Milkshake through infectious choreography, celebrating both individuality and diversity in GAP denim. Love it or loathe it, the world is watching—and that’s exactly the point.
The East-West Effect
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The East-West bag has taken over wardrobes this year. Its elongated, horizontal silhouette and effortless chic make it the accessory everyone is reaching for. Whether paired with structured tailoring or relaxed separates, it adds an elevated edge to any look. Alaïa, Prada, Ferragamo, and Coach have each turned the East-West bag into a must-have statement piece.
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