Renowned for its array of expressive, creative and rule-breaking designs, London Fashion Week SS25 did not disappoint. In a shaky retail environment (we’re still mourning the loss of Matches), many established British brands are struggling to cut through, creating the perfect space for a new wave of recent graduates and young talent to launch themselves onto the global fashion stage. A hotbed of new talent, the SS25 shows were ripe with creativity thanks to fashion incubators Fashion East, who welcomed a host of new designers onto the London Fashion Week scene.
A melting pot of imagination, London Fashion Week draws from a diverse mix of brands to create an unrivalled environment for new ideas and inverting the traditional; from London legends Burberry, J.W.Anderson and Simone Rocha to new fashion darlings Charles Jeffrey Loverboy, Ahluwalia and Chet Lo, the creativity was flowing, and new trends were in abundance.
It’s been tough, but we’ve whittled it down to the top six SS25 trends which we expect to see not only taking over the high street come Spring, but to manifest into other areas of design from interiors to tech.
Mod Mavens
Inspired by the recent mod revival, thanks to the return of Oasis and the upcoming reimagining of Quadrophenia at Sadlers Wells in 2025, ‘60s-esque mini dresses popped up on runways across the capital. From classic short sleeve shifts, to ruffles and baby doll styles, one thing was for sure- the shorter the better.
Image Credits: Richard Quinn, Emilia Wickstead, J.W.Anderson, 16Arlington
Crystal Maze
More is more when it comes to bling for SS25, creating a decadent delight for night or day. Crystals adorned everything from coats to slip dresses, mixing with metallic accessories, sequin details and shimmery fabrics for unapologetically ornate opulence.
Image Credits: Huishan Zhang, Richard Quinn, Burberry, Erdem
Artful Draping
Fabrics were made to move like liquid, as models walked down the runway looking like works of art. Chiffon and lightweight jerseys were ruched and draped into ethereal silhouettes which floated down the catwalk. The sexy, universally-flattering technique is a fashion fan favourite.
Image Credits: KNWLS, Bora Aksu, Di Petsa, TOVE
Trenches with a twist
The British classic got a shake up for SS25. Trench coats have been a huge trend for 2024, which is clearly here to stay come next year. Long or short, fitted or loose, designers added bows, puff sleeves, peplums and exaggerated strap details to give the iconic design a Spring refresh.
Image Credits: SS Daley, KNWLS, Toga, Burberry
Fringe Benefits
An undeniable trend for SS25, fringing and tassels of all shapes and sizes graced the recent London catwalks. From chunky cord to delicate beading, from feathers to chains, this season saw every iteration, adding texture and movement to a host of looks. Bags with long, statement tassels were another highlight, offering a much easier way to embrace the trend come Spring.
Image Credits: SS Daley, Simone Rocha, Feben, Erdem
It’s Complicated
Never ones to take anything too seriously, some London designers tore up the rule book this season, showing an array of deconstructed styles which highlighted new printing techniques and explorative construction. Frayed hems, bleached denim and unusual silhouettes remind us that it’s all a bit of fun, and that in this city- anything goes!
Image Credits: SOS Skyn (c/o Fashion East), Natasha Zinko, Masha Popova, Charles Jeffrey Loverboy
