2025's Defining Looks: A Deep Dive into the Outfit Trends Taking Over UK Streets

Hey gorgeous! Let's talk about that feeling. The one where you open your wardrobe, and even though it's bursting with clothes, you have nothing to wear. We've all been there. But what if you had a personal stylist in your pocket, ready to whip up the perfect outfit from the pieces you already own? That's the magic of our app, What2Wear, but today, I'm here to be your guide through the sartorial landscape of 2025.

The runways have spoken, the street style stars have been snapped, and a new wave of trends is officially upon us. From romantic flourishes to edgy revivals, this year is all about expressing your individuality. So, grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let's break down the most coveted outfit trends of 2025 and how you can make them your own.

1. The New Prep: Checks, Please!

Forget stuffy school uniforms; 2025's take on checks is all about a rebellious yet refined spirit. Tartan, plaid, and gingham are having a major moment, splashed across everything from statement skirts to oversized blazers. London's fashion set has fully embraced this trend, proving its versatility and timeless appeal.

The Vibe: Think a modern-day Cher Horowitz with a touch of London edge. It's preppy, but with a playful, punk-rock twist.

Key Elements:

• Silhouettes: A-line midi skirts, sharp blazers, tailored trousers, and even full-on matching sets.
• Colours: Classic red tartan, earthy browns and greens, and pops of unexpected brights like electric blue and sunshine yellow.
• Textures: Wool blends, crisp cotton, and even some sheer, gauzy checks for a lighter feel.

As Seen On: Influencers are styling their checked midi skirts with chunky knitwear and biker boots for a cool off-duty look. On the celebrity front, we've seen the likes of Alexa Chung effortlessly rocking a tailored checked blazer with vintage-wash jeans.

Styling Tips:

• For the office: A checked blazer over a simple slip dress is an instant power move.
• For the weekend: A checked shacket (shirt-jacket) is your new best friend. Throw it on over a basic tee and leggings for an instantly put-together vibe.
• Budget-friendly: You don't need a head-to-toe designer look. A simple checked scarf or a pair of tartan trousers can be a great way to dip your toe into the trend.

How to Adopt:

• Wardrobe Audit: Do you have any checked pieces hiding in the back of your closet? A vintage blazer? A much-loved flannel shirt?
• Capsule Outfits:
  1. Checked Midi Skirt + Cream Turtleneck + Knee-High Boots
  2. Oversized Checked Blazer + White T-Shirt + Straight-Leg Jeans + Loafers

Longevity Forecast: Checks are a perennial favourite for a reason. While the specific silhouettes might evolve, the pattern itself is a classic that will always have a place in our wardrobes. This one's a keeper!

2. Soft Power: The Suede Bomber Revolution

Move over, leather jacket. There's a new outerwear hero in town. The suede bomber jacket is the epitome of understated luxury, adding a touch of softness and sophistication to any outfit. We've seen it everywhere on the streets of London, and for good reason—it's the perfect transitional piece.

The Vibe: Effortlessly cool and quietly confident. It's a little bit seventies, a little bit minimalist, and a whole lot chic.

Key Elements:

• Silhouettes: Classic bomber shapes, some with a slightly oversized fit, and even some more tailored, blazer-bomber hybrids.
• Colours: Earthy tones reign supreme here. Think rich chocolate browns, warm caramels, soft khakis, and creamy beiges.
• Textures: Buttery-soft suede and its equally fabulous faux counterpart.

As Seen On: Fashion editors and influencers are pairing their suede bombers with everything from wide-leg trousers to slinky slip dresses. It's the ultimate layering piece.

Styling Tips:

• Dress it up: Throw a suede bomber over a silk cami and tailored trousers for an elegant evening look.
• Keep it casual: For a relaxed weekend vibe, pair it with your favourite jeans and a simple white tee.
• Play with textures: The beauty of suede is its rich texture. Juxtapose it with other fabrics like silk, denim, and chunky knits.

How to Adopt:

• Wardrobe Audit: Do you have a go-to jacket that's feeling a bit tired? Could a suede bomber fill that gap?
• Capsule Outfits:
  1. Suede Bomber Jacket + Black Midi Dress + Ankle Boots
  2. Suede Bomber Jacket + Striped Long-Sleeve Top + White Jeans + Trainers

Longevity Forecast: While the bomber jacket is a classic silhouette, the current obsession with suede might be more of a moment. However, a well-made suede jacket in a neutral colour will always be a stylish investment.

3. The Dainty Rebellion: Socks and Heels

This one might sound a little controversial, but hear me out! The socks and heels trend is back, and it's more chic than ever. Forget the frumpy connotations of the past; this is all about adding a playful and unexpected twist to your look. It's a firm favourite among the street style set, and even A-listers like Jennifer Lawrence are getting on board.

The Vibe: Quirky, confident, and a little bit bookish. It's a nod to vintage styling with a modern, fashion-forward edge.

Key Elements:

• The Socks: Think sheer, embellished, or ribbed ankle socks in a variety of colours and textures.
• The Heels: Mary-janes, pointed-toe pumps, and even open-toed sandals are all fair game.
• The Pairing: The key is to create a deliberate and stylish contrast.

As Seen On: London's fashionistas are pairing sheer socks with chunky platform heels and mini skirts for a playful, '60s-inspired look. We've also seen delicate lace socks worn with elegant pointed-toe pumps for a more romantic feel.

Styling Tips:

• Start simple: If you're new to the trend, try a pair of black sheer socks with black heels for a subtle and sophisticated take.
• Colour play: Use your socks to add a pop of colour to a neutral outfit.
• Texture is key: A pair of ribbed-knit socks can add a cosy and autumnal feel to your favourite heels.

How to Adopt:

• Wardrobe Audit: What heels in your collection could be given a new lease on life with the addition of a cute pair of socks?
• Capsule Outfits:
  1. Black Mary-Jane Heels + White Ribbed Ankle Socks + Plaid Mini Skirt + Black Turtleneck
  2. Pointed-Toe Pumps + Sheer Polka-Dot Socks + Cropped Trousers + Silk Blouse

Longevity Forecast: This is definitely a more trend-led look, and it might not be for everyone. Enjoy it while it's here, but don't be surprised if it fades into the background in a season or two.

4. Romantic Rhapsody: The Frothy Frock

Embrace your inner romantic with the "frothy frock" trend. Think layers of tulle, delicate lace, and an abundance of ruffles. This hyper-feminine look has been a standout on both the runways and the streets, offering a dreamy and ethereal escape from the everyday.

The Vibe: Dreamy, romantic, and unapologetically feminine. It's like stepping out of a fairytale, but with a cool, contemporary twist.

Key Elements:

• Silhouettes: Voluminous mini dresses, tiered midi skirts, and gowns with dramatic, puffy sleeves.
• Colours: Soft pastels like baby blue and blush pink, as well as classic white and black.
• Textures: Tulle, organza, lace, and intricate embroidery.

As Seen On: Influencers are toughening up their frothy frocks with chunky boots and leather jackets for a cool contrast. On the red carpet, we're seeing celebrities embrace the trend in all its ethereal glory.

Styling Tips:

• Daytime dressing: A tiered, frothy midi skirt can be surprisingly wearable when paired with a simple t-shirt and trainers.
• Evening elegance: A voluminous, frothy mini dress is the perfect statement piece for a special occasion.
• Balance is key: If you're wearing a lot of volume on the bottom, keep your top half more fitted, and vice versa.

How to Adopt:

• Wardrobe Audit: Do you have any pieces with ruffles, lace, or a bit of extra volume that you could play with?
• Capsule Outfits:
  1. Frothy Tiered Midi Skirt + Band T-Shirt + Biker Boots
  2. Voluminous Sleeve Mini Dress + Strappy Heels + Minimalist Jewellery

Longevity Forecast: While the ultra-voluminous, runway-ready versions might be a fleeting fantasy, the core elements of this trend—lace, ruffles, and romantic silhouettes—are timeless. We predict a more subdued and wearable version of this trend will stick around.

So there you have it, my loves! A look into the key outfit trends shaping 2025. But remember, trends are just a starting point. The most stylish thing you can be is yourself.

And when you're feeling uninspired, don't forget that What2Wear is here to help you rediscover the gems in your own wardrobe and put together outfits that make you feel like the best version of you.

With love and style,

Your What2Wear Fashion Expert xo