Are micro-trends over? After all, 2024’s lack of new “core” trends suggests that’s the case. However, they have only cooled off and are not entirely out. But what has changed is that more people now prefer personal style over following the latest trends.
Summer 2023 may have been packed with high-profile events fueling new trends (like Quick Luxury and Barbiecore), but 2024 didn’t follow suit. Hence, experts say 2025 will be more about individuality than aesthetics.
Curious about the state of micro-trends? This article will provide insights into the fashion industry and explore how five once-popular trends are evolving to meet the current market.
Table of Contents
Are micro-trends really fading away?
5 micro-trends still attracting some attention according to experts
Main takeaway
Are micro-trends really fading away?
It may seem like micro-trends have disappeared in recent years, but it’s far from the truth. Instead, what’s fading is the obsession with placing styles in niche aesthetics and endless trend cycles. Business buyers no longer want to follow strict style rules and are embracing something more flexible. The new normal will be consumers picking their favorite elements to create unique looks.
Even early adopters are turning away from mainstream social media fashion, further slowing the growth of micro-trends. While some items, like button-down shirts, ballet flats, and Old Money influences, are still trending, consumers love them for their general and seasonal appeal—no more strict aesthetic labels.
5 micro-trends still attracting some attention according to experts
1. Office siren
The “Office Siren” trend, a blend of modern workwear and ‘90s minimalism, took off in early 2024 and has been a hit with Gen Z on Pinterest. According to EDITED’s report, the trend made up 73% of Pinterest searches, which is impressive considering the current state of micro-trends.
But that’s not all. Sales of items popular with the look are also rising. The same report shows staples like suit pants and pleated skirts are up 12% year-over-year. Button-down shirts and kitten heels also saw massive growth, up 101% and 224%, respectively.
Although the term “Office Siren” may eventually feel outdated, demand for these styles will likely continue into 2025, with baggy-fit charcoal gray suit pants (featured in collections from Bottega Veneta and Miu Miu) expected to be a standout piece.
Additionally, 2025 will see the style evolve into a more playful and preppy look, mixing academia and retro vibes. Some key items brands should watch include ties, longline shorts, stripes, boxer shorts, checks, and smart footwear.
2. Blokecore/Blokette
EDITED’s report shows that UK Pinterest searches for “Blokecore” and “Blokette” spiked in March and April 2024. It also surged again in the summer before the Euros, with Gen Z driving 72 to 76% of searches.
Football shirts and jorts have been trendy, with sales up by 92% and 49% year-over-year (according to the same report). Blokette’s Coquette-inspired elements, like ballet flats, have also seen interest spikes, with sales up by 162% (especially styles like bows and Mary Janes).
Here is other exciting news for shoes under this trend that businesses should know. Experts say the Sandy Liang x Salomon collaboration will create the next must-have shoe, blending sportswear with feminine touches. While many are losing hype for the Samba, retro sneakers remain a strong seller for Adidas, with models like SL 72 OG selling out fast.
Looking ahead to 2025, major women’s sports events will keep Blokette staples like sports jerseys and retro trainers in demand. Meanwhile, men’s fashion is leaning into preppy sportswear, encouraging retailers to stock up on rugby shirts, polos, and plimsolls.
3. Quiet luxury
Quiet luxury is one of the few micro-trends that has taken a big hit. Although Pinterest searches for the trend peaked in January 2024, they have since declined, with 43% of searches coming from users aged 25 to 34, compared to 25% from those under 24.
Demand for classic items tied to this trend (like blazers) has dropped, with blazers recording a 14% fall and more discounts popping up (based on data from EDITED). Plain white tank tops also saw an 11% decline as graphic tees became more popular.
The same report also shows that waistcoats have seen more success, with a 132% increase in new arrivals, suggesting the style may have hit its peak. The fading of quiet luxury is not all bad, though, as experts believe “old money” dressing will influence Spring/Summer 2025. The focus will be on knitted polos, linen trousers, revere shirts, leather sandals, and raffia accessories.
4. Mob wife
The “mob wife” aesthetic quickly rose and fell in popularity, peaking on Pinterest in January 2024 before fading. Although the trend was short-lived, it sparked a renewed interest in animal prints, particularly leopard prints, which saw a 98% increase in sales year over year (according to EDITED’s report).
This print’s appearance at Ganni and Blumarine’s Pre-Spring 2025 shows suggests it will stick around. Experts from EDITED expect that the Zebra print (though less popular) will gain traction following its spotlight in Jacquemus’ Cruise collection and Rihanna’s endorsement.
The heavy use of leather and faux fur in the “mob wife” aesthetic likely contributed to its decline, especially with seasonality’s significant role. While some elements (like fluffy textures) may influence Fall/Winter 2024 and Spring/Summer 2025 trends, retailers should watch how Gen Z styles these pieces for better marketing strategies.
5. Micro gimmicks
In the post-COVID fashion scene, luxury designers have leaned into creating viral moments, with over-the-top shows and quirky products dominating trends. Gimmick fashion, popularized by items like the MCHF Big Red Boot, is still going strong.
Handbags, in particular, have been flying off the shelves. For instance, Balenciaga’s chip bag and JW Anderson’s hedgehog clutch sold out within days on luxury sites like Mytheresa and Luisaviaroma. While footwear is trending towards sleeker designs, statement styles are still making waves.
Take Alexander McQueen’s hoof boot, for example. It sold out in just over a week. Crocs also excels in this space, with collaborations like Cars, Pokemon, and Naruto selling out within 24 hours and the Pringles collab taking 25 days to sell out (based on records from EDITED).
Main takeaway
Experts predicted a return to more wearable fashion in mid-2023, as micro-trends and meme-driven styles received too much exposure. Schiaparelli’s FW24 Couture show reflected this shift by not creating internet-breaking moments. Additionally, 74% of Gen Z now prioritizes real-life experiences over digital ones, favoring items with offline appeal over buying purely for online content.
Online cultures and social media platforms may still influence fashion trends, but retailers should focus on adaptable styles that blend online relevance with real-world wearability. Take a page from the book of S/S 25’s soft living aesthetics.
