Aotearoa: As the fashion industry enters 2025, leaders reveal a shift towards sustainability, individuality, and mindful consumption. Insights reflect evolving trends like second-hand markets, relaxed menswear, and maximalist styles, indicating a growing momentum for quality and personal expression over quantity.
As Aotearoa’s fashion industry embarks on the new year, various insiders are poised to redefine style and consumption patterns as they look towards 2025. The outlook reflects growing trends towards sustainability, individuality, and a conscious shift in how consumers engage with fashion.
Industry leaders, including designers and creatives, have shared their insights into the anticipated changes. Gosia Piatek, founder of Kowtow, emphasised the burgeoning significance of the second-hand clothing market. “The pre-loved/second hand market is growing so much in momentum and a necessity for driving forward sustainability in fashion,” she remarked. Kowtow’s recent relove programme, which allows customers to buy and sell second-hand items, has seen significant success. Moreover, Piatek noted that comfort, volume, and colour continue to drive trends, especially with the upcoming launch of their new collection under head designer Dayne Johnston.
Joshua Heares, the founder and Creative Director at Porter James Sports, indicated a notable shift from streetwear towards relaxed menswear and tailored items. He predicted increased purchases of leather footwear over sneakers, alongside a rise in knitwear, marking a significant change in consumer preferences.
Jacki Brescic, Director at Fabric, spotlighted oversized tailoring as a dominant trend, alongside natural hues reminiscent of early 2000s fashion. “Denim continues to be number 1,” she confirmed, with styles such as straight, wide, and cuffed leading the charge.
Meanwhile, Marc Moore, Creative Director and Founder of Stolen Girlfriends Club, pointed out the trend of underconsumption, notably popularised on social media platforms like TikTok. He stated that consumers are now adopting a philosophy of buying less but better, “spending more per item on fewer pieces.” Moore expressed concern over the saturation of mainstream luxury brands, suggesting that consumers increasingly desire individuality and narrative in their clothing choices. He also noted a rise in diverse jewellery styles, with both men and women exploring combinations that signal creativity and personal expression.
Liz Hyun, a notable makeup artist, forecasted the return of matte lips, with innovative formulations set to enhance their application. Additionally, Hyun projected an integration of gems and crystals into makeup looks, reflecting a shift towards incorporating personal and intricate details in beauty.
Sam Hickey, Co-Founder and Creative Director at Asuwere, highlighted a growing demand for simplicity in fashion, moving away from exaggerated trends towards carefully curated wardrobes filled with quality pieces. He described an emerging trend towards real-world engagement, as consumers seek to break free from the overwhelming digital landscape and prioritise authentic experiences.
Organisers Nina Bailey, Sophia Kwon, and Billy Blamires of Te Wiki ?hua O Aotearoa highlighted the concept of anti-trend dressing and the importance of escapism in fashion moving forward. They suggest that every trend is now viewed as interchangeable, thus providing a platform for individual expression rather than adherence to a market-driven narrative.
Rebecca Rangihuna, a PR Account Manager at Showroom22, forecasted a shift towards maximalist styles, countering the minimalism that has dominated recent seasons. She claimed that in 2025, personal style will take precedence, with bold colours and eclectic patterns becoming the norm.
As the fashion landscape evolves in Aotearoa, a clear trajectory shows a collective momentum towards sustainability, individual expression, and a reassessment of consumer values within the industry. With these insights, industry insiders are shaping the future of fashion, ensuring that it is not only aesthetically pleasing but also mindful of its environmental footprint.
Source: Noah Wire Services
