A new forecast reveals significant retail trends for 2025 as independent buyers pursue adventure-inspired accessories, vintage opulence, and eco-friendly products.
The latest forecast from Faire, an online wholesale marketplace, reveals significant trends emerging in the retail landscape for 2025 as independent buyers increasingly seek adventure-inspired accessories, opulent vintage pieces, and eco-friendly goods. The analysis, which reflects thousands of product searches conducted by retailers worldwide, provides a detailed look into shifting consumer preferences across several categories.
A prominent trend identified is “Victorian noir,” illustrating a growing consumer appetite for bold and indulgent décor. This trend has been influenced by period dramas and a general move away from minimalism. Searches for “burgundy” surged by 240 percent compared to two years ago, marking it as the top rising search term, closely followed by “leather products” at 50 percent and “brocade” at 29 percent. Notable sales increases have been reported by retailers such as McGowan & Rutherford, a Cambridge-based wholesaler, which has seen a 40 percent rise in sales of black-framed mirrors, and Somerset jeweller Augusta Jewellery, where founder Charmaine Ryan noted a notable shift towards opulent jewelry featuring rich gemstones. “I have definitely noticed a shift towards opulent jewellery, particularly pieces with deep, dramatic gemstones like ruby and emerald,” she said.
The trend titled “Intentional detours” highlights a post-pandemic desire among consumers for offline experiences and spontaneous adventures, leading to a rise in searches for adventure-related products. Notably, searches for “tent,” “blankets,” “polaroid,” and “film” have surged. Pairs Scotland, which offers durable mohair socks, reported a 60 percent sales increase in the last quarter of 2024 in response to this trend. Director Alice Macfarlane emphasized the importance of durability for outdoor adventures, while Heating & Plumbing London co-founder Franck Jehanne noted ongoing success for their picnic toolkit collection, which remains popular among rally event participants.
The findings also reveal a strong consumer preference for eco-friendly, handcrafted products under the trend labeled “Neutral good.” A rise in searches for “wicker,” “rattan,” and “woven” items signals a growing focus on sustainability. Tenth Muse, a brand that specializes in solid perfumes, reported strong sales since its launch in March 2023, with founder Sophie Beaumont Willis indicating a substantial consumer shift towards natural and plastic-free fragrances.
Additionally, “Everyday hopecore” echoes the emotional connection of consumers to playful and nostalgic items, evidenced by a staggering 500 percent increase in searches for “purse charm.” Cotton Clara, a Leicestershire-based embroidery brand, has experienced strong demand for its friendship bracelets and sewing kits, offering products with nostalgic designs that resonate with adult customers. Founder Chloe Hardisty noted that these products reflect a comforting and hopeful sentiment, aligning with consumer desires for mindfulness and peace during challenging times.
Charlotte Broadbent of Faire emphasized that these trends showcase a broader shift towards joy and self-expression in consumer purchasing decisions. She stated, “The 2025 Faire Forecast shows that shoppers are prioritizing adventure, opulence, sustainability, and nostalgia in their purchasing decisions.” Broadbent believes this presents an opportunity for independent retailers to curate collections that resonate emotionally with customers, a strategy that could enhance customer loyalty and foster meaningful growth in the evolving retail landscape of 2025.
As independent retailers prepare for the year ahead, those who adapt to these emerging trends and emphasize curated product selections may find themselves well-positioned to succeed amidst an ever-changing market.
Source: Noah Wire Services
