London: The Fall/Winter 2025-26 denim trends reveal a significant Gen Z influence, focusing on authenticity, creativity, and sustainability. Key narratives like ‘Avant Activist’ and ‘New Normal’ highlight a shift towards slow fashion, personal storytelling, and anti-trend sentiments within the evolving industry landscape.
As the fashion world turns its gaze towards the Fall/Winter 2025-26 season, the denim industry is undergoing a significant transformation influenced by the emerging preferences of a generation that places a premium on authenticity, creativity, and purpose. The International Denim Fair Kingpins serves as a platform showcasing these developments through insightful trend narratives presented by Denim Dudes. Their latest trend report identifies key themes shaped by the values of Generation Z, whose entrance into the workforce is fundamentally reshaping fashion dynamics.
Central to this report are four main narratives—’Avant Activist’, ‘Reframed Archives’, ‘Terminally Online’, and ‘New Normal’—each highlighting the shifting landscape of denim. The trends elucidate a growing rejection of fast fashion in favour of mindful consumption and an emphasis on personal expression through design.
The ‘Avant Activist’ trend captures Generation Z’s desire for self-expression and authenticity. This cohort, aged between 12 and 26, is navigating the cultural and creative industries with a boldness that champions values such as transparency and purposeful design. The trend manifests in denim through varied silhouettes, particularly wide-leg and asymmetrical cuts, alongside experimental techniques like patchwork. Denim is increasingly viewed not merely as a fabric but as a storytelling medium, resonating deeply with a consumer base eager for pieces that reflect personal and emotional significance. The Danish label Stamm exemplifies this ethos by merging rebellious aesthetics with craftsmanship, mirroring Gen Z’s quest for authenticity.
Another narrative, ‘Reframed Archives’, signifies a departure from conventional trends towards an anti-trend sentiment. In a climate rife with overindulgence, this movement prioritises personal narratives over celebrity-driven fashion, urging consumers to embrace wearability and individual style without pretence. Denim becomes a vehicle for relatability, featuring accessible staples like jorts paired with classic boots. The trend celebrates visible craftsmanship, showcasing items like raw hems and personalised embroidery. Designers such as Dries van Noten and Tommy Hilfiger have already showcased collections aligning with this movement, prioritising comfort and individuality while maintaining stylistic sophistication.
The ‘Terminally Online’ trend represents the intersection of digital influence and fashion, highlighting an era where trends proliferate rapidly across social media channels. This fusion of past and future aesthetics is reflected in denim styles that draw on mid-2000s nostalgia while incorporating futuristic elements. Statement washes and innovative details, such as curved seams and metallic finishes, are indicative of a playful yet rebellious energy characteristic of this trend. Acne Studios, known for its archival explorations, exemplifies this blend, creating pieces that are at once nostalgic and contemporary.
Finally, the ‘New Normal’ trend marks a resurgence of slow fashion, shifting focus towards quality, craftsmanship, and individual creativity. This movement is led by a generation of young designers advocating for intentional garment production that values artistry over volume. Denim, within this context, is reimagined through deconstruction, sculptural designs, and unexpected textures. Brands like Sacai and Diesel are at the forefront, demonstrating how denim can evolve into a medium for artistic expression. Their innovative approaches—implementing techniques such as quilting and fraying—allow for reinterpretation of denim styles while honouring their heritage.
In summary, the evolving landscape of denim for the upcoming Fall/Winter season reflects a broader cultural shift towards sustainability, individuality, and expression. As brands adapt to these trends, they will need to understand the desires of a generation that seeks more than just clothing; they are looking for garments that resonate with their values and tell their stories.
Source: Noah Wire Services
