From the unusual to the controversial: The 3 most controversial fashion trends for 2025
BUBBLE SKIRT
The bubble skirt, that voluminous and structured piece reminiscent of 1980s fashion, proves it's not ready to disappear. In 2025, it makes a strong comeback, challenging the notion that it was just a fleeting trend. On the contrary, the bubble skirt is back, reinterpreted and full of freshness, conquering runways and becoming one of the year's top trends.
Renowned brands like Jacquemus, Schiaparelli, and Miu Miu have reimagined this iconic piece with cuts and details that blend vintage charm with a modern, sophisticated approach. These fashion houses have masterfully revived the essence of the 1980s bubble skirt, giving it a bold and contemporary twist. The skirts appeared in lighter fabrics, daring prints, and shapes designed to offer movement and make a statement in their collections.
"Fashion is a reflection of the cultural and social changes of its time, and no item illustrates this statement better than the controversial bubble skirt."
This trend reflects a desire for dramatization and individual expression in fashion, offering a fresh perspective on a piece long considered outdated. In 2025, the bubble skirt makes a bold return, ready to provoke and surprise, promising to become a key player in the wardrobe of those who love embracing the unexpected and reimagined nostalgia.
"ROOFED" BALLET FLATS
The mesh, transparent, or net ballet flat is undoubtedly one of the most controversial and talked-about shoe styles of the season. With a design that blends boldness and minimalism, it has captured a loyal audience while also sparking criticism from those who fail to see beauty in its peculiar aesthetic. Dividing opinions among fashionistas, the so-called "roofed ballet flat" has established itself as one of the top trends for 2025, earning its place as a must-have item of the season.
Although this style initially emerged with a more exclusive and fashion-forward appeal, many still question its relevance in the fashion world. Nevertheless, despite the controversies, these mesh flats have broken free from the minimalist fashion bubble and found their way onto runways and into the wardrobes of bolder trendsetters. With a design combining transparency, lightness, and net-like materials, the shoe has become a social media and fashion platform icon, even ranking among the most coveted items on platforms like Lyst.
The brand behind catapulting this trend into the spotlight? Alaïa. Renowned for its haute couture craftsmanship and visionary designs, Alaïa reintroduced the "roofed ballet flat" to storefronts and runways with striking impact. Through its innovative approach, the fashion house transformed a seemingly simple piece into a bold style statement, infusing sophistication and a modern touch into a design once considered excessively daring.
BARREL PANTS
The barrel pants, also known as "barrel-shaped pants," have become one of the most talked-about trends in the fashion world recently. In 2025, they are set to solidify their position as a must-have item for those seeking a perfect balance between comfort and style. With their signature shape—wider at the thighs and tapering toward the ankles—barrel pants combine the relaxed silhouette of the '90s with a modern, sophisticated vibe, making them a versatile choice for various occasions.
Traditional denim brands like Totême, The Frankie Shop, and COS were pioneers in incorporating barrel pants into their collections, turning them into a true sensation. Their appeal goes beyond basic jeans, redefining the concept of pants while standing out for their versatility. They work well with everything from fitted tops to flowing shirts, making them a dynamic option for countless looks.
If you haven't yet tried barrel pants, 2025 is the perfect time to dive into this powerful trend, which promises to stick around and remain one of the biggest style symbols of the moment. Whether styled for everyday wear or more polished ensembles, barrel pants prove that to stand out, you need to embrace reinvention and originality.