Outdated Trends You Don't Want To Be Caught Wearing In Spring 2025
Though the most important factor in dressing for spring 2025 is wearing whatever makes you comfortable, if you want to be on trend as the weather starts to heat up, we've got you covered. We spoke to fashion stylist and lifestyle expert Joseph Katz — who offers exclusive fashion insights, celebrity interviews, and style tips via "The Katz Walk" – to find out what fads to leave in the cold, and what to wear instead.
When reaching for new pieces this season, choose your color wisely. Though summer 2024's color trends included cherry red and bright yellows, they're no longer in favor. "Neutrals like ivory and soft beige are giving surfaces a fresh, elevated feel," Katz, who also revealed deep blues are hot, exclusively told Women.com of this spring's go-to shades. The elegant and classy Mocha Mousse (an earthy yet light brown) will also continue to reign supreme as Pantone's 2025 color of the year, while burgundy, another hot fashion trend for 2025, will also be popular. When it comes to garments, though? Say goodbye to the likes of branded athleisure gear and super short miniskirts.
Micro miniskirts
The miniskirt revival of 2023 is over. "While ultra-short skirts have been everywhere in recent seasons, it looks like the vibe is shifting toward more relaxed and wearable styles," Joseph Katz shared. "Micro minis might be losing a bit of their edge as people lean into practicality and versatility, all while keeping that effortless elegance in mind," he added.
Instead of the leg-baring micro mini, Katz suggested bounding into spring in a midi or maxi skirt made from a soft, lightweight fabric that isn't too clingy. "We're seeing a mix of sleek, body-skimming silhouettes and versions with subtle, airy volume — both are key trends this season," he said. To keep things ultra-modern, swap basic skirts for items with cut-outs, slits or appliques. "[They give] skirts a fresh, elevated feel," Katz said. "I Love this great light weight skirt from Aritzia. I also like this great long skirt from Reformation."
If you're going rogue and still plan to reach for a skirt as the weather gets warmer, there's a way to do it without being so two years ago. Though the super short version may be out, pleated miniskirt looks will still be popular.
Barbiecore and ultra-saturated pinks
As much as we loved the Barbie obsession that reigned supreme in summer 2023 thanks to Greta Gerwig's iconic movie, Barbiecore is officially dead in spring 2025. "As trends move toward understated elegance and earthy hues, the hot pink wave is expected to subside," Joseph Katz told us. Instead, he suggested choosing more understated shades that don't demand so much attention. "Softer pastels and natural tones will likely take center stage," Katz shared. "Rich brown tones remain strong, with deeper shades getting extra attention this season," the fashion expert, who also championed pale blues and yellows, added. They highlighted this pale blue Chambray dress from Tnuck as an easy piece to wear out in spring.
But if bright colors are more your thing, you're not totally out of luck. Though vibrant pinks should be put away (for now) Katz recommended replacing them with bright reds or oranges, as these playful shades will be hot as resort wear.
Neon and overly branded athleisure gear
Though brightly colored, heavily branded athleisure gear has been popular since the pandemic, spring 2025 will be the season of change. In line with the shift away from Barbiecore brights, muted and neutral tones will be increasingly popular in the athleisure world too. "Bold neon shades are taking a backseat this season," Joseph Katz said, suggesting it's time to swap them with subtler garments. "Think earthy hues and gentle pastels for a more laid-back yet polished vibe," he shared. Katz also recommended giving super shiny, metallic, and glossy athleisure pieces a rest, as matte gear will be the finish to be seen in.
Though a single, subtle logo may be unavoidable, too many are not only outdated, they can also be a fashion mistake that's a total turn-off. To avoid being off trend, choose pieces that assimilate more with the quiet luxury vibe than the brash mob-wife aesthetic than went viral on TikTok in 2024.
Traditional athleisure basics
It still rings true that you can never go wrong with a quality pair of yoga pants, but spring 2025 will be about elevating traditional athleisure wear to give it a modern edge. As Joseph Katz exclusively told us, "Basic pieces are getting fresh updates that make them stand out." So, how do we elevate our basics to stay on trend? Katz suggested dressing in oversized pieces instead of classic, slim-fit workout gear or trying quirkier garments like cropped polo shirts with large collars.
Layering can also prevent your athleisure from looking like it's stuck in 2024. "Blazers are key to creating a more polished, workwear-inspired look. Opt for fitted cuts and cropped sleeves for a modern feel," he said.
While a structured blazer over a sporty top or hoodie can stop you looking dated, pieces made from cotton and nylon will be your best friend for the season, too. "[They] keep the look clean and effortless," Katz said. "This is a great nylon jacket from Self Portrait that follows the trend. For something like a great classic jacket, I like this Vuori jacket."