In the ever-changing world of fashion, trends pop up and disappear faster than you can say “crop tops.” It’s no wonder that many designers are looking to the past for inspiration, bringing back familiar silhouettes, colors, and patterns that define the hottest dress styles of the season. The runways for spring/summer 2025 showcased a mix of retro influences, from ’60s shift dresses to ’80s bubble hems, and Woodstock-worthy boho dresses that cater to modern tastes. Even classic polka dots got a modern makeover, proving that everything old is new again.
Nautical vibes are making waves this season, with sailor-striped dresses making a splash in collections from Miu Miu to Moschino. Pastel hues are also having a moment, with ballet pink, butter yellow, and pistachio green taking center stage in designs from Chanel, Jil Sander, Gucci, and Khaite. Micro-mini dresses are not for the faint of heart, but designers like Dôen, Retrofete, and Sau Lee offer plenty of styling options to make them wearable for all. And who can resist the ethereal quality of wafty florals, seen in designs from Dôen, Reformation, Ganni, and Prada?
Drop-waist dresses are making a comeback thanks to brands like Marni, Emilia Wickstead, and Acne Studios, offering a fresh take on body-con styles. Polka dots are getting a modern twist this season, with dresses that nod to different eras like the mid-2010s or ’80s maximalism. Diaphanous draping adds a goddess-like quality to special occasion dresses from Stella McCartney, Victoria Beckham, and Christopher Esber, perfect for feeling powerful and sensual. Bubble hems are back in style, but this time they’re understated and modern, as seen in designs from Jonathan Anderson, Marc Jacobs, and Chemena Kamali.
Boho dresses are back in full force, with vegetal prints, embroidered trims, and patchwork paisleys dominating the runways of Valentino, Saint Laurent, and other top designers. And for those looking to avoid trends altogether, anti-trend basics from The Row, Toteme, and Ralph Lauren offer oversized silhouettes and effortless chic that never goes out of style. So whether you’re a fan of sailor stripes, pastel hues, micro-mini dresses, or boho vibes, there’s a dress trend for everyone this season.
