Sorry About It, But These 6 2025 Trends Can Easily Look Cheap
When it comes to trends, some are here for the long haul while others fizzle out after a short period on top. In some situations, their rise was too quick, not allowing the masses to figure out how to do them correctly before they lose interest. In the case of the trends you'll find below, if not executed correctly, they can look a bit cheap (I'm looking at you, crop tops), which is likely why they're on their way out.
The trends that catch on past the fashion crowd today prove that practicality is king. Peplum tops, bomber jackets, wedge heels, and longline shorts are the blueprint for this practical (yet playful) dressing era. Don't worry about getting them wrong—you can't. They do all the work for you, keeping you looking expensive all year long.
Below, find out which new 2025 trends are taking over for those outdated fads that err more on the cheap side than the rich ones.
Out: Crop Tops
In: Peplum Tops
Peplum tops are definitely coming onto the scene. Not only are they chic, but they're trendy, making it the perfect balance. They also make a big statement every time, meaning you can throw one on with trousers, a skirt, or jeans, and you'll have an A+ outfit with little to no effort. On the contrary, crop tops must be styled just right, a tricky and time-consuming feat.
Out: Platforms
In: Sculptural Wedges
While platforms remain a great option for certain occasions, designers have proven that the new vanguard involves a sculptural wedge heel. Opt for an angular option for comfort and style.
Out: Leather Puffer Coats
In: Leather Bomber Jackets
Leather bomber jackets are one of 2025's top trends thanks to brands like Saint Laurent and Magda Butrym and celebrity fans including Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber. Investing in one of these jackets will leave you feeling regret-free for years to come.
Out: Deep V-Necks
In: Funnel Necks
Necklines have been evolving over the years and it seems the most elegant and expensive-looking option this winter is the funnel neck. There's nothing better than cozying up in a warm knit or coat that eliminates the need for extra bulk created by scarves. Sorry deep-Vs, but you simply take too much work to look sophisticated.
Out: Shackets
In: Barn Jackets
While the hybrid of a shirt and jacket has come into play, designers have made it evident that the barn jacket is the perfect dichotomy to their luxury pieces. Over the last few months, this utilitarian piece has proven that it can be styled with everything from jeans to satin gowns and still always look old-money and cool.
Out: Hot Pants
In: Longline Shorts
Although "naked dressing" and the no-pants trend have been on the record the past few seasons, designers seem to have turned their attention of late to the far more practical boyish longline shorts you'll find below. Whether made of denim or a more tailored fabric, barely above-the-knee shorts are making a name for themselves in the industry, offering a sophisticated short-shorts alternative for anyone who wants to look both in-the-know and refined.
Copelyn is a freelance fashion and accessory editor who formerly worked for Who What Wear as an associate shopping editor. Before her time at Who What Wear, Copelyn was at Bustle Digital Group, working on the accessory market for cover shoots and fashion features across Nylon, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Romper, and Elite Daily. Copelyn also previously worked at InStyle and Cosmopolitan in the fashion departments. Copelyn has a journalism degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In her spare time, she freelances in graphic and web design in the fashion space and loves to upcycle clothing, home décor, and sneakers.
-
The Brutally Honest Skincare Advice You Needed to Know Yesterday, According to 2 Beauty Industry Vets
The Dieux founders share their hot takes and unfiltered product recs.
-
Sorry to My Classic Black Shoes, But This Printed Shoe Trend Is Defining Fall 2025
Spotted on fashion people in Venice, NYC, and Copenhagen.
-
What to Buy for Fall If You Don't Want to Regret It Next Year (or the Year After)
Investments only.
-
The Top 10 Things to Buy This September If You Want Cooler Outfits and More Compliments
Fall is in full swing.
-
These 32 Chic Zara Fall 2025 Shoe Finds Are the Key to Looking Like a Fashion Person—Good Luck Picking Just One Pair
Prepare for endless compliments.
-
Abercrombie Sucked Me Back Into Its Orbit With These 25 Incredibly Chic Fall 2025 Finds
So, so good.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor on a Budget—27 Incredibly Chic Fall Finds That Will Get You More Bang for Your Buck
Stellar under-$150 finds right this way.
-
These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Finds Make Getting Ready So Much Easier (and Chicer)
Here's to effortless outfits.
-
Don't Blame Me If They Sell Out While You Read This—35 Chic Zara Finds That Need Your Immediate Attention
These won't be around for long.
-
It's True—Fashion People Are Ditching Leather Jackets for This Elevated Fall Alternative
Checkmate.