Summer 24/25 Fashion Trend Report

AFI Insider

The beauty about a new season, is the ushering of renewal, especially in fashion.

It’s where vibrant colours and innovative design trends merge for a fresh, dynamic take on fashion.

It’s when shoppers excitingly prepare for their summer holidays, curating a vacation wardrobe that will be the envy of the voyeurs vicariously living through them.  

Summer 24/25 presents an exciting range of trends. It promises a vibrant mix of practical yet stylish pieces that balance innovation with wearability.  

As trend analyst Nicola Cooper highlights, these trends reflect a deep understanding of consumer desires for versatility, comfort, and bold self-expression. 

Here are the key fashion and style trends this season with advice from Nicola Cooper with key looks from the Cape Town Fashion Week runway.

Reflective and shiny fabrics bring an edgy opulence to summer wardrobes. Expect these luxe materials in dresses and tops that add a modern touch to classic looks. 

For those who embrace boldness, maximalism reigns supreme with eclectic patterns, vibrant colours, and an explosion of personality. This trend speaks to self-expression and individuality, making a strong statement wherever you go. 

Sleek and powerful, tailored pieces with feminine details like cinched waists and softer fabrics are redefining suiting. This trend emphasises confidence and elegance in equal measure, while making the clothes appeal to everyone.  

With global events like the Paris Olympics driving inspiration, sportswear meets high fashion in ways that celebrate both functionality and flair. This trend is perfect for consumers who want their wardrobe to be as dynamic as their lifestyle. Blurring the lines between sporty and stylish, athletic-inspired pieces are dominating. Think tennis skirts, retro sneakers, and streamlined sporty silhouettes that add versatility and comfort to any wardrobe. 

A fresh take on pants, the barrel-leg silhouette—flared at the hip and tapered at the ankle—is gaining traction for its unique shape and practicality. 

Animal prints, especially leopard, are making a triumphant return. From luxury brands to high street fashion, this classic pattern is being reimagined for contemporary audiences. 

Soft, romantic, and ultra-feminine, the coquette looks channels light pinks, pearly finishes, and delicate textures. With rising interest among Gen Z, this aesthetic pairs nostalgia with playful modernity. 

As consumers prioritise eco-conscious choices, sustainable materials and experimental textiles are stepping into the spotlight. Designers are incorporating innovative fabrics that appeal to environmentally aware shoppers. 

Nicola Cooper is the founder of Nicola Cooper & Associates. She is a Multi-Award-Winning Senior Analyst with a focus on Fashion, Lifestyle & Pop/Youth Culture.