New York Fashion Week (NYFW) 2025 was a cohesive meeting of the minds between high-profile designers and metropolitan streetwear. The sidewalks of Manhattan inspired designers to present a vibrant showcase of personal style, giving us a real-time preview of the latest fashion trends. Editors, influencers, and fashion lovers understood the vibe and arrived in their greatest street-inspired fashion. NYFW 2025 street style was a masterclass in playful sophistication, individuality, and bold statements. Here are the trends of NYFW 2025 and how you can make them your own.
The Cropped Jacket
Cropped jackets were everywhere at NYFW 2025. This trend offers a fresh take on proportion, perfect for pairing with high-waisted bottoms. From an off-duty model looks simply pairing a cropped jean jacket with straight-legged denim to a much more tailored approach, a cropped jacket pulls together a look to update your outerwear collection in a contemporary way. The versatility of a cropped jacket was a hit this fashion season.
Balloon Pants Take Over!
Comfort and volume were major themes, and nowhere was this more apparent than in the rise of balloon pants. With their rounded, voluminous style on hips that taper at the ankle, these pants have had a surprising rise in trending streetwear. They offer a dramatic yet surprisingly wearable alternative to standard wide-leg or straight-fit pants.
Leopard Print’s Fierce Return
Animal print is a perennial favorite, but this season, leopard print roared back with a vengeance. No longer just an accent, this bold pattern was worn head-to-toe with confidence. We saw full leopard print suits, flowing maxi dresses, and statement coats that commanded attention on the streets of SoHo and the Meatpacking District.
For those not ready to commit to a full ensemble, leopard was used as a powerful punctuation mark. A leopard print bag, a pair of statement boots, or a silk scarf tied around the neck added an instant touch of glamour to otherwise simple outfits. Treat it as a new neutral and don’t be afraid to mix with other prints.
Playful Accessories
This season, accessories were anything but an afterthought. They were a central part of the storytelling, adding personality and a touch of whimsy to every look. The most talked-about accessory was the pillbox hat. Vintage-inspired hats are making a comeback, provocatively combining old-school elegance and modern streetwear aesthetics.
Personal and playful touches were everywhere. Whimsical charms dangled from bags, and colorful, quirky jewelry replaced delicate, minimalist pieces of previous NYFW trends. Accessories can encourage self-expression and change any off-the-runway outfit into something of your very own.
Pattern and Texture Mixing
The unofficial rule of NYFW street style seemed to be more is more, especially when it comes to patterns. Attendees threw the old-style guides out the window, fearlessly clashing prints and patterns. A common and surprisingly cohesive combination was the mixing of argyle and plaid.
Mixing patterns causes interest in an outfit. A cozy and conservative argyle sweater over a punk-rock inspired plaid skirt can be preppy with a rock’n’roll twist. The secret to making it work? Sticking to a complementary color palette.
Textual mixing was another popular combination—a leather jacket paired with a leather skirt or trousers. By using the same textile yet different interpretations, the outfit will be interesting yet cohesive.
NYFW Fashion at Home
The trends from NYFW street style are not just for the fashion elite; they are accessible and adaptable for anyone’s wardrobe. They signal a collective desire for clothes that are both expressive and practical. The voluminous pants offer comfort without sacrificing style, while cropped jackets provide a modern layering piece. Leopard print and playful accessories are invitations to be bolder and more individualistic.
Here are a few tips to incorporate these trends.
Start Small
If a head-to-toe leopard print feels intimidating, start with a leopard print belt or shoes. If balloon pants feel too daring, try a slightly wider-leg pair of trousers.
Focus on Balance
Thinking of trying the balloon pant? Balance the rest of your outfit to be sleek and fitted. You know what’s great with a balloon pant? A cropped jacket!
Have Fun with It
Fashion should be a source of joy. Add that quirky charm to your cropped jacket, balloon pants, playful accessories, or whatever your heart desires. The best style is always your own.
Final Thoughts
The streets of New York taught us that NYFW 2025 is about embracing personal style while gaining inspiration from some of the best designers in the world.
