Fashion is cyclical—we all know that. But in 2025, vintage isn’t just making a comeback like your average ’90s trend. Instead, it’s taking over in a way we haven’t seen before. After years of fast fashion dominating the industry and social media pushing micro-trends that last only a few weeks (I’m looking at you, barrel pants), people are craving something different—something timeless, personal, and built to last. Finally, we’re starting to realize how destructive overconsumption is. And not just for our planet, wallets, and mental health, but also for our sense of individuality.

So, instead of just recycling ’90s and early 2000s aesthetics (which, let’s be honest, have been trending for years), we’re seeing a deeper appreciation for the glamour, craftsmanship, quality over quantity, and individuality of past decades. Again, I have to note that I’m not just talking about nostalgia. This shift is rooted in sustainability, exclusivity, and a desire to stand out in a world of sameness and “quick fixes.” So, let me explain a bit further what I mean by that.

Celebrities Are Leading the Vintage Fashion Revolution

If you know me, you know I’m not too much into celebrity culture. However, I still want to take a moment to highlight the celebrities who have helped us appreciate not just vintage glamour but also a sense of individuality. Let’s be real: in most cases, celebrities set the tone for major fashion movements. And right now, their obsession with vintage is reshaping what’s cool.

Taylor Swift has been at the forefront, stepping out in archival Versace, Gucci, and Vivienne Westwood. She has always loved a vintage touch to her outfits. However, she has taken it even further in the last couple of months. Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter has mastered the art of mixing Gen-Z elements with pin-up ’60s vibes, making old pieces look fresh again.

Then there’s Zendaya, who, with her longtime stylist Law Roach, has turned vintage into a red carpet power move. From her jaw-dropping Mugler robot suit to the vintage Givenchy couture she wore at the Oscars, she’s redefining what it means to make a statement with fashion. Rihanna, too, continues to make waves with her love for extravagant vintage couture—Christian Lacroix, Galliano-era Dior, and 1990s Chanel. With all of these gorgeous vintage looks, it was only a matter of time before the rest of the world started appreciating them too.

Old Hollywood Glamour Is Back (And It’s More Relevant Than Ever)

For the past decade, minimalism ruled the fashion world. The clean girl aesthetic completely took over the fashion and beauty industry, so we were seeing a lot of clean lines, neutral color palettes, and minimalistic makeup. While I liked this aesthetic myself, we have to be honest about one thing—it’s boring! There’s literally no sense of individuality in it. Luckily, in 2025, the pendulum is swinging back—hard—toward the full-fledged glamour of Old Hollywood.

Bias-cut silk gowns, intricate beadwork, and feathered accessories are making a comeback, channeling the timeless elegance of Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor. Designers are ditching fast-fashion aesthetics in favor of luxurious, figure-flattering silhouettes, and even beauty trends are shifting to match the mood. Red lips, winged eyeliner, soft pin curls, and bold brows? Suddenly, they’re everywhere again.

However, this whole thing isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about reclaiming a sense of grandeur and craftsmanship that’s been lost in a world of mass production. People want fashion that feels special again—something that carries history, artistry, and a story. They also want to express themselves through their style and not just blindly follow every micro-trend that appears on TikTok.

The Rise of Forgotten Vintage Designers

While brands like Chanel and Versace will always have their place, we’re currently seeing a shift towards lesser-known vintage designers. Christian Lacroix, once known for his extravagant, over-the-top couture, is having a resurgence as vintage lovers hunt down his most dramatic designs. Jean Patou’s 1920s and ’30s silhouettes are making a quiet yet powerful return, influencing modern interpretations of flapper-era fashion.

And let’s talk about vintage Armani. Cate Blanchett, Gwyneth Paltrow, and other A-listers have been raiding the brand’s archives, proving that Giorgio Armani’s signature tailoring is just as relevant now as it was decades ago.

Western Wear Gets the High-Fashion Treatment

Now, let’s talk about an aspect of vintage fashion that’s supposed to be HUGE in 2025. You’ve probably already seen a lot of cowboy-inspired pieces on designer runways. And that’s no coincidence, because Western-inspired fashion will be one of the biggest trends for 2025. I’m talking fringes, suede, denim, and cowboy boots. While this isn’t the usual “vintage glamour” look that most people are picturing, it still has a nostalgic aspect that we can’t help but appreciate.

Who made this trend as big as it is? No one other than Bella Hadid, who is currently even dating a real-life cowboy. However, there’s a catch to this. Instead of settling for mass-produced “Western-inspired” pieces from fast fashion brands, vintage lovers are seeking out authentic finds from heritage labels like Ralph Lauren and Levi’s. This will not only ensure that your shopping hauls are more sustainable, but you’ll also have items that have history and character.

The Quiet Luxury Movement

Everyone knows that the Old Money/Quiet Luxury aesthetic had a huge moment in 2023 and 2024. However, this trend is only going to become bigger this year, but in a vintage way. First of all, don’t be surprised if you notice a complete rejection of loud logos and flashy branding. The new fashion flex? Owning something unique, impeccably made, and impossible to replicate. No one would even know where you bought it because there would be absolutely no logos to identify it.

Angelina Jolie recently made headlines when she attended an event in an unmarked vintage gown, sending a clear message—style isn’t about the name on the label, it’s about the story behind the piece. This mindset is fueling a renewed interest in thrifting, vintage boutiques, and secondhand marketplaces. It’s not about owning the most expensive stuff anymore. Instead, it’s about creating a wardrobe that’s unique and authentic. And I’m so here for that!

Beauty’s New Era

Finally, I want to talk a little bit about the beauty aspect of this trend. Because it’s not just vintage fashion that is making a comeback—it’s makeup too. After what feels like years of the clean girl aesthetic dominating the beauty world, we’re FINALLY back to a more glamorous makeup look. Now, I’m not talking about the 2016 cut crease and heavy contour era. Instead, we’re starting to appreciate true vintage opulence. A doll-like complexion, big, bold lashes, red lips (but instead of matte, we’re seeing more red glosses paired with brown lip liners), winged eyeliner, and flushed cheeks.

But there will also be a similar shift in hair trends. Instead of the sleek bun that we have been seeing all over social media, expect to see an increase in voluminous, bouncy hair reminiscent of the ’90s supermodel era. And let’s be real, this is endlessly more flattering than any sleek bun ever will be. I’m just happy to see that after a couple of years, beauty is finally again becoming more about artistry and individuality, giving us permission to experiment, glam up, and embrace our inner bombshells.