Rachel Choi is a Behavioural Analyst at Canvas8. With a degree in Archaeology and Anthropology from Oxford University, she has an interdisciplinary understanding of behavioural and cultural patterns across societies. She has a love for stories that capture the nature of human experience, through writing, media, or material culture. Outside of work, you can find her attending exhibitions, oscillating between overthinking and head-empty-just-vibes, or rewatching her favourite (usually Studio Ghibli!) films.


Fashion's trend cycle is increasingly speeding up, with TikTok exacerbating the rise of viral aesthetics that 

. Many of these are a nostalgic throwback to the past, whether that's the unapologetic excess of the 

 that builds on the enduring quiet luxury trend. For Gen Zers, fashion and style play a huge role in establishing their identities, and they're taking inspiration from social media. 

, for example, have been popularised by platforms like TikTok and Pinterest as a unique and creative way of signalling individuality. However, the backlash against micro-trends is on the rise. The 

 has been called out as a flattened, hollow appropriation of immigrant cultures, while '

 has highlighted the hypocrisy of fleeting algorithmic trend cycles being used to substitute personal style.

As micro-trends accelerate, people are becoming more aware of the impulsive nature of purchases they drive. There’s also a sense of frustration from an overload of 

, especially on TikTok, which adds to the concern about the effects of both overconsumption and algorithmic recommendations. Overconsumption is 

 have voted to back a series of measures to penalise fast fashion. People feel 

remorse over their fast fashion purchases

, with 41% of young Britons saying their habits directly contradict their climate anxiety. To keep up with the latest fashion trends while being more sustainable, young people are turning to resale, upcycling, and thrifting, even around occasions like 

. But even with resale skyrocketing in popularity, overconsumption remains at the heart of the fashion problem – and some brands like 

 are encouraging people to rethink their purchases, buying with intent instead of impulse.

Many people are looking to be more conscious of their clothing consumption, saving both the environment and their wallets. They’re finding ways to cut through the noise of micro-trends. 

 provides technology-based information on what’s actually trending and worth investing in, backed up with statistics. In a similar vein, Gen Zers are 

 to monitor how often they wear each piece and moving towards slower models of consumption. But for those who are still seeking out trend-led pieces, brands are finding ways to encourage sustainable behaviours through circular business practices. 

 has launched a resale app and a new collection of upcycled leather boots for those increasingly turning to second-hand and refurbished fashion to save on cost while being more sustainable. For people who are prioritising durability as a form of sustainability, brands such as 

 offer quality and timeless pieces that appeal to a modern sensibility.

of people in the US agree they’re careful to think about how much real value they get when and where they spend their money 

Uniqlo seamlessly intertwines trends and sustainable shopping behaviours, forging a unique path towards responsible yet stylish consumerism. By curating collections that capture the essence of contemporary shopper needs, Uniqlo ensures that its offerings remain both relevant and cutting-edge.

How Uniqlo builds on trends for conscious shoppers

In an era where micro-trends reign supreme and everyone’s a critic, Data, But Make it Fashion is cutting through the noise to provide fashionistas with technology-based information on what’s actually trending and worth investing in. How is the platform shaping the future of fashion?

How Data, But Make it Fashion reshapes shopping trends

As more and more people seek products that align with their values, France has introduced various schemes to promote sustainability within fashion. Will these initiatives pave the way for a re-evaluation of shopping habits? How might they change French consumers’ relationships with fashion?

The future of sustainable fashion in France

Dudu Bertholini uses fashion as a medium to challenge social expectations around gender and identity in Brazil. As a public non-binary figure, Bertholini's dedication to inclusive representation has cemented their status as a cultural tastemaker who sheds light on important societal issues.

How Dudu Bertholini gives a voice to Brazil’s LGBTQIA+ community

Merging cultural heritage with innovation, Black British designers are reshaping London’s fashion scene. But can they continue driving change in an industry still marred by under-representation and unequal access to opportunities while maintaining their creative integrity?

The cultural and creative impact of Black British designers

Pandora has committed to using 100% recycled gold and silver in its jewellery, joining a wider industry effort to put sustainability first. As people become more aware of the urgency of the climate crisis, they're increasingly expecting businesses to go the extra mile to do their bit.

Pandora pledges to use only recycled gold and silver

Mulberry has achieved B Corp certification. As luxury fashion brands are increasingly scrutinised for their sustainability and green claims, third-party certifications like these spotlight transparency, rebuild trust and help people feel safer and more confident about their choices.

Mulberry recognised for eco-commitments 

Telfar is debuting its first leather bag with an exclusive pop-up at Selfridges. As demand for localised stories rises, brands can redefine luxury by fostering deeper connections through tactile engagement and culturally fluid narratives, offering a fresh perspective on traditional luxury concepts.

Telfar redefines accessible luxe with debut leather bag

The luxury market has taken a hit post-pandemic because of slower tourism and the rising cost of living. In France, this means that Parisian stores are recalibrating their strategies to increase accessibility, showing how a shifting landscape can open new and exciting opportunities.




Parisian stores aim to make luxury accessible again

Bottega Veneta has tapped 'child-like wonder' on the MFW runway. As people seek escape from global stressors through nostalgia and playful experiences, luxury brands can create emotional connections by evoking fond childhood memories while maintaining sophistication in their products and experiences.

Bottega Veneta reveals luxury fashion's inner child

The "Made in the UK" series champions Burberry's commitment to supporting British manufacturing. Brands that spotlight hyper-locality with storytelling and offerings will resonate with audiences looking for authentic, rooted experiences in an increasingly interconnected world.

Burberry spotlights local heritage with Made in the UK

Gender-neutral garments are emerging in Asia-Pacific. In Japan, specifically, intimate-wear brand Peach John has initiated collaborations with companies to foster inclusive fashion, eliminate gender envy, and transcend body types, without forgoing aesthetics and functionality.

How Peach John makes lingerie inclusive for Japanese women

Urban Outfitters is launching a college-inspired pop-up at 20 major US colleges. With back-to-school season often causing anxiety for many, brands can help ease the stress by creating personalized and immersive experiences that resonate with students' values, beliefs, and identities.

Urban Outfitters lures Gen Z with back-to-school pop-ups

Activewear label Crop Shop Boutique has garnered a cult reputation for putting its community first. As Aussie wellness and fitness enthusiasts seek out activewear that seamlessly fits from work to workouts, CSB empowers Aussie women to feel good about themselves in and out of the gym.

How Crop Shop Boutique brings style to active Aussies

British-Nigerian designer Tolu Coker took to the LFW runway with a collection that celebrates her Nigerian roots. As the link between fashion and identity deepens, brands can reframe national heritage for new audiences by using style as a tool for cultural expression and community connection.

Tolu Coker’s LFW runway pays homage to Nigerian roots

As trends come and go at lightning speed, Shein stays ahead by producing ultra-fast, trend-driven products that capture the essence of real-time retail. It has also started offering products in its physical store in Japan, where people look for trendy and affordable items with seamless shopping.

Why Shein blends online convenience and offline retail for Japanese shoppers

Zara has announced plans to launch its pre-owned platform in the US after running in 16 European countries. As the shift towards circularity gains traction, people expect brands to support their eco-values by encouraging convenient ways to repair, reuse, and extend the life cycle of garments.

Zara bolsters eco-efforts with pre-owned expansion

The global market demand for athleisure is rising, and one brand that remains at the forefront is Lululemon. Its premium product range is underpinned by a community and ethics-focused business strategy that ensures that, despite the hefty price, the brand remains accessible.

Why Lululemon encourages active shopping among Britons

Starbucks and Hello Kitty have united to launch exclusive merchandise and drinks across thirteen APAC regions to celebrate Hello Kitty's 50th anniversary. By tapping into nostalgia and people’s love for collaboration, they aim to captivate and unite new fan groups.

Starbucks and Hello Kitty launch anniversary merchandise

Stone Island’s Fall/Winter 2024 campaign looks to define precisely what makes its community so distinct. Straddling the worlds of music, sport, and art, it highlights what it means to be a truly modern brand – one that's as much about the people who wear it as it is about the clothes themselves.

Stone Island campaign celebrates community and culture

Primark is launching a Swap Shop pop-up experience where people can exchange pre-loved items in its stores. The initiative coincides with the rise of the circular economy and presents an opportunity for brands to extend garment lifespan by encouraging peer-to-peer exchanges and fashion rentals.

Primark’s pre-loved Swap Shop lures eco-minded shoppers

Palace and Vivienne Westwood have launched their first-ever collaboration with a uniquely British twist. As people increasingly want their clothes to reflect their roots and identity, brands can appeal to fashion lovers by emphasising the power of storytelling and reframing heritage codes.

Palace x Vivienne Westwood celebrate British heritage

After being discontinued in 2017, J.Crew is bringing back its catalog – a once-beloved staple of 90s American style. In a bid to escape the digital deluge, people are seeking out slower and more intentional modes of consumption, finding a sense of grounding in the analog.

J.Crew catalog re-launch taps analog newstalgia

Prada has launched a hotline connecting callers with writer Miranda July to recreate the conversations at the heart of their latest campaign. With the lines between artist and audience blurring, people are seeking more participatory ways to engage with media and get a peek behind the scenes.

Prada campaign lets fans join the conversation 

The Department of Nike Archives is opening up ahead of a 2025 exhibition. With heritage and limited editions central to how status is consumed and expressed in fashion, the celebration of Nike's cultural impact will resonate with fans looking to immerse themselves in the brand's world.

Nike exhibition offers immersive cultural status to fans

Stitch Fix’s online subscription service connects users with professional stylists who help revamp their wardrobe with clothing from partner brands. As the demand for personalized services rises, how are brands evolving to meet people’s needs? And what role can AI play in building personal style?

How Stitch Fix diversifies access to personalized style

Betty Smith effectively taps into the growing demand for authentic, localised experiences by offering a range of immersive activities – from custom jeans-making workshops to factory tours and museum exhibits – catering to today’s consumers who seek deeper connections with brands.

Why Betty Smith weaves Japan’s heritage into its jeans

Will AI put a stop to fashion creativity? Are brands adopting a back-to-basics approach? Can make-do mindsets reignite people’s love for sustainability? In this part of the 2025 Expert Outlook series, we speak to three experts about how people are rethinking fashion experiences for a new age.

2025 Expert Outlook on Fashion and Style

Y2K high-street darling Abercrombie and Fitch is in the midst of a subtle post-cancellation renaissance by dint of practical, high-quality clothing, inclusive sizing, and influencer word-of-mouth. Its return to form has resonated with Brits looking for comfort and nostalgia in their fashion choices.

How Abercrombie & Fitch won back Gen Y with classic fits

Chanel has jumped on the wearables bandwagon with the debut of its Première Sound Watch. Unlike other brands that are experimenting with more tech-forward approaches to wearables, the luxury house is putting a modern spin on old-school devices that could resonate with AI sceptics.

Chanel makes loud luxury play with nostalgic tech

IKEA has launched a peer-to-peer marketplace in Madrid to help customers sell their unwanted furniture directly to others. As the shift towards circularity gains momentum, brands that adopt eco-driven business models can extend their lifespan and deepen consumer trust and long-lasting loyalty.

IKEA trials peer-to-peer marketplace in circularity push

Charli XCX’s Brat has dominated the zeitgeist, slicking green across popular culture. Brat Summer will have one last hurrah at London Fashion Week as H&M and Charli XCX announce a party-fuelled collaboration. By turning Brat, both LFW and H&M are set to receive a critical boost to engagement.

Charli XCX x H&M turn London Fashion Week Brat

British charity Oxfam has partnered with Vinted to host a runway show at London Fashion Week. As people seek more sustainable choices in their daily lives, they want brands to bridge the intention-action gap by showcasing innovative ways to combat clothing waste and discover unique items.

Oxfam and Vinted revive interest in sustainable fashion

Fashion rental platform Rent The Runway is at the forefront of this sector’s revival, thanks to an influx of Gen Y and Z intrigue, smart use of AI, and a wildly successful thread of IRL events. So, what can brands learn from this thriving subsector of sustainable fashion?

How Rent The Runway renews fashionistas' eco values

Trapstar London emphasises the importance of cultural relevance and giving back to its audience, cementing itself as a key player in the global streetwear space that has a loyal following online and offline. What does its dominance say about the value of community connection and engagement?

Why Trapstar London builds on community and culture

The CFDA has announced a streaming partnership with the Rockefeller Center to showcase collections from American designers at NYFW. This move speaks to a growing desire for brands to break down barriers to accessing luxury by reviving people’s interest in local fashion stories.

CFDA aims to boosts appeal of US fashion during NYFW

eBay is bringing secondhand items to the runway with the launch of its first-ever Pre-Loved Fashion Week. As younger generations continue to turn to circular fashion to redefine luxury norms, brands can stand out by creating convenient and accessible ways for people to update their wardrobes.

eBay’s Pre-Loved Fashion Week boosts circular economy

Weight loss drugs like Ozempic are starting to impact the fashion resale market, with platforms being flooded with cast-offs in larger sizes. While this creates a tricky imbalance in terms of supply and demand, it also presents an opportunity for brands moving into the reselling space.

Ozempic is resizing the fashion resales market

Novel offline experiences help people to merge their online identities with a desire for meaningful IRL engagement. Maison Kitsuné’s pop-up in Shenzhen, with pastel colours and quirky activities, makes for ideal social media content, while also tapping into the desires of Chinese audiences.

Maison Kitsuné launches in Shenzhen with playful pop-up

British luxury carmaker Aston Martin has ventured into the world of fashion through a collaboration with BOSS. The partnership takes cues from the worlds of motorsport and premium apparel, courting existing luxury audiences who are shopping in alternative product categories.

Aston Martin x BOSS courts cross-category shoppers

Longchamp is set to host a multi-city pop-up installation to celebrate the launch of its AW24 collection. Beyond a desire to establish a community and cater to new shoppers, this move highlights the importance of creating memorable shopping experiences rooted in hyperlocal identities.

Longchamp’s multi-city tour courts experiential shoppers

Newless is a bespoke upcycling service in the UK, aiming to transform pre-loved garments into custom, fashion-forward pieces. As people seek ways to reduce their environmental impact, there is a strong desire for products that align with these values while still offering individuality and style.

Custom upcycled service courts eco-ambitious fashionistas

Netflix has partnered with Google to introduce shoppable features and ads to promote season 4 of Emily in Paris. The collaboration highlights the importance of directly engaging with superfans through innovative and exclusive offerings that help to further immerse them in their favorite worlds.

Netflix x Google offer fans immersive retail experience

After winning the hearts and wallets of British shoppers, Lidl has partnered with New York-based designer Nik Bentel to make a foray into fashion. The partnership will see the launch of a Croissant Bag, tapping into the supermarket’s cultural influence and people's interest in novel collaborations.

Lidl croissant bag taps into novel collaboration hype

Rodarte has created a capsule collection inspired by the upcoming film Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, available exclusively at Saks. Luxury and pop culture collaborations are courting younger fans who consider fandoms a key part of their identity, allowing them to signal their status and self-expression.

Saks-exclusive Rodarte collection targets Beetlejuice fans

After years of being among fashion’s major influences, streetwear has been toppled by ‘corpcore’ according to a  2024 report by The RealReal. Driven by Gen Z’s presence in the workplace and return-to-office mandates, people are adopting more formal styles, though not without personal expression.

'Corpcore' topples streetwear fashion influence

Kitsch collections of dolls, charms and trinkets are becoming the latest must-have fashion symbols. With people seeking relief from anger and hostility, toys offer a retreat into playful fun and naivety - this mechanism is being embraced by fashion houses and independent creators alike.




Toys and charms are injecting kidadult fun into fashion 

Good Squish, a small but influential London-based accessories brand, has become a fast favourite among trendy young professionals. Its unique DIY marketing and emphasis on sustainability, friendship, and nostalgia have earned it a loyal following that’s expanded from online to IRL.

How Good Squish wraps lonely Britons in public playfulness

Sinéad O’Dwyer’s SS25 showcase at Copenhagen Fashion Week has made headlines for its boundary-pushing commitment to equity on the runway. As inclusion efforts seem to have taken a backseat in the fashion world, the brand offers a blueprint on how to resonate with representation-hungry customers.

Sinéad O’Dwyer moves the needle on inclusive fashion

Fashion fans looking to sleep in style are fuelling growth in the nightwear category and driving fresh demand for premium offerings. As disconnecting from busy digital lifestyles becomes increasingly difficult, people are increasingly viewing relaxation as a symbol of luxury. 

Bedcore sees premium shoppers elevate their sleep style

Tesco is launching digital passports to provide people with more information about the lifecycle of their clothes. As audiences look for support in making sustainable choices, new technologies can support greater transparency and confidence in sustainable decision-making. 

Digital clothes passports show life cycle of fast fashion

Canadian brand Submission Shark is a leading player in the Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) world, known for its premium products and gear. The brand is now venturing into music, creating collaborations that resonate with both martial artists and music lovers, fostering a strong community in the process.

Why Submission Shark is big on culture for martial artists

Airbnb has partnered with By Rotation to offer free dress rentals with accommodation for wedding guests abroad. Amid soaring wedding costs, people are increasingly seeking out integrated, eco-friendly solutions that combine travel and fashion needs while reducing expenses.

Airbnb offers outfits to rent for destination weddings

Von Dutch, the iconic Y2K brand known for its trucker hats and tees, is making a comeback aided by Charli xcx and her viral song 'Von Dutch'. As young people turn to the past in a longing for nostalgia, Y2K fashion and recession pop have come together to tap into aesthetic desires.

Von Dutch taps Y2K interest and rides the BRAT wave

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has launched a new collaboration with accessories brand Sprayground based on works of art featured in its galleries. As Gen Zers look to remix heritage and access tradition in new ways, the bag collab offers a playful entry point to the Met's most iconic works.

Met x Sprayground launch collab inspired by classic art

Thrifting is becoming more popular in Japan, driven by the rising cost of goods, weakening yen, and shifting attitudes towards sustainability. With the fashion industry among the top polluters worldwide, brands face new challenges to meet the needs of fashionable but price- and eco-conscious youths.

Behind the sustained rise of thrifting in Japan

Fast fashion giant SHEIN will open its first pop-up in Johannesburg, offering audiences serendipitous encounters with fellow brand fans. Even as digital-first brands nurture digital communities, the power of IRL activations offers a chance for deeper engagement and brand discovery.

SHEIN hosts curated exhibition pop-up to court fans IRL

Young Britons are leading a revival of the Union Jack by incorporating the flag into their style choices. At a time when populations are becoming increasingly polarised, this trend speaks to people’s desire to interact with their heritage and national identity on a local, more personal level.

Young Britons drive resurgence of Union Jack fashion

An enduring symbol has regained popularity in the mainstream zeitgeist over the last few years. What’s behind the renaissance of the horse girl and the rise in horse girl-related symbols and products across beauty, fashion, music, and even tattooing?

What's behind the rise of the horse girl?

Southeast Asia is emerging as a key location in the luxury landscape, with global brands courting the interest of the region’s high-end clientele. Countries like Thailand and Vietnam are also surpassing well-known destinations, like Singapore, in market size as they cater to wealthy shoppers.

How are Southeast Asian shoppers changing luxury?

As much as Aussies want to cut back on fast fashion purchases, living costs make the issue unavoidable. This pattern is why circular fashion brand Citizen Wolf is using AI to cut back on the price of lasting, personalised clothes, as it lends a hand to solving Australia’s textile waste problem.

How Citizen Wolf tailors eco-fashion for Aussie budgets

After backlash from Israel for featuring Palestinian supermodel Bella Hadid in its SL 72 campaign, adidas has removed Hadid from its adverts and released a public apology. The move has stoked debate online as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to drive division.

adidas sparks backlash from Israel for Bella Hadid ad

The White Company has become one of Britain's go-to concept stores thanks to its curated minimalist aesthetic and clear messaging. By harnessing the power of off- and online marketing, it’s become the brand of choice for lifestyle shoppers who favour simplicity and a strong brand identity.

How The White Company is building on lifestyle branding

Fashion label Marc Jacobs is distinguishing itself among the chronically online by leveraging celebrity endorsements and creative promotions on Gen Z-led platforms like TikTok. It’s showcasing how a brand can evoke positive emotions online and engage people suffering from attention fatigue.

How Marc Jacobs’ influencer era inspires Gen Z’s creativity

The acceleration of trend cycles has caused the demand for fast fashion (and the synthetic textiles used throughout the industry) to skyrocket. How might concerns about the effects of microplastics on health finally shift younger generations' conflicting attitudes towards the sector?

The planet versus Gen Z’s fast fashion microplastics

Crocs taps into the fresh interest in the Twilight trilogy with a parody that draws parallels between how much hatred there is for Crocs and how much there is for the film. As the shoe that people love to hate, Crocs is flexing hyper-self-awareness and irreverent humour that appeals to Gen Z.

Crocs launch Twilight parody to appeal to Gen Z humour

Balenciaga is immersing fashion lovers in futuristic mixed reality with an app for the Apple Vision Pro. With this move, the brand is seeking to cement its status as a visionary pioneer while giving the world a taste of what a new era of so-called ‘spatial commerce’ might be like.

Balenciaga presents spatial commerce on Apple Vision Pro

The pregnancy looks of major fashion tastemakers are influencing a more daring approach to maternity style. As traditional family dynamics evolve with a new generation of parents, the archetype of the mother is being redefined in a way that balances parenthood with personhood.

Fashion it-girls tap into shifting notions of motherhood

Fashion and Style

People are becoming more conscious of the impact of rapid trend cycles

As trend cycles get shorter, people are torn between their desires to engage and their concerns about the planet. Micro-trends encourage impulsive purchases, which people often regret. So, they're looking for solutions to help them navigate this dynamic, whether using data to assess trends or buying more versatile, sustainable fashion.