As the final days of 2025 draw to a close, it's a perfect moment to pause and reflect on the past year in style. Before the inevitable deluge of New Year's resolutions and wellness trends for 2026 begins, taking stock of the fashion world's most memorable – and sometimes regrettable – moments offers a refreshing perspective. From astonishing auction results to triumphant brand comebacks and a dash of diva behaviour, here is a curated review of the year that was.
Iconic Sales & Silver Screen Style
The year delivered a powerful lesson in the enduring value of classic design. In a stunning event that left the fashion world gasping, Jane Birkin's personal, well-worn Hermès Birkin bag, created for her in 1984, was sold at a Sotheby's auction for an eye-watering £7.4 million in early July. The bag was purchased by Catherine Benier, a Parisian vintage boutique owner, who had originally acquired it at a charity auction in 2000.
On screen, a major style highlight was the wardrobe of Marion Cotillard in the fourth season of The Morning Show. Portraying Celine Dumont, her character's attire became a masterclass in quiet luxury and French chic, featuring sophisticated tailoring, clean lines, and a palette of neutral colours from high-end designers.
Brand Resurgences & Viral Villains
Closer to home, there was a heartening revival for a British icon. Observers have been cheered to see Burberry returning to its heritage strengths, with a renewed focus on exceptional outerwear and scarves signalling a promising new chapter for the brand.
Not every trend captured hearts, however. The sudden, viral explosion of Labubu charms on handbags and keychains in early spring was met with dismay by some fashion purists, proving that viral popularity and perceived taste do not always align.
Anticipation, Imitation & Diva Exits
The intersection of film and fashion created palpable excitement. Filming for The Devil Wears Prada 2 on New York streets has fuelled anticipation for its release next May. Life imitated art perfectly when Meryl Streep, in character as Miranda Priestly, made a surprise appearance at the real Dolce & Gabbana S/S 26 show in Milan, a move that even drew a rare smile from Anna Wintour.
The award for the year's most discussed diva moment, though, was widely bestowed upon Meghan Markle, who was noted for strutting out of Pierpaolo Piccioli's debut runway show for Balenciaga in Paris, sparking a flurry of commentary.
Editor's Winter Picks
Looking ahead to the new year, a few key pieces are capturing the mood. Faux fur continues to be a major trend, with a teddy-bear-soft chocolate brown bomber jacket from Mango offering a fun, cosy update. Meanwhile, statement sunglasses, like bold aviators from Prada, are recommended for injecting instant attitude beyond summer. Finally, keep an eye on the headscarf micro-trend, recently embraced by actress Dakota Johnson in New York, who paired a scarf from The Row with ballet flats and a Valentino bag.
