Feminine Opulence

After several seasons of stealth wealth minimalism, designers not only fully embraced the more is more aesthetic for Spring 2025, but also the overtly feminine. It all felt a bit Rococo, which, if you remember your college art history survey class, is the art and architectural movement that began in France during the first half of the 18th century and was recognized for its whimsical decoration, asymmetry, and pastel hues. Rococo’s overtly ornamental and theatrical style was associated with the feminine – meaning it was considered superficial, degenerate and illogical, especially when compared to the era’s Protestant masculine values of order, refinement and seriousness (what a surprise).

Which is why perhaps the V&A refers to Rococo as the most rebellious of design styles, and why it has been going through a reexamination recently and gaining traction in art circles. And that interest may be what sparked the opulent and optimistic in fashion designers for Spring 2025. They embraced dramatic shapes, volumes and curves with embellishments including lace, bows, feathers, ruffles, floral prints, panniers, and metallic accents – and sometimes all in one look. This version of luxe maximalism keeps dressing firmly focused on feminine power and mystique.