The autumn/winter 2025 collections showcased in London were a delightful blend of nostalgia and fresh innovation, particularly on the hair and beauty front. Designers like Chet Lo and Harris Reed reimagined iconic styles from the early 2000s, combining elements that hark back to a past era while setting the stage for contemporary trends. Chet Lo’s collection prominently featured plush, crimped hairstyles reminiscent of Y2K aesthetics, while Harris Reed dazzled the audience with extravagant, oversized eyelashes that were both dramatic and playful. Elevated braids emerged across various collections, while brands such as Tolu Coker and Simone Rocha explored softer elements like wispy bangs and brightly colored brows. British Vogue highlighted these five standout beauty trends that defined the season, each echoing a different aspect of style evolution.
One of the key takeaways from the runway was the resurgence of retro crimps and curls. At Chet Lo’s show, the hairstyling team, led by Anna Cofone, embraced this nostalgic look but added a modern twist. Instead of crimping the entire head, they opted for selective sections, adding depth and a refreshing perspective to the well-loved style. This approach not only mirrored the geometric patterns of Lo’s clothing designs but also paid homage to his Chinese-American heritage. Cofone noted the influence of origami in their styling choices, aiming to create hair that appeared delicately folded. This sophisticated nod to the past exemplifies how beauty can evolve by merging old trends with new interpretations.
Meanwhile, the braids showcased by designers such as Dilara Fındıkoğlu, Labrum, and Annie’s Ibiza stole the spotlight with their intricate craftsmanship. These elevated braids were not just about traditional plaits; instead, they incorporated innovative elements that made them striking and fashion-forward. The braiding techniques were mixed with bold accessories and daring patterns, allowing each designer to give their unique spin to this classic style. It indicated a shift towards more artisanal and thoughtfully crafted hairstyles that celebrate individuality. This year, beauty was not merely an afterthought but a key element that tied the entire collection into a coherent and captivating narrative.
In contrast, the whimsical vibes at Tolu Coker’s runway brought a softer, dreamier aesthetic with wispy bangs. This trend embraced a more ethereal quality, moving away from sharper lines and dramatic cuts. The delicate nature of these fringes added a touch of gentleness to the overall look, allowing for a versatile style that could compliment various face shapes and hairstyles. Such nuances in hair can create a profound impact, as they can effortlessly shift the tone of an outfit from bold to ethereal. Coker’s choices reflect a wider trend where softness contrasts strongly with the sharper, more structured elements found in many collections this season.
Adding to this playful experimentation were the pops of color seen in brows at Simone Rocha. Colorful brows have become a statement in their own right, breaking away from traditional brow hues and inviting a sense of creativity and expression into everyday beauty. Rocha’s use of these eye-catching colors was not only about aesthetic appeal but also about empowerment through personal style. When audiences saw brightly tinted brows, they were reminded that beauty can and should be fun. It is an affirmation that self-expression through fashion and beauty allows others to step out of their comfort zones and embrace their unique identities.
Overall, London’s autumn/winter 2025 beauty trends harmoniously intertwine nostalgia with innovation, inviting everyone to celebrate their individual style while also embracing the past. Whether it’s through retro crimps reminiscent of a bygone era, bold braids infused with artisan creativity, or vibrant brows that encourage playful self-expression, the trends this season are a vivid tapestry of what it means to merge past influences with a contemporary outlook. Fashion continues to serve not just as a medium for expression but as a canvas that cultivates dialogue on identity, creativity, and personal narratives, proving there’s always room for conversation between what was and what is yet to come.