2025’s Hottest Fashion Trends & Viral Tech Craze

TikTok’s AR Filters Spark a Fashion Revolution

TikTok’s viral social media scene is setting fire to 2025’s fashion trends, with augmented reality (AR) filters driving massive engagement. While specific reports of a June 7, 2025, launch for new AR fashion filters are unverified, TikTok’s history of AR innovation continues to shape how we experience style. In April 2022, TikTok launched Effect House, a platform letting creators build AR effects, including fashion filters that let users virtually try on outfits. By November 2023, TikTok expanded this with an in-app filter creation feature, allowing anyone to craft effects using over 2,000 assets, sparking a wave of user-generated fashion content. These tools have fueled viral challenges and trends, with filters like Bold Glamour (used in over 58.6 million videos) proving TikTok’s power to redefine beauty and style.

In 2025, TikTok’s fashion influence is stronger than ever. Vogue Business reports that 70% of TikTok’s 1.2 billion users are Gen Z, driving micro-trends like “cardigancore” and “brat green” that blend nostalgic vibes with bold statements. These trends, paired with AR filters, let users experiment with designer looks instantly, boosting engagement and sales for brands like Miu Miu and SKIMS. Why are these filters so hot? They’re fun, interactive, and shoppable, turning TikTok into a virtual runway. Let’s dive into the trends ruling 2025, from fashion to tech, and see why they’re blowing up

Why It’s Hot: AR Filters Fuel Fashion Hype

AR filters are more than just digital play—they’re a cultural phenomenon. According to Sensor Tower, TikTok was the most downloaded app globally in Q1 2025, with over 800 million installs, making it a powerhouse for trendsetting. Filters like the AI Mermaid filter, which saw 1.2 billion uses in a single month, show how AR drives engagement. Fashion brands are jumping in, with mermaid-themed lines launching this summer, proving filters aren’t just fun—they sell. Statista notes that TikTok’s ad revenue hit $18.5 billion in 2024, with brands leveraging AR for immersive campaigns. Influencer @sabinasocol, with 1.2 million Instagram followers, showcases how AR-inspired looks like ‘90s cute core translate into real-world style, blending minimalism with playful vibes.

Fashion Trends 2025: What’s Ruling the Runway

Cardigancore Takes Over

Forget stiff blazers—cardigans are the must-have fashion item of 2025. WhoWhatWear reports that “cardigancore” is TikTok’s love letter to versatile knits, styled buttoned-up, draped over shoulders, or layered with tanks. Vogue highlights how brands like Miu Miu and Khaite are championing this trend, with sales of cardigans spiking 45% on Net-a-Porter in Q1 2025. Why? They’re cozy, chic, and endlessly adaptable. Pair a cream cardigan with jorts for a Rachel Green-inspired look, or go bold with a bright red knit for a pop of color. Influencer @emswells (800k TikTok followers) shows how to style them with chunky sandals for effortless cool.

Brat Green: The Color of Summer

Charli XCX’s “Brat” album didn’t just dominate music—it birthed a fashion craze. Clipchamp notes that “brat green” is 2025’s defining hue, with its lime-green, Y2K-inspired vibe flooding TikTok. Hypebeast reports a 60% surge in searches for green accessories on Lyst, with brands like Nike and Shein dropping brat-green sneakers and bags. The “Apple” dance, choreographed by creator Kelley Heyer, has over 10 million videos, amplifying the trend’s reach. Try a brat-green skirt with a white tee for a bold, party-girl look. Why’s it hot? It’s rebellious, vibrant, and screams Gen Z attitude.

Double Denim: Bigger, Baggier, Better

Double denim is back, and it’s not your mom’s Canadian tuxedo. WhoWhatWear calls it the “off-duty uniform” of 2025, with loose jeans, baggy jackets, and half-unbuttoned shirts ruling TikTok. Harper’s Bazaar notes a 35% increase in denim sales at Nordstrom, driven by Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter influence. Pair oversized denim with strappy black sandals (a la The Row) for a look that’s equal parts rugged and refined. Influencer @anoukvye (500k Instagram followers) rocks this trend with a black crossbody bag for added edge. It’s hot because it’s nostalgic yet fresh, perfect for TikTok’s remix culture.

Tortoiseshell Accessories: Timeless Chic

Tortoiseshell isn’t new, but it’s dominating 2025. Elle reports that this pattern, seen in sunglasses, headbands, and claw clips, blends vintage elegance with modern flair. Highsnobiety notes a 50% uptick in tortoiseshell accessory searches on Farfetch, with Tory Burch’s jelly-inspired shoes leading the pack. Style them with a slip dress for ‘90s cute core or a tailored blazer for office siren vibes. Influencer @sofiaboman (300k TikTok followers) matches her tortoiseshell sunnies to her nails for a cohesive look. Why’s it hot? It’s versatile, luxurious, and universally flattering.

Latest Tech Gadgets: What’s Buzzing in 2025

TikTok’s Effect House Redefines AR

TikTok’s Effect House, launched in 2022, remains a game-changer in 2025. TechCrunch reports that the platform now supports over 600,000 creators globally, crafting AR filters that drive viral social media moments. The Verge notes that in-app filter creation, introduced in November 2023, lets users experiment with interactive effects like winking or smiling triggers. These tools have spurred a 70% increase in user engagement, per Socialbakers, with brands like SKIMS using AR to showcase virtual try-ons. Try creating your own filter—it’s free and fun. Why’s it hot? It makes everyone a creator, boosting TikTok’s cultural clout.

Wearable Tech: Solar-Powered Sun Hats

Tech meets fashion with solar-powered sun hats, a viral TikTok product. Jingsourcing reports these hats, with built-in fans, hit 2.1 million views in a single demo video, selling for $30 with a sourcing cost under $5. GQ calls them the “best Father’s Day gift,” with a 40% sales spike on TikTok Shop. Perfect for summer festivals or beach days, they’re practical and trendy. Why’s it hot? They blend sustainability with style, appealing to eco-conscious Gen Z.

Smart Swim Goggles with Earplugs

Pool season got a tech upgrade. Jingsourcing highlights swim goggles with built-in earplugs, offering UV resistance and a wide field of vision for $20. A TikTok demo racked up 40k likes, driving a 25% sales increase on Amazon in Q2 2025. Influencer @wavewyld (200k TikTok followers) showcased their ease of use, sparking a trend among fitness creators. Why’s it hot? They’re affordable, functional, and perfect for TikTok’s active audience.

Viral Social Media Trends: TikTok’s Cultural Impact

The “Apple” Dance Craze

Charli XCX’s “Apple” dance, created by Kelley Heyer, is inescapable in 2025. Clipchamp reports over 10 million videos using the choreography, with brands like RyanAir jumping in for viral clout. The simple, high-energy moves pair perfectly with brat-green outfits, making it a fashion and dance hybrid. Why’s it hot? It’s catchy, shareable, and ties into the Y2K revival.

Storytelling Revival

TikTok’s storytelling trend is back with a vengeance. NapoleonCat notes that creators are posting narrative-driven videos, from chaotic travel tales to heartfelt confessions, using audios like “Easy” by Commodores. These videos have garnered 500 million views collectively, per SimilarWeb, with influencers like @jera.bean (150k TikTok followers) sharing tutorials to join the trend. Why’s it hot? It’s emotional, relatable, and keeps users hooked.

Cucumber Salad Challenge

Food meets fashion in TikTok’s cucumber salad challenge, started by creator Logan Moffitt. Clipchamp reports millions of videos showing users slicing cucumbers and adding condiments like soy sauce for quick, aesthetic meals. The trend’s visual appeal has boosted deli container sales by 30% on TikTok Shop, per Forbes. Why’s it hot? It’s simple, creative, and ties into TikTok’s love for quick hacks.

Must-Have Fashion: Building Your 2025 Wardrobe

Strappy Black Sandals

Elle calls strappy black sandals the “true icons” of 2025, with The Row and Amina Muaddi reimagining them in delicate and bold designs. Nordstrom reports a 20% sales increase, driven by TikTok outfit videos from creators like @emmaleger (400k followers). Pair them with denim or a polka-dot dress for versatility. Why’s it hot? They’re timeless yet trendy, perfect for any occasion.

Red Accents

Red is the color to wear in 2025. WhoWhatWear notes a 50% surge in red accessory searches, from socks to jumpers, building on 2023’s red tights trend. Harper’s Bazaar highlights how brands like Zara are dropping red bags to meet demand. Influencer @mv.tiangue (250k TikTok followers) styles red socks with loafers for a bold twist. Why’s it hot? It’s vibrant, confident, and easy to integrate.

Jorts: Casual Cool

Jorts are no longer just casual—they’re fashion-forward. Elle reports that these knee-length denim shorts, inspired by ‘90s icons like Rachel Green, are a TikTok staple, with a 40% sales bump at H&M. Style them with a cardigan and tortoiseshell sunnies for a complete look. Why’s it hot? They’re comfy, nostalgic, and endlessly versatile.

Trending Apps: Beyond TikTok

Red Note: The New Contender

With a potential TikTok ban looming in the U.S. by January 18, 2025, users are flocking to Red Note, per Elle. App Annie reports 10 million downloads in Q1 2025, with fashion creators testing its AR capabilities. While it’s too early to crown it TikTok’s successor, its rise shows users crave platforms that blend style and interactivity. Why’s it hot? It’s fresh, untested, and could reshape fashion trends.

CapCut: Editing Made Easy

CapCut’s templates are fueling TikTok’s viral moments. NapoleonCat notes a 2024 recap template that hit 5 million uses, perfect for showcasing fashion hauls. Sensor Tower reports CapCut’s downloads reached 1 billion globally by Q2 2025, making it a go-to for creators. Why’s it hot? It simplifies editing, letting anyone create polished content.

Popular Culture: What’s Shaping 2025

‘90s Cute Core

The ‘90s are back, and TikTok’s leading the charge. Elle describes “’90s cute core” as a mindset—confident, effortless, and cheeky—with slip dresses and low-rise trousers trending. Highsnobiety notes a 30% increase in vintage shop sales, driven by TikTok hauls. Influencer @iamnkirote (600k Instagram followers) pairs jelly shoes with cardigans for the ultimate throwback. Why’s it hot? It’s nostalgic, playful, and resonates with Gen Z.

Bridgerton Photo Filter

Netflix’s Bridgerton season three filter is a TikTok hit, with 2 million uses by June 2024, per Clipchamp. Users transform into Regency-era characters, pairing the filter with cardigancore looks for a modern twist. Why’s it hot? It blends pop culture with fashion, making history chic.

Why It’s Hot: Data-Driven Trend Drivers

Trends in 2025 thrive on interactivity and nostalgia. Statista reports that 80% of Gen Z prefer platforms with user-generated content, explaining TikTok’s dominance. AR filters boost engagement by 70%, per Socialbakers, as they let users play with style in real time. Fashion sales are soaring—Lyst notes an 89% increase in Miu Miu’s Q1 2025 retail sales, thanks to TikTok’s influence. Meanwhile, tech gadgets like solar-powered hats tap into sustainability, a key concern for 65% of Gen Z, per Nielsen. These trends aren’t just hot—they’re reshaping how we shop, create, and connect.

How to Jump on These Trends

Want to rock 2025’s vibe? Start with a brat-green cardigan and strappy sandals for a TikTok-ready look. Download Effect House to create your own AR filter—maybe a virtual try-on for your favorite brand. Try the cucumber salad challenge for a fun, low-effort video, or use CapCut’s recap template to showcase your year’s best outfits. Follow influencers like @sabinasocol or @jera.bean for inspo, and keep an eye on Red Note for the next big platform. The key? Be bold, experiment, and have fun.

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