In her recent article, Jess Cartner-Morley introduces “Boom Boom” as 2025’s defining fashion vibe—more than a trend, it’s a cultural shift manifesting in style, attitude, and lifestyle.
Contrasting the minimalist “quiet luxury” aesthetic of recent years, Boom Boom champions extravagant, attention-grabbing fashion. Think big silhouettes with sharp shoulders, emphasized waists and busts, fur (real or faux), gold watches, and bold makeup.
The style blends masculine and feminine tropes for evening looks and power dressing by day. Symbolic of cultural turbulence akin to climate upheaval, Boom Boom embodies boldness in bright jewel tones, lace over basics, and statement accessories, like movie-star shades and slogan caps. Its influence is seen in popular culture—from bold TV characters to the resurgence of maximalist menswear jewelry. Not merely a reactionary style, Boom Boom engages a broader social consciousness and reflects shared sentiments of disruption and transformation. Coined by trend forecaster Sean Monahan, “Boom Boom” is fun to say—and, more importantly, fun to wear.
This maximalist movement is evident across recent fashion events. At New York Fashion Week, designers like Christian Siriano and Collina Strada showcased theatrical silhouettes and bold styles, embracing the Boom Boom ethos. Faux fur, exaggerated shoulders, and expressive silhouettes dominated the runways, reflecting a world where luxury and ostentation are in vogue.
Moreover, the trend resonates with a broader cultural shift toward conspicuous consumption amid economic disparity, tapping into nostalgia and a rejection of “woke” casual norms post-pandemic. Boom Boom represents people dressing aspirationally for the wealth they wish they had, rather than their actual financial situation.
In essence, Boom Boom is not just about fashion; it’s a reflection of our times—a bold, expressive response to cultural and societal shifts, inviting individuals to embrace extravagance and make a statement through their style.
