Image by Freepik
We are all familiar with the saying, what goes around comes back around. This is not just a saying as we see it playing out in the fashion industry.
You may probably remember some fashion items you bet you would never see again. But guess what? They are back in stores today to prove you wrong. That piece of clothing in your wardrobe that you’re thinking of trashing because it is no longer in vogue will make a comeback a few years from now and everyone will be clamoring to own one.
From bucket hats to the beloved styles our parents and grandparents rocked, the fashion world is always reviving long-forgotten styles. These older fashion trends are making their way back into stores, runways, and our closets again.
But did you know that some of these trends making a comeback around the world of fashion began within the Black community? Many of these fashion trends have their roots in Black culture. Blacks have consistently been at the forefront, pushing the limits of fashion and establishing trends for global fashion lovers.
Let’s take a look at four fashion trends that were made popular by the Black community and are currently making a resurgence in 2025.
Oversized Clothing
Have you noticed that oversized fashion is back in trend? The baggy blazers, jeans, tees, and more that give that laid-back look are taking over the runway and the streets. This trend became synonymous with the 1980s and 1990s hip-hop fashion. In those days, artists like Aaliyah, TLC, and Notorious B.I.G. made baggy pants and oversized jackets a fashion statement.
But what is it about oversized outfits that we love so much? Could it be the relaxed, nonchalant vibe that just makes you feel confident and comfortable no matter your shape or size?
Photo source: Facebook/ Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, Instagram/jlo
Do you like comfort but at the same time want to remain stylish? You might want to jump on the oversized fashion trend. One of the best ways to achieve this is by rocking oversized t-shirts. Tees can be stylish and also versatile, as you can pair them with your skinny jeans, bum shorts, or even gowns. You can also go for baggy trousers and denims which can be paired with a tighter-fitting white tee or a crop top. The key is to find the right balance – big enough to create a flattering silhouette without the wearer looking like they are drowning in fabric.
Bucket Hats
Bucket hats used to be associated with farmers, fishermen, and gardeners. Fast-forward to the 1980s, it was introduced to street style by the hip-hop community. Hip-hop singers including LL Cool J, Outkast, Missy Elliott, athletes, and other pop culture celebrities wore bucket hats, which were popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Rap and hip-hop fans quickly adopted it as a popular accessory because they wanted to look like their favorite celebrity.
Photo source: YouTube screenshot
Because of its incredible fashion comeback, bucket hats are now a must-have accessory for people of all ages.
Artists like Rihanna, Beyonce, and Kanye West have used this popular fashion item as part of their signature look on runways in recent years.
Whether you are out shopping, strolling, or just relaxing in the park or beach, a bucket hat is the ideal accessory to protect you from the sun while letting you show off your unique style.
Gradient Glasses
Who would have thought that gradient glasses would be making a comeback in fashion in 2025? Thanks to Black musicians, actors, and fashion icons like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, and others, these glasses gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. In the early 2000s, other celebrities embraced and showcased this trend. The likes of Beyonce and Lil Kim were known for showing up on the red carpet in their go-to pink and blue glasses.
One of the hottest fashion trends in 2024 was gradient glasses and we are seeing this continue into 2025. Such a delightful blast from the past!
Image: Freepik
As designers continue experimenting with new color combinations and frame styles, the gradient trend keeps evolving so as to stay in sync with the times.
If you want to draw attention to your eyes and add a sophisticated edge to your look, consider adding a pair of gradient glasses to your collection.
Cornrows, Braids, and Protective Styles
These hairstyles have always been a part of Black culture, deeply rooted in tradition and self-expression. Thanks to the natural hair movement, they are now experiencing a major fashion comeback, gracing red carpets and runways worldwide, and social media feeds.
Bantu knots, for example, have been embraced by the global fashion community and have gained widespread popularity as a chic, fashionable hairstyle. We have seen celebrities like Rihanna and Zendaya rock this style on the red carpet.
Photo source: Instagram/ zendaya, adele
The box braids have also made a fashionable return to the fashion trends. From red carpets to everyday street style, box braids are celebrated for their versatility and beauty. Celebrities like Janelle Monáe and Solange have showcased this trendy style, letting the world know that it remains appealing from generation to generation.
