From Labubu dolls to Prada Kolhapuris: 5 viral fashion moments of 2025 that broke the internet

The fashion scene this year felt a bit like a rollercoaster; some trends had momentum, while others left us disoriented. Amid a chaotic season filled with avant-garde couture and chic aesthetics, one moment raised existential questions and spurred discussion. So, here’s a recap of the biggest and most viral fashion moments that made headlines across the globe in 2025.

2025 saw fashion’s most viral new accessory: the Labubu doll. Bag charms like Coach’s cherry felt neglected with the rise of Labubu dolls, which gained popularity after BLACKPINK member Lisa sported one. These creepy-looking dolls were seen hanging around expensive tote bags all year; many even carried them with their Birkins.
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Every fashionista felt a deep sinking feeling on September 4, when the fashion house announced the passing of its founder. This moment marked a profound period of reflection for the fashion industry and its icons. Leaving a legacy behind, the late designer was featured on every magazine cover and in headlines. The Maison’s September show in Milan also paid tribute to the eponymous designer with a piano piece by Ludovico Einaudi.
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The ‘Euphoria’ star is once again embroiled in controversy for her role in a contentious ad campaign with American Eagle Outfitters. The ad shows the actress wearing American Eagle jeans and saying in a breathy voiceover, “Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair colour, personality, and even eye colour.” She pauses and then says, “My jeans are blue.” Many commentators argued that the campaign functions as a conservative dog whistle supporting white supremacy and genetics.
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Italian fashion house Prada faced backlash this year after unveiling sandals in their 2026 men’s summer/spring collection that resembled Maharashtra’s Kolhapuri chappals. These sandals received their GI tag in the year 2019, when Prada didn’t even give any inspirational credit and labelled them ‘leather sandals’ for over Rs 1.2 lakh on their official website. The brand later admitted that their products were heavily influenced by traditional Kolhapuris and even visited the factories in Maharashtra that same month.
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Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan made his much-anticipated Met Gala debut this year in a regal Sabyasachi ensemble, his look included a large ‘K’ pendant and a Bengal tiger head cane, embracing the theme of the year. Diljit Dosanjh brought Punjabi culture to the international stage in a customised Prabal Gurung outfit featuring Gurmukhi script, paired with a jewel-studded turban and a ceremonial sword. However, controversy sparked when luxury jeweller Cartier denied Diljit’s team’s request to borrow the legendary Patiala Necklace, claiming it was ‘sealed in a museum display’, when the same piece was worn by Emma Chamberlain back in 2022.
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