Is The ‘Soft’ Trend S/S25’s Strongest Look?

What started as a TikTok aesthetic – all brogues, blush cheeks, bows, and Lana Del Ray filters – has quietly become fashion’s loudest statement this summer

Historically speaking, fashion relies on a certain set of design codes to indicate female power and strength – sharp tailoring, defiant colour, and imposing silhouettes. To be powerful is to be seen, to be loud, to command. However, in a world that continues to demand that women to be bold and unbreakable, softness is becoming a rebellion. The S/S25 collections have brought a fresh take on softness: an embrace of emotion, nostalgia, and hyper-femininity, toughened up around the edges. This time, softness is power, reimagined.

This isn’t just another return to bows and lace. There’s a reason why this romantic energy feels louder this time around, because of how designers are styling these design codes – juxtaposing delicate fabrics with statement shoes, hardware accents, and unapologetic confidence. The ‘soft’ aesthetic isn’t about being delicate for the sake of it, it’s about reclaiming tenderness, and making it a little more… practical. Sequins? Sure. Ruffles? Why not. Just be sure to pair them with a sturdy pair of boots, loafers or brogues, à la Louis Vuitton.

Designers such as Simone Rocha are always at the forefront of any romantic revolution on the runways, and this season she has layered femininity with fierceness. Romance has always been Rocha’s realm, but this collection adds new muscle to the softness. Yes, the flounces, floral motifs and frothy fabrics are still there – but styled with sturdy black brogues and knee high socks.

Cecilie Bahnsen, also known for her signature romanticism, similarly offered a flurry of sheer organza dresses paired with Asics trainers, covered in a clever camouflage-esque print composed of black and khaki flowers. Erdem also chose sheer stockings and buckled loafers to toughen up its swathes of pale silk printed with pretty blooms; the collection focused on loose fitting, billowing dresses paired with thick-soled shoes bearing chunky leather tassels.

How to recreate this tough-girl soft styling off the runway? If you aren’t brave enough to to attempt knee-high stockings, opt for a pair of ankle socks instead. Instead of erring towards elegant, ladylike bags, choose a more utilitarian style to create contrast. The devil is in the details.

All imagery courtesy of Jason Lloyd Evans at Catwalkpix