What StockX’s Big Facts Report Tells Us About Fashion in 2025

Welcome to 2025, where fashion is louder, bolder, and unapologetically “weird.” According to StockX’s latest Big Facts: Current Culture Index, the marketplace hit new highs in 2024, with over 60 million lifetime trades and 20 million buyers worldwide. But the real story lies in what people are buying—and it’s clear that individuality is the new trend. From ugly shoes to social media-fueled fashion movements, here’s how style is shaping up this year.

The Ugly Shoe Era Is Officially Here

The New Balance 1906 loafer, Instagram @crossoverconceptstore

Simone Rocha X Crocs, Instagram @simonerocha_

MSCHF boots, Instagram @shiftminimal

Goodbye, basic sneakers; hello, “ugly” shoes. Last year, unconventional footwear dominated the conversation, with viral hits like New Balance’s 1906 loafer and Simone Rocha x Crocs’ spiked platform clogs turning heads (and filling carts). Let’s not forget Asics’ Mary Jane-inspired sneaker collab with Cecile Hansen or MSCHF’s big red cartoon boots, which lived rent-free in our social feeds for nearly two years.

In 2025, this trend shows no signs of slowing. Consumers are actively seeking out “statement” pieces that scream individuality, and brands are rising to the challenge. Balenciaga’s leaked collab with Scholl is already making waves as the year’s next big “weirdo” shoe. Why? Because Gen Z and millennials are over the same-same—they want footwear that doubles as art and speaks to their personality.

Sneakers Are Still King, But With New Players

ANTA KAI 1, Instagram @sneakerpolitics

Hoka Stinson EVO OG, Instagram @hoka

Saucony Triumph 22, Instagram @saucony

The big five—Nike, Jordan, Adidas, Asics, and New Balance—continue to dominate, thanks to clever marketing and celebrity partnerships. But Chinese sportswear brands Anta and Li-Ning are emerging as serious competitors. With standout releases like the Kai 1, Kyrie Irving’s signature shoe, Anta saw an eye-popping 1,901% growth on StockX last year.

Other brands are also carving out their space. Hoka, On, Salomon, and Saucony have built cult followings by prioritizing comfort and innovation. Saucony, in particular, leaned into collaborations with creatives like Jae Tips and Bodega to land among StockX’s top five fastest-growing sneaker brands for the first time. Even Puma and Vans are upping their game with bold silhouettes like the Speedcat and Knu School. It’s clear that in 2025, the sneaker world isn’t just about who sells the most—it’s about who can stand out.

Streetwear Isn’t Dead; It’s Reinventing Itself

Instagram @poloralphlauren

Instagram @denimtears

Reports of streetwear’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. Instead, it’s evolving. Last year, TikTok crowned Polo Ralph Lauren the king of prep with its viral Ralphcore trend, boosting the brand’s StockX sales by 600%. Younger shoppers are redefining classic aesthetics, mixing crisp button-ups with skate shoes and hoodies for an effortlessly cool vibe.

New brands like Hellstar and Denim Tears are also having a moment, thanks to limited drops and designs that nod to streetwear’s roots—think bold graphics and loud prints. Even punk-inspired label Revenge is making waves, proving that edgy, rebellious fashion still has a place in today’s closets.

Accessories Are Having a Major Moment

Sabrina Carpenter for Versace Biggies, Instagram @versace

Stanley X Olivia Rodrigo, Instagram @stanley_europe

Supreme 30 Years: 1994-2024 Book, Instagram @studio191ny

It’s not just clothes and shoes—accessories are where the magic happens. Last year, Stanley tumblers became an unexpected fashion must-have, thanks to collabs with Olivia Rodrigo and LoveShackFancy. Who knew drinkware could be so chic? Meanwhile, Versace’s Biggie sunglasses, inspired by The Notorious B.I.G., brought serious Y2K vibes and over 1,000% growth in sales.

Of course, Supreme continues to reign supreme (pun intended). From its collectible 30th Anniversary book to its SS24 shoulder bags, the brand knows how to keep its loyal fanbase engaged. Accessories are no longer afterthoughts—they’re essential for completing a look, and brands are delivering pieces that feel personal, functional, and iconic all at once.

What This All Means for 2025

Fashion in 2025 is all about breaking the mold. Consumers, especially younger ones, are bored of cookie-cutter styles and are hunting for pieces that feel fresh, unexpected, and one-of-a-kind. From the rise of the ugly shoe to streetwear’s evolution and accessories that double as status symbols, individuality is at the forefront of every purchase.

So, whether you’re rocking Scholl’s wildest creation or sipping from a LoveShackFancy x Stanley tumbler, this year’s fashion mantra is simple: Wear what feels you—and don’t be afraid to stand out.