Experts on the 2025 Met Gala Trends That will be All Over the Office
Expect to see cinched waists, pinstripes, waistcoats, structured silhouettes and bows at work this season
It’s official, power dressing is back and coming to an office near you. Following this year’s Met Gala, we have worked with the fashion team at Next as they have identified the five biggest trends they expect to see dominating suiting and tailoring this season, partnering with Saville Row menswear tailor, Alexandra Wood, to explain how you can bring these trends to life in your wardrobe.
The fashion team at Next comments on the theme of this year’s Met Gala dress code, ‘Tailored For You’:
“Many of the female attendees opted for tailored menswear looks at this year’s Gala, indicating that power suits are making a return, so expect to see a modern take on the iconic 80’s look in the coming months as women lean further into unisex style tailoring, following a year of love for the waistcoat.”
Alexandra adds, “Rule-heavy power dressing is a thing of the past. What we’re seeing now is a quieter kind of confidence, beautiful tailoring, standout textures, rich colours, and a stronger sense of self. People want to dress with intention again, but without losing comfort or personality. Women are owning tailoring in a big way, and it’s such a strong look.”
5 Trends to look out for:
- Cinched waist
According to TikTok, searches for ‘How to cinch shirt’ have increased by 1000% since the Gala whilst Ebay have reported a 209% increase in searches for ‘Cinched blazer’.
“Cinched waists are one of the easiest ways to create a refined look. Subtle shaping will make you appear put together without any effort at all. Next time you’re strapped for time and wanting an elevated look, try a co-ord with a cinched shirt or a maxi dress with a cinched waist, paired with a cropped blazer to accentuate the waist and give you a polished look.”
Alexandra adds, “We’ll see more jackets and outerwear for both men and women that taper in ever so slightly – it’s not about going full corset, but about defining shape. For women, belted tailoring or cleverly darted dresses bring that refinement. For men, a nicely tailored blazer with subtle shaping does wonders without feeling restrictive.”
- Pinstripes
According to Google, the word “pinstripe” is currently being searched at a 5-year high following the gala, with people already seeking inspiration on how to adopt them into their wardrobe. Searches for ‘Pinstripe jeans’ are also up 105% compared to this time last year.
A spokesperson at Next explains,
“A great way to adopt pinstripes into your wardrobe this summer is by investing in a pinstripe shirt that you can throw on over your outfits as a lightweight jacket. Alternatively, an oversized shirt paired with jeans and sandals works well for a smart yet casual day look.”
Alexandra adds, “Pinstripes are steeped in tradition, but many still shy away from them as they feel a little too pre-Wall Street crash, too formal and corporate for today’s more relaxed environments. However, when reimagined in a more playful, contemporary way, they can feel fresh again. Think relaxed-fit pinstripe trousers with a fine merino knit, or a softer, unstructured blazer in a bold pinstripe paired with casual tailoring. It’s all about how you wear them, less boardroom, more personality.”
- Waistcoats
One subtle but standout trend from the Met Gala was the presence of the waistcoat. Having been on trend for the last year, it doesn’t seem like waistcoats are going anywhere anytime soon – especially with the search terms ‘How to style a waistcoat’ and ‘suit with waistcoat’ both increasing by 1000% on TikTok.
“For the last year we have seen women adopting the waistcoat trend, whether in the workplace or as wedding guests, from linen in the summer, to knit in the winter. We expect to see longline waistcoats and waistcoats with high necklines to be around for a while longer, as well as ones with a tie fastening as opposed to the traditional button fastening.”
Alexandra adds, “Worn solo or layered with relaxed tailoring, they look effortlessly cool. For women, it brings a confident, slightly androgynous edge that’s still incredibly flattering. Expect to see more of this trickle into everyday wardrobes, especially in soft neutrals, sleek blacks, and beautiful textural fabrics. When done right, a waistcoat is one of the most versatile and stylish pieces you can own.”
- Structured Silhouettes
Google search interest for ‘suits’ is at a 3-year high as both men and women look to adopt sharp looks with clean lines back into their wardrobes.
Alexandra tells YCB, “After years of oversized and slouchy, people are craving a bit more definition again. Structured silhouettes help create a sense of purpose and elegance, but it’s not about stiffness – it’s about thoughtful tailoring. It could be a sharply cut jacket over relaxed trousers, or a sculpted coat over a casual base layer. It’s about contrast, not conformity.”
“The key to keeping the look feminine is balance, pair sharp suits with delicate blouses, softer textures, or subtle heels. It’s not about making it look like menswear – it’s about taking the best of that structure and making it your own. Great tailoring always enhances the wearer, not hides them.”
- Bows
Bows have been having a moment for a while, but the motif is likely to take on a new role from its current ‘cutesy’ form in fashion.
Next explain, “Bows don’t always have to be girly, but are an excellent way of softening an outfit. For those wanting to adopt power dressing without feeling too masculine, incorporating bows, whether that be a pussy-bow blouse or accessories featuring a bow, can add a feminine touch to your look.”
Alexandra says,“Bows add a sense of occasion and charm. We’ll see them in subtle ways, on women’s blouses, waist details, or even in accessories. For men, the bow tie may quietly creep back in for evening events, but worn in a cooler, less traditional way. It’s a playful detail that, when done right, doesn’t feel overdone.”
When it comes to trying out these trends for yourself, Alexandra says, “Don’t overthink it. Start with one or two elements that feel true to you, whether that’s a standout jacket, interesting shoes, or a subtle print. Individuality in dressing isn’t about being loud; it’s about being aligned. When your clothes match your energy and values, that’s when you really stand out, without even trying.”
To shop tailored looks or for workwear inspiration, visit the NEXT website.