What went viral, who wore what, and the fashion moments that defined 2024

Fashion is not only an art but also a way of self-expression and calling for attention. And yes, it is a competition to some extent. In 2024, it was not only on the runway and red carpet, it was all over. From TikTok trends to viral moments, people were watching, and thus, people were talking, and to be quite honest, people were also mimicking.

It was not just for the clothes (which by the way were beautiful) it was for the moments. The kind that makes you stop scrolling, hit the save button, or message your friends, “Do you think I can pull this off?”

This year, fashion seemed to become fun again. It was no longer a question of following the latest trends, it was about being unique, making an impact and having value. Whether it was daring designs that took you back in time, or accessories that made you laugh, the world’s biggest fashion houses showed us why fashion is important. It is about innovation, uniqueness, and every once in a while, a piece that causes a stir and commands attention. 

From Galliano’s fairy tale-like presentation to Sabrina Carpenter’s playful minidresses—these are some of the moments that were most iconic in 2024 and made this year a memorable.

Related story: The year that was: What Google Search reveals about PH in 2024

John Galliano’s Maison Margiela artisanal show

It was pure fashion theater. Set against a moody backdrop of fog and candlelight, models wore deconstructed trench coats, corseted gowns, and shimmering fabrics that felt straight out of a gothic novel. Every look told a story, proving once again that Galliano’s vision is both timeless and unforgettable.

Zendaya in archive Mugler

Zendaya stole the spotlight at the Dune: Part Two premiere in a futuristic Thierry Mugler bodysuit from the iconic fall 1995 couture collection. The chrome design, created with aircraft bodywork specialist Jean-Pierre Delcros, showcased Mugler’s signature sleek, sci-fi aesthetic. Styled by Law Roach, Zendaya’s look was a perfect blend of fashion and film, making her a true red carpet icon.

Related story: The New York Times reveals its 2024 Most Stylish list—with some rather surprising entries
Related story: The top 10 box office films of 2024 are all sequels

Wicked press tour fashion

The Wicked press tour had Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo bringing their characters to life with every look. Ariana embraced Glinda’s sweetness in pink gowns, from a custom Giambattista Valli gown in a soft pink color at the Oscars to a whimsical Vivienne Westwood ball gown in Sydney. Cynthia embodied Elphaba’s bold edge with dramatic green and black looks, including an emerald Louis Vuitton leather dress at the Oscars and a striking Schiaparelli gown in London. Their coordinated style added a touch of Broadway magic to every red carpet.

Related story: The wickedest looks served by Ariana and Cynthia on the ‘Wicked’ press tour

Loewe’s meme-to-reality tomato clutch

It just proves that Jonathan Anderson is still the most witty designer to this date, especially with Loewe’s tomato clutch. The piece was born out of a tweet where a user compared an heirloom tomato to Loewe and Anderson decided to take it to the next level and make the tomato clutch. It was as absurd as it was and that is why the tomato clutch became an instant hit and could easily be this year’s ‘it’ bag.  

Related story: SSI Group brings Givenchy, Kenzo, Loewe, and Versace to The Mall at Nustar
Related story: Loewe’s S/S25 collection is a seamless blend of creativity and practicality

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show comeback

After years of absence, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show made its return in 2024, aiming for redemption in an industry that had largely moved on. The revamped show emphasized inclusivity, featuring models of various sizes, genders, and backgrounds. While the lingerie was chic and the production as extravagant as ever, the show sparked mixed reactions. Was it a genuine rebranding effort or a strategic move to regain relevance? Regardless, it was a major talking point in fashion circles.

Related story: Victoria’s Secret makes a comeback with icons, new faces, and a fresh take on inclusivity

Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Short N Sweet’ era

Sabrina Carpenter’s Short N Sweet tour is all about fun, flirty fashion. Styled by Jared Ellner, her outfits included custom corset bodysuits, a black lace catsuit from Patou, and sparkling two-piece sets from Ludovic de Saint Sernin. Each look matched the vibe of the show’s acts, from playful and bold to full-on glamorous. Carpenter’s style on tour perfectly captured her confident, feminine energy.

Riley Keough’s aerialist performance at Chanel

Suspended above the runway at the Grand Palais, Keough performed while models showcased the collection. The most impressive part? She revealed she only had 48 hours to rehearse. It was a breathtaking performance that blurred the line between fashion show and performance art, earning a standing ovation from the fashion elite.

Related story: Chanel takes flight with its Grand Palais return for S/S25 show

Naomi Osaka’s coquette-meets-brat US Open look

Tennis star Naomi Osaka turned heads at the US Open with an outfit that combined sporty and bratty aesthetics. Designed by Ambush x Nike, the ensemble featured a green-and-white tulle tutu layered over a sleek tennis dress, complete with oversized bows and playful accents. While she exited the tournament in the second round, her look placed her as a fashion icon. 

Charli XCX’s BRAT summer


Charli XCX’s 2024 Brat era brought bold, rave-inspired fashion back into the spotlight. Her style mixed sheer white dresses, ripped fishnets, smudged makeup, and neon green accents, all pulled from the 2000s English club scene. The album’s neon cover set the tone, inspiring fans to embrace a gritty, nostalgic look that perfectly matched her music’s edgy, chaotic vibe.

Related story: ‘Demure,’ ‘manifest,’ ‘brat’: Internet-famous words make it to Word of the Year lists

The Devil Wears Prada sequel announcement

When The Devil Wears Prada sequel was announced, the fashion world went into overdrive. Miranda Priestly’s return promises to reignite conversations about power, style, and the intersection of fashion and culture. One thing is certain: Miranda Priestly is poised to spark a whole new wave of trends.

Related story: 18 years on, how will ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ approach evolved media and fashion in sequel?
Related story: 20 movies set in New York that capture its heart

The rise of bag charms

This year, bag charms became the hottest accessory. Whether it was a charming rodeo charms from Louis Vuitton, or a whimsical Labubu trinket, these little luxuries stole the show. They weren’t just accessories, they were statements, reminding everyone that in 2024, your handbag needed accessories of its own.

Related story: How Labubu dolls became the ‘It accessory’ we never saw coming

Bella Hadid’s runway comeback

Photo by : Marc Piasecki | Getty Images

After two years away, Bella Hadid made her big comeback at Paris Fashion Week in September 2024. She walked for Saint Laurent’s Spring 2025 show, wearing an oversized black suit, white shirt, black tie, and thick glasses, a look inspired by Yves Saint Laurent’s iconic style. This was her first runway since October 2022, when she took a break to focus on her health. Her return was celebrated, proving she’s still one of the top names in fashion.

Related story: Saint Laurent’s S/S25 mixes bold power suits and modern glamour

Fashion’s Game of Thrones

The fashion world experienced a major shakeup in 2024, with creative directors making bold moves that redefined iconic brands. Alessandro Michele’s debut at Valentino dazzled with his eclectic style seamlessly blending into the brand’s romantic essence. Sarah Burton ought to bring her signature mix of tradition and modern edge to Givenchy after leaving Alexander McQueen, while Matthieu Blazy, known for his transformative work at Bottega Veneta, took over at Chanel, marking a fresh chapter for the storied house. Louise Trotter stepped in at Bottega Veneta to continue its innovative legacy, and Michael Rider was announced as the next creative director of Celine, succeeding Hedi Slimane in 2025. These changes sparked excitement across the industry, setting the tone for a new era in high fashion.

Related story: Alessandro Michele’s debut for Valentino is a stunning harmony of fashion, art, and philosophy
Related story: Chanel names Matthieu Blazy as new artistic director
Related story: Sarah Burton is Givenchy’s new creative director
Related story: Hedi Slimane out, Michael Rider in as Celine’s new artistic director 

2024 was a reminder that fashion isn’t just about clothes, it’s about the moments that make us stop, stare, and talk. From viral accessories to unforgettable red carpets and runway comebacks, this year brought the drama, the fun, and the magic. Cheers to more iconic fashion moments in 2025!

The new lifestyle.