As spring peaks and summer approaches, fashion in the UK this May is a celebration of soft structure, ease, and elevated comfort. From buttery pastels to utilitarian tailoring, this month’s trends speak to the modern wardrobe: versatile, refined, and ready for the season ahead.
Women’s Fashion Trends – May 2025
1. Butter Yellow: Spring’s Soft Power Colour
A subtle shift from cooler neutrals, butter yellow is dominating this season. Seen across dresses, co-ords, and outerwear, it brings warmth and elegance to even the simplest silhouette.
2. The 'Shidi' Dress: Shirt Meets Midi
Part shirt, part midi dress—this refined hybrid blends structure with feminine flow. Belted styles in linen or cotton poplin are proving popular for day-to-evening dressing.
3. Sheer Fabrics & Light Layering
Sheer overlays, organza shirts, and whisper-light skirts offer texture and elegance without weight. This trend is all about airy sophistication.
4. Balletcore Footwear
From satin lace-up flats to ballet sneaker hybrids, this trend adds delicacy and practicality in equal measure. A go-to for styling with soft separates.
5. Luxe Athleisure
Athleisure gets an upgrade with ballet-inspired tops, pleated joggers, and ribbed sets in elevated fabrics—perfect for May’s transitional weather.
Men’s Fashion Trends – May 2025
1. Relaxed Tailoring with Utility Details
Lighter materials, functional details and slightly oversized silhouettes define this season’s suiting. Sage green and oat tones are front-runners.
2. Minimalist 90s Revival
Boxy tees, clean collars, and slimline trousers in neutral palettes reflect the return of stripped-back menswear—cool, classic, and wearable.
3. Statement Outerwear
Oversized trench coats and lightweight technical jackets offer versatility without sacrificing style. Perfect for layering on cooler days.
4. Sporty Footwear
Retro runners and technical sandals are trending. Soft soles, tonal palettes, and pops of colour make these ideal for springtime city walks.
5. Transitional Knitwear
Layer-friendly knits, such as short-sleeved jumpers and open-stitch pullovers, are ideal for the unpredictable UK forecast. Smart yet relaxed.
Final Thoughts
May 2025 brings a fresh perspective on modern dressing. Women’s fashion blends softness with structure, while menswear sees a return to function-led minimalism. From colour choices to silhouettes, comfort and refinement remain the common thread.