In 2025, the fashion world has witnessed the resurgence of “Boom Boom Culture,” a trend that embraces opulence, boldness, and a touch of sleaze, reminiscent of late 1980s New York. This aesthetic is characterized by extravagant fashion choices, including luxurious furs, exaggerated shoulders, and expressive silhouettes, marking a departure from the minimalist styles that previously dominated.
Origins of Boom Boom Culture
The term “Boom Boom” was introduced by trend forecaster Sean Monahan to describe a shift towards more flamboyant and decadent fashion. This movement reflects a societal craving for excess and glamour, drawing inspiration from the ostentatious styles of the 1980s. Monahan notes that “Boom Boom” represents a world where “male-coded values… have come roaring back,” with men donning suits and loafers, and women embracing expressive, oversized silhouettes and fur.
Key Elements of Boom Boom Fashion
Central to Boom Boom Culture are several defining features:
Luxurious Furs: Both real and faux furs make a statement, adding a layer of opulence and controversy to ensembles.
Exaggerated Shoulders: A revival of the power-dressing trend, featuring broad, padded shoulders that convey strength and confidence.
Expressive Silhouettes: Bold designs with oversized and attention-grabbing shapes dominate, reflecting a departure from understated styles.
Influence of 1980s New York
Boom Boom Culture harks back to the flamboyant fashion scene of late 1980s New York, a period marked by bold designs and a celebration of excess. Designers like Claude Montana and Thierry Mugler were pioneers of this era, known for their dramatic silhouettes and innovative use of materials. Montana, for instance, was renowned for his broad-shouldered designs and luxurious fabrics, which have influenced today’s Boom Boom aesthetic.
Modern Interpretations on the Runway
Contemporary designers have embraced Boom Boom elements in their recent collections. The Autumn/Winter 2025 shows featured a notable return of the shoulder pad, with designers such as Veronica Leoni at Calvin Klein and Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent showcasing bold, angular silhouettes. These modern interpretations offer a refined take on the exaggerated styles of the past.
Celebrity Endorsements and Pop Culture
The resurgence of Boom Boom Culture has been amplified by celebrities and influencers who have adopted its bold aesthetic. Figures like Doechii and Chappell Roan have been spotted in avant-garde tailoring and glitzy ensembles, embodying the trend’s emphasis on extravagance and luxury.
Impact on Consumer Behavior
This shift towards opulence has influenced consumer behavior, with a growing interest in vintage and second-hand luxury items. Platforms like Depop have reported increased searches for “indie sleaze,” a style closely associated with Boom Boom fashion. This trend reflects a desire for unique, statement pieces that exude a sense of nostalgia and boldness.
Controversies Surrounding the Trend
Despite its popularity, Boom Boom Culture has not been without controversy. The inclusion of real fur in fashion has sparked debates about ethics and sustainability. Critics argue that the trend’s emphasis on luxury and excess may overshadow the industry’s efforts towards more responsible practices.
Comparisons to Other Fashion Movements
Boom Boom Culture stands in stark contrast to previous minimalist trends like “quiet luxury.” While quiet luxury focused on understated elegance and subtle displays of wealth, Boom Boom embraces overt opulence and flamboyance, signaling a broader cultural shift towards more expressive forms of self-presentation.
Future Outlook of Boom Boom Culture
As fashion continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how long Boom Boom Culture will dominate the scene. Its emphasis on boldness and excess offers a counterpoint to minimalist aesthetics, suggesting that fashion cycles may continue to oscillate between these extremes. Designers and consumers alike will play a role in determining the longevity of this trend.
Conclusion
Boom Boom Culture’s revival in 2025 highlights fashion’s cyclical nature and its ability to reflect broader societal shifts. By embracing elements of 1980s opulence, this trend offers a bold statement on individuality and self-expression, challenging previous norms and inviting a re-examination of what it means to be fashionable in contemporary society.
