7 Chapisha na Miundo Mitindo ya Hisa katika A/W 2025

Autumn 2025 is set to arrive with a new list of design ideas that perfectly match the season. As usual, the days will get shorter, allowing many people to reach for their warmest sweaters and blankets. But here’s the best part: Now is a great time for businesses to get ahead of the competition by updating their collections early!

This season is packed with rich, layered, thoughtful print and pattern trends that look amazing. But that’s not all. They also tell stories, evoke emotions, and help shoppers feel more connected to their purchases—a big deal for modern buyers.

So, whether a business is running a boutique or an online store creating its next collection, this article will explore seven key trends (according to WGSN forecasts) that will help build an eye-catching yet meaningful lineup for A/W 2025.

Orodha ya Yaliyomo
Prints and patterns for A/W 2025: 7 trends worth considering
    1. Contrasting stripes
    2. Ufundi wa tabaka
    3. Small scallops
    4. For the love of leftovers
    5. Ornamental rural
    6. Folk tales
    7. Ornate retro
Kuzungusha

Prints and patterns for A/W 2025: 7 trends worth considering

1. Contrasting stripes

Stripes are always in style, but they’re getting a fresh update this season. This trend will see bold contrasts, surprising combinations, and designs that break the usual fashion rules. The best part? These aren’t the usual ordinary striped fashion trends.

Designers experiment with different sizes, directions, and textures to make contrasting stripes pop. For example, Mungo’s bring flat-weave towels from South Africa, or Homehagen’s cabana-stripe duvets show how this trend can add energy and excitement to any collection.

How retailers can action this trend

• Consider adding uneven stripe patterns to products. It’s a great way to keep things modern and fun.

• Retailers can also combine thick and thin stripes for those consumers who love depth and movement.

• Another angle businesses can take is refreshing classic patterns like checks or gingham with softer shades or darker tones for a bold, graphic look.

2. Ufundi wa tabaka

Prints and patterns don’t always have to be flat; this trend proves it. Layered craft focuses on creating designs that add the feeling of touch to their eye-catching looks. The goal here is to draw people in and then invite them to feel and appreciate the skill behind each layer.

Many consumers notice this trend because of designers like Irthi Contemporary Crafts. The brand mixes techniques like Emirati weaving and marquetry to craft beautiful home items that appease the eyes and sense of touch. Cassandra Smith’s textiles follow a similar approach by blending weaving and felting to show how layering can make designs deeper and more elegant.

How retailers can action this trend

• Working with local artisans is one way to make the most of Layered Craft. They can create pieces that feel personal and special.

• Retailers can also use open-work techniques, like embroidered fabrics or carved wood, to add texture and dimension to their designs.

• They can also keep their designs simple. Consider florals, soft curves, or abstract patterns for a warm and inviting look.

3. Small scallops

Sometimes, it’s the small details that stand out the most. Small scallops are a great example—they add a touch of charm to everyday items, making them feel different in a good way instead of plain.

The best part is that designers are already getting creative with scallops, like Andrés Gutiérrez’s backlit wooden panels or De Veley Atelier’s hand-painted scalloped frames. These little accents introduce a playful, elegant vibe without being too much.

How retailers can action this trend

• Retailers can add scalloped edges to cushions, tablecloths, or lampshades for a simple, stylish upgrade.

• Business buyers can also offer scalloped wallpaper borders as an easy, affordable way for customers to add character to their spaces.

• They should also keep the design neat and rhythmic to match modern tastes while maintaining a polished look.

4. For the love of leftovers

Sustainability has evolved from being optional to something essential. “For the Love of Leftovers” celebrates this shift by turning waste into creative, one-of-a-kind designs. This trend proves that “leftovers” can be beautiful, and consumers love them.

Hoops & Horticulture is one brand that’s maximizing this trend. It turns basketballs into unique home items. Also, Japanese artist Eri Kato transforms cardboard into amazing mini collages, while Aries (another sustainability-focused brand) uses deadstock fabric to create rugs with Moroccan artisans.

How retailers can action this trend

• The first thing businesses should do is review their product process and determine whether they can repurpose any waste materials.

• Retailers should also embrace imperfections in their designs as a feature, not a flaw.

• Lastly, consider offering repair kits or aftercare services to help customers make the products last longer.

5. Ornamental rural

Rustic charm never goes out of style; this trend takes it up a notch. Ornamental Rural mixes cozy, familiar designs with fresh, handcrafted details that feel new and inviting. However, leveraging this trend will require rethinking rural looks creatively to appeal to consumers.

For instance, Studio Courtenay turns vintage fabrics into stylish notebook covers, while Magniberg adds a modern twist to lace bedding. Even checkerboard patterns get a refresh with handcrafted, Mexican talavera-inspired tiles.

How retailers can action this trend

• Consider giving classic checkerboards a handmade touch using block-printed or painted designs.

• Try a different approach with bedding, tablecloths, or other textiles by adding cross-stitch or lace details—they give a nostalgic yet updated feel.

• Use warm, natural colors like muted greens, browns, and creams to capture that cozy cabin vibe.

6. Folk tales

Folk-inspired designs are trending, and it’s easy to see why. They’re bold, colorful, and deeply rooted in tradition—yet they feel fresh and energetic. The best thing about this trend is that it celebrates culture in a big way.

For example, Oshana works with refugee artisans in Lebanon to blend traditional motifs in Key Colors into modern designs. Similarly, Freedom Tree reimagines African-inspired Madras checks with bright, surprising colors.

How retailers can action this trend

• This trend may require partnering with artisans, especially if retailers want to create authentic, culturally inspired designs.

• Alternatively, businesses can refresh traditional patterns with vibrant, unexpected color combinations.

• Use block printing or embroidery to add a unique, handmade touch.

7. Ornate retro

Retro designs always have a way of grabbing attention. This season won’t be different, as they’re making a comeback with a glamorous twist. Ornate Retro takes inspiration from the past but feels bold, chic, and perfect for today’s world.

Designers like Nigerian-born Duro Olowu blend heritage with a fresh perspective on patterns and colors. Additionally, Brera Studio’s rugs, inspired by archaeology, show how historical influences can look sleek and modern.

How retailers can action this trend

• Stock standout items like vases, rugs, or cushions with intricate, eye-catching retro patterns.

• Mix antique-inspired designs with modern materials for a fresh, unexpected look.

• Share the story behind each piece. Customers love knowing the history and meaning behind unique designs.

Kuzungusha

This season’s pattern and print trends go beyond looks to connect with customers on an emotional level. They tell stories, spark nostalgia, and highlight craftsmanship. Focusing on these trends will help retailers stay up-to-date while offering customers products that feel meaningful, unique, and part of something larger.