Last month, Pinterest released its annual trend forecast, a list of emerging trends poised to become the next big thing in 2025.

Among its top contenders are cherry coded, a dark, sultry red look that's permeating makeup, menus and mood boards, bringing a bold and passionate vibe; rebel floats, which channels the nostalgic Americana of having a root beer float in an old-school diner; and most prominently, the fisherman aesthetic.

What is the Fisherman Aesthetic?
According to Pinterest, the fisherman aesthetic is characterized by the effortlessly cool, laid back attitude of maritime living. A lovechild of the coastal grandma and eclectic grandpa aesthetics of 2024, this trend balances cozy comfort with utilitarian practicality, reminiscent of life at sea.

The fisherman aesthetic leans heavy into functionality without losing flair—think bucket hats, evoking traditional fishing attire; thick cable-knit sweaters that offer a classy way to keep warm in chilly coastal breezes; waterproof raincoats that provide both style and protection; and sturdy boots to complement the rugged outdoor lifestyle.

At the heart of the fisherman aesthetic is a commitment to durability, rooted in its connection to practical demands of outdoor life. The materials commonly used, such as wool and denim, are chosen not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their resilience and practicality.

Inspired by the ocean and its shores, the fisherman trend showcases a palette rich in nautical-themed shades such as camel brown, navy blue, forest green, and cream. This timeless and versatile palette strikes a balance between ruggedness and elegance, making it suitable for various occasions while celebrating a deep connection to nature.

Microtrends and the Trend Cycle
Oddly-specific microtrends are not new to 2025. 2024 saw the emergence of short-lived aesthetics such as mob wife, clean girl, pilates princess and brat summer, each briefly captivating the public before fading away.

In recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fashion trend cycle has sped up disproportionately. The rise of social media platforms like Tiktok has democratized trendsetting—when everyone has access to a wide audience, anyone has the power to influence the mainstream.

As a result, companies are forced to work quickly to capitalize on viral moments before they fade. However, with new trends cropping up left and right, it has become increasingly challenging for brands to determine the success or staying power of an emerging trend. While aesthetics such as office siren and tomato girl were mere flashes in the pan, others like clean girl and coastal grandmother have managed to sustain their momentum.

The Slowdown of Microtrends
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers have been inundated with countless microtrends on social media. However, the rapid churn of these trends seems to have slowed recently, driven by rising awareness of fashion waste and a weakened economy. Younger generations are increasingly taking to social media to condemn overconsumption rather than promote the latest aesthetics.

Though the pace of microtrends may be slowing down, the phenomenon isn't entirely gone, as evidenced by Pinterest's trend forecast for the upcoming year. In spite of this, there are signs that consumers may be gravitating towards longer-lasting themes that can be adapted to fit personal style rather than fleeting fads.

The Versatility of the Fisherman Aesthetic
Amid the emerging trends, the fisherman aesthetic stands out for its versatility and potential to enhance a capsule wardrobe. Unlike many microtrends that focus on obscure or highly specific looks, the fisherman aesthetic offers a blend of functionality and style that easily be integrated into everyday attire.

The adaptability of the fisherman aesthetic means that it could have more staying power than other fleeting trends. By encouraging consumers to build on their existing wardrobe, it highlights timeless pieces that can be adapted to seasonal changes, rather than fast fashion that lasts only a single trend cycle. With increasing awareness of sustainability, trends that can be seamlessly integrated into what people already own are more likely to stick around.

While many microtrends are often seen as temporary fads, the practicality and versatility of the fisherman aesthetic suggest it could play a significant role in the shifting fashion narrative. Although the path to eco-consciousness is long, the decline of fast fashion could mean that a rise in sustainable shopping is on the horizon.