Although nothing really changes from Dec. 31 to Jan. 1, I think it’s important that we as humans have a moment to reflect on how things are, put it behind us and decide that the future will be different. No matter what the year brings, this is what is in and out for 2025.
In: Physical media
Having everything digital might feel like the most organized and environmentally conscious way to store our lives, but physical media is a dying artform due to the rise in streaming services. People tend to immediately think of books when thinking of physical media, but if that’s not your thing, you can collect DVDs, vinyls, polaroid images, magazines and more.
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In: Alcohol alternatives
I know this is a big one, but hear me out. I love Lucky Joe’s Sidewalk Saloon coffee bombs as much as the next person, but cutting down on alcohol consumption is in this year. Mocktails, Kava, nonalcoholic replacements and, of course, marijuana make sobriety not so sobering.
In: Punk music
Younger generations tend to be more liberal and radicalized thinkers, but for a few years now, political tensions have been rising with little art to show for it. The punk movement was born out of protest during similar times, and I think we need a resurgence of mainstream punk music and attitudes.
In: Practical skills
We may or may not see the death of TikTok in 2025, but either way, it’s time to stop scrolling and start learning. Knowing how to do things like change your oil, repair clothing or cook for yourself is invaluable. As college students, most of us don’t have the money to pay people to do the things we can learn to do on our own.
In: Volunteering
On the topic of practical skills, spending time volunteering sounds like a lot more of a hassle than it is. If there is a cause one is passionate about, there’s more than likely a way to get involved, and it will not feel like work. Helping people, building community and finding opportunities through the people you meet is as rewarding as it gets.
In: Unique style
With the steady resurgence of thrifting and vintage stores, it’s time to bring back pieces and looks nobody else has. The Shein-fication of modern style has made street fashion repetitive and safe. Building a good wardrobe sustainably takes time, so start in 2025.
In: Astrology
If you’ve only been exposed to mainstream astrology that tells you all Geminis are backstabbers and Mercury retrograde is the end of the world, you might be rolling your eyes. I get it, but a real horoscope is more like checking the weather than consulting a crystal ball.
Out: Overconsumption
A new Stanley tumbler; the viral 12-step beauty routine; ruffled shorts; denim vests; fisherman aesthetic; another PlayStation console; 11.95 million Amazon orders a day — it’s too much. Sustainability should be prioritized in 2025 with a few good things that last a lifetime and can be repaired if needed.
Out: Chat GPT, artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence is becoming more integrated in our lives and more believable than ever. I’m sick of widely normalized AI art and every single website introducing an auto-generated feature that will go widely unused. Not to mention, ChatGPT is horrendous for the environment. It’s time to start writing your own essays.
Out: Letting things slide
Many people label themselves as nonconfrontational, and there’s nothing wrong with that, but it’s time to start calling people out directly in 2025. No more playing it cool out of fear of coming off as the woke friend — sometimes it is that serious.
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Out: Eating, drinking with friends
The death of the third space has made hanging out with friends too expensive. Why must we always either spend money or just stay home? Going to public libraries, parks, museums and free sober spaces is in this year.
Out: Botox under 30
The wave of people in their early to mid 20s getting botox was strong in 2024. I won’t yuck your yum if you’re pro-Juvederm, but getting botox before you have wrinkles can leave you looking older sooner and supports society’s relentless expectation of women to not age.
Out: Men saying ‘cunt’
I, for one, am happy that see you next Tuesday has been reclaimed in recent years and made its way into mainstream slang. However, I am not thrilled that men have taken this chance to reclaim the word as well. Use the thesaurus.
Out: Country, traditional aesthetic
In addition to the death of overconsumption and the ongoing moral panic of American society, I think the patriotism and Old West trend is going to die out. Obviously for some it’s a lifestyle, but I don’t think we’ll be seeing romanticization of traditional living anymore or hear as much country music as much as we have in recent years.
Reach Sophia Masia at entertainment@collegian.com or on Twitter @CSUCollegian.
