It's clear to anyone paying attention that one of the dominant aesthetics of early 2025 is "castlecore."
Castlecore, also called medieval modern or future medieval, is a design trend that combines medieval aesthetics like chainmail and stone architecture. We saw hints of this trend in 2018 when Zendaya wore a Joan of Arc-inspired armor look at the Met Gala. But now, castlecore is everywhere.
If you search for “chainmail” on TikTok or Instagram, you'll find thousands of DIY tutorials where users are showing how to create their own wearable chainmail! from tops and bonnets to accessories. According to Pinterest, "medieval" is having a "major moment" this year.
Castlecore may just be another fleeting trend, maybe even something to match our escapist fantasies. But whether we’re donning chainmail accessories or escaping into romance novels in a world that increasingly resembles the Middle Ages, make sure you’re having fun with it!