The Most Influential Fashion Icons of 2025: From Pope Leo XIV to Global Trendsetters

Their distinctive fashion choices secured them positions on The New York Times's annual style icons list.

Pope Leo XIV, the Indonesian 'aura farming' youth sensation and tennis champion Naomi Osaka's Labubu figurine were among the diverse personalities, including celebrities, athletes, and political figures, who redefined style standards this year. Their unique fashion expressions earned them coveted spots on The New York Times's compilation of 2025's most stylish individuals.

Newly elected Pope Leo XIV created an instant viral moment by complementing his traditional papal white attire with a Chicago White Sox baseball cap. From Southeast Asia emerged Rayyan Arkan Dikha, the 12-year-old Indonesian whose "aura farming" dance routines, filmed precariously on the edge of a moving boat, captivated global audiences.

At the US Open, tennis star Naomi Osaka showcased a bejewelled Labubu character designed by Kerin Rose Gold. These custom accessories, adorned with rubies and crystals, quickly became an internet phenomenon.

The New Yorker's century-old mascot, Eustace Tilley, also secured a position on the list. Celebrating the magazine's 100th anniversary, the iconic figure appeared virtually unchanged from his original 1925 introduction.

Other notable style icons made significant impressions throughout the year.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan brought his distinctive elegance to the Met Gala in a Sabyasachi creation. For his inaugural appearance, he wore a sophisticated long black Tasmanian-wool coat over a silk shirt with tailored trousers, enhanced by layered gold jewelry and a jeweled Bengal-tiger cane. His accessories included multiple gold chains featuring a prominent "K" pendant (representing "King Khan") and a choker inscribed with "SRK."

In basketball, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was recognized as the NBA's most fashionable player, continuing to dominate pre-game tunnel fashion with his distinctive pastel knits and impeccable tailoring.

Political figures also made fashion statements this year.

Claudia Sheinbaum, during her first year as Mexico's president, highlighted Indigenous fashion by consistently wearing embroidered ensembles and challenging major brands that appropriated local artisans' designs.

US First Lady Melania Trump, during President Donald Trump's second administration, adopted dramatic face-concealing hats as her signature accessory.

Girl group Katseye, following their appearance in a viral Gap denim campaign, concluded their debut year with two Grammy nominations, including best new artist. Their aesthetic draws on Y2K-inspired denim, combining low-rise jeans, crop tops, and relaxed silhouettes.

Even upscale grocer Erewhon made the list. Their 2025 celebrity-endorsed smoothies, supported by artists ranging from singer Kacey Musgraves to the Smashing Pumpkins, became the year's most discussed food-fashion collaboration.

Completing the roster were ASAP Rocky, Sabrina Carpenter, Cardi B, Jennifer Lawrence, Bad Bunny, and Paige Bueckers, each contributing to 2025's fashion landscape through bold ensembles, daring red-carpet choices, and influential streetwear moments.