With 2025 just around the corner, various industries stand poised for transformation as new trends emerge across the board. From personal branding to luxury consumption, the anticipated changes reflect broader societal shifts and technological advancements. Experts predict significant developments in nail design, automotive mobility, personal branding, and luxury markets, which are all set to redefine consumer experiences and business strategies.
Starting with nail trends, Business Insider recently consulted three nail experts to discuss what styles will dominate. Neutral and earthy tones are on the rise, according to Rianna Basurto, the director of marketing at Bellacures nail salon. She expressed, "People are shifting their style. While they want it to be bold, they also want it to be refined minimalism." Shades like sandy beiges, soft greens, and terracotta are expected to be the go-to colors as consumers adopt more understated looks.
While minimalism prevails, metallic designs are also making waves. "Metallics will be an overarching trend for 2025," Basurto highlighted, emphasizing their ability to complement simpler designs and provide eye-catching flair. Bright colors will remain relevant as well, ensuring those who enjoy bolder nails can continue to express themselves. Independent nail artist Lauren Ortega noted, "It's either you go bold, or you go very subtle. Expect to see lots of blues, greens, reds, oranges, magenta, and fuchsia." Press-on nails are on trend too, allowing for quick, versatile nail changes without the commitment of traditional manicures.
The experts also anticipate the rise of cat-eye polish techniques and the continuing popularity of animal prints, which will linger through next summer. On the contrary, extravagant nail designs and chunkier accents are forecasted to fall out of favor as consumers lean toward timeless, practical designs.
Turning to the automotive and mobility sector, 2025 is expected to be marked by significant transformations influenced by sustainability and technology. Growth rates for electric vehicles (EVs) are projected to soften, requiring manufacturers to shift strategies toward hybrid solutions. According to industry forecasts, the new registrations of EVs are set to reach 18.1 million globally but face challenges due to high costs and insufficient charging infrastructure. Major car manufacturers like GM, Hyundai, and Ford have reacted with caution and are adjusting their production targets accordingly.
While autonomous driving technologies gain traction, it remains clear they are not receiving full-scale acceptance yet. Self-driving taxi services, such as Uber's partnership with GM Cruise, will begin operating fully autonomous vehicles, yet the majority of sales will likely still fall under Level 2 autonomy, where human drivers remain necessary.
Consumers are showing increasing interest in the used car market, with predictions indicating it will outperform the new car sector as affordability plays a key role. Higher interest rates and the appeal of cost-effective options are driving buyers toward pre-owned vehicles, illustrating the changing consumer mindset amid economic pressures.
On the personal branding front, William Arruda discusses the importance of aligning with current trends to navigate career paths successfully. Concepts like polyworking, where individuals balance multiple jobs, will continue to gain popularity. Hybrid work settings are also likely to intensify as companies enforce stricter office attendance policies amid employee demands for flexibility.
Arruda highlights the evolution of inclusion and diversity efforts, signalling broadening focuses on individual perspectives rather than limited categories. Video content will remain pivotal for personal branding, enhancing engagement and connection during remote interactions. "Video remains critically important for personal branding," he states, with platforms emphasizing its growing role.
Technology adoption continues, with AI and data-driven personalization expected to shape workplace interactions and learning experiences. Arruda emphasizes the significance of fun being integrated back to workplace culture, proposing joyous engagement as key to successful branding and career advancement.
Meanwhile, the banking and financial services sector on the African continent is embracing IT trends projected to propel innovation. With artificial intelligence leading the way for fraud detection, security, and personalized customer experiences, companies are encouraged to invest heavily. Utilizing big data analytics enables institutions to tailor financial products, contributing to customer satisfaction.
Cloud-native banking solutions remain relevant as financial institutions seek scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiency. Digital wallets and mobile payment platforms are transforming customer experience, especially as smartphone penetration increases across Africa. Regulatory technologies are also enhancing compliance management, creating secure transaction environments.
Lastly, luxury markets across Africa are undergoing metamorphosis as consumers shift preferences toward authenticity and exclusivity. With the decline of ostentatious logo-bedecked items, brands are pivoting toward quiet luxury characterized by high-quality minimalist designs. Local brands are gaining traction, reflecting the growing demand for unique and authentic consumer experiences.
Clearly, 2025 is shaping up to be significant for various sectors. The trends outlined reflect not only consumer preferences but also necessary adaptations within industries, setting the stage for innovative growth and strategic evolution as businesses reevaluate their positions and embrace the future.