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Fashion Trends Australia

Colour & Pattern Trends in Fashion Photography this Summer 2025

Hi! I’m Matthew Cornell from Matthew Cornell Photography, and as summer 2025 winds down here in Australia and we brace for Autumn’s mix of unseasonal heat and cooling breezes, we’ve waded through a dazzling array of colour and pattern trends shaping the season’s fashion photography.

For luxury brands, stylists, manufacturers, and growing labels, staying ahead of these trends is crucial—not just for aesthetic appeal, but for powerful storytelling and brand positioning.

With only a few weeks left of summer, now is the perfect time to reflect on what’s been trending and start setting our sights on the transition into autumn fashion. Let’s dive into the colours and patterns dominating fashion photography and how brands can leverage them for maximum impact.

The Colours of Summer 2025: Soft Pastels, Vibrant Florals, and Timeless Minimalist Whites

Pastels with a Fresh Perspective

Pastels have always had a soft, romantic appeal, but this summer, they’ve been modernised. We’ve seen powder blues, peachy pinks, and mint greens used in bold, oversized silhouettes, rather than just in delicate, floaty pieces. The key has been pairing pastels with structured tailoring—think power suits in soft lilac or monochrome, tonal pastels layered to create sophisticated depth.

For fashion photography, pastels provide a dreamy, ethereal look, perfect for brands that want to evoke elegance, sophistication, and a touch of nostalgia. Pastels also transition beautifully into autumn when paired with earthy neutrals like tan, burnt orange, and olive.

Vibrant, Bold Florals

Florals have been anything but delicate this summer. Instead of subtle prints, we’ve seen bold, oversized florals making a statement. Think vibrant hibiscus reds, electric pinks, and tropical greens splashed across flowing maxi dresses, structured blazers, and even swimwear.

These designs work beautifully in outdoor fashion photography, capturing the liveliness of summer. Brands looking to create dynamic campaigns should consider playing with movement—flowing fabrics, wind-swept hair, and bold colour contrast against natural backdrops.

Minimalist Whites & Monochrome Moments

A classic summer staple, minimalist whites have dominated 2025’s fashion scene. Crisp white linen sets, sculptural white dresses, and relaxed suits have been go-to choices for brands wanting to showcase purity, elegance, and timeless sophistication.

White-on-white fashion photography can be incredibly powerful, especially when paired with high-contrast lighting or set against natural Australian landscapes. It’s also the easiest trend to transition into autumn—simply layer with soft cashmere, structured coats, and warm-toned accessories.


The Power of Colour Psychology in Branding & Fashion Campaigns

Colour isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a powerful branding tool. Whether you’re a fashion house, an independent designer, or a luxury retailer, the right colour palette can evoke emotion and drive consumer behaviour. Here’s how brands have been using colour psychology in their summer campaigns:

  • Soft pastels = Calm, luxury, and femininity. Brands using these tones appeal to audiences looking for elegance and sophistication with a modern twist.
  • Bold florals & vibrant colours = Energy, excitement, and creativity. Perfect for brands targeting a younger or more adventurous clientele.
  • Minimalist whites = Purity, simplicity, and high-end luxury. A staple for premium brands looking to communicate sophistication and timeless style.

The key takeaway? Your fashion campaign’s colours should align with your brand’s message. If you’re positioning your label as contemporary and daring, lean into the electric florals. If you’re cultivating an air of refined luxury, crisp whites and pastel layering will be your best friends.

Incorporating Colour & Pattern Trends into Your Marketing & Fashion Photography

For brands looking to harness these trends in their marketing, photography, and overall aesthetic, here are a few expert tips:

1. Develop a Signature Seasonal Palette

Choose a colour palette that reflects both current trends and your brand’s identity. If you’re a resort wear brand, soft pastels with bursts of citrus tones can keep your collections feeling fresh. If you cater to a more minimalist audience, whites with subtle warm undertones will feel chic and seasonally relevant.

2. Play with Pattern for Visual Impact

Patterns aren’t just for garments—they should be reflected in your marketing materials, social media, and photography. Bold florals can be integrated into campaign backdrops, product styling, or even website design to create a cohesive visual identity.

3. Transition Thoughtfully into Autumn 2025

With summer coming to a close, now’s the time to subtly introduce autumnal tones into branding. Think deeper pastels paired with tan, richer floral tones (like burgundy and burnt orange), and layering white summer staples with soft woollens.

4. Leverage Colour Psychology in Campaign Messaging

Tie colour choices to emotional messaging in your campaigns. For instance, if you’re promoting a spring/summer collection clearance, opt for uplifting, fresh tones in promotional materials to maintain excitement. If you’re transitioning to autumn, use warm, comforting hues to evoke a sense of cosiness and anticipation.

5. Book a Photoshoot That Brings These Trends to Life

Fashion photography is more than just documentation—it’s storytelling. Whether you’re launching a new collection or rebranding, a carefully curated photoshoot can elevate your brand’s perception and customer engagement. At Matthew Cornell Photography, we specialise in crafting bespoke fashion imagery that aligns with current trends while maintaining timeless appeal.

Looking Ahead: Autumn 2025 Trends to Watch

As we move into the cooler months, expect to see:

  • Rich earth tones: Chocolate browns, olive greens, and terracotta will start to take centre stage.
  • Textures over patterns: Wool, suede, and leather will add depth to styling.
  • Statement outerwear: Oversized coats and tailored trench styles will dominate.
  • Subtle metallics: Soft gold and silver tones will weave their way into accessories and evening wear.

For brands preparing their next campaign, now’s the time to start shooting autumn collections. The transition from summer to autumn offers a golden opportunity for layered, dynamic photography that blends seasonal tones with a hint of lingering summer warmth.

Final Thoughts

As summer 2025 wraps up, we celebrate a season of colour, vibrancy, and elegance. From soft pastels to bold florals and timeless whites, this season has offered something for every brand and stylist. Looking ahead to autumn, the transition is smooth for those who know how to layer, blend, and integrate seasonal shifts into their marketing.

If you’re a designer, stylist, or fashion brand preparing for the next season, let’s collaborate to create stunning imagery that captures both the essence of summer and the sophistication of the coming autumn months.

Let’s make 2025 a year of unforgettable fashion photography. Get in touch with Matt Cornell today to book your next shoot!