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NEW YEAR,
SAME FACES.

02 JANUARY 2025 • FASHION • MODERN CULTURE

As we step into January 2025, one thing in the fashion world feels unmistakably familiar—Juergen Teller’s omnipresence in major campaigns. From Balenciaga to Saint Laurent, his raw, unfiltered aesthetic continues to dominate the luxury landscape.

It’s hard to argue against Teller’s influence. His candid, unpolished photography style—characterized by natural light, minimal retouching, and a sense of spontaneity—has become synonymous with high-end fashion’s rejection of perfection. But are we reaching a point where even this anti-gloss, authenticity-driven aesthetic feels predictable?
The Current State of Fashion Campaigns

Right now, campaigns by Balenciaga, Loewe, YSL, Ferragamo, Vivienne Westwood, Victoria Beckham, and Marc Jacobs all bear Teller’s distinctive signature. His visual language has shaped not just collections, but the entire mood of fashion branding.

The appeal is understandable. In a world saturated by hyper-curated, filter-heavy content, Teller’s stripped-back approach offers a refreshing antidote. His images speak to a desire for realness and imperfection, qualities that resonate with audiences increasingly wary of polished social media illusions.
Balenciaga
Vivienne Westwood
The Craving for Something New

However, as artist and creative @jorique___ pointed out in response to a post by The Face Magazine,“I miss campaigns being exciting and creative, shot not by the same 5 people who’ve been doing it for 30+ years, even though I love them, but come on.”

This sentiment reflects a growing frustration within the creative community. While Teller’s work is revered, there’s a hunger for fresh voices and new perspectives in campaign photography.
Is Authenticity the New Formula?

The question arises—is this raw, unpolished style now just another aesthetic trend, following the same cyclical path as previous movements?

Authenticity sells, but if everyone adopts the same “imperfect” look, does it lose its edge? Brands that once prided themselves on being avant-garde risk blending into a sea of sameness.
What Can We Expect from Fashion in 2025?

As 2025 begins, the fashion industry faces a creative crossroads. Will this be the year that brands diversify their creative rosters, tapping into emerging photographers and innovators? Or will we continue to see the same faces behind the camera, reinforcing a visual comfort zone?

One thing is clear—audiences are ready for something new. The challenge lies in whether brands will take the risk or stay with what feels safe.
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