TikTok continues to influence cultural and social landscapes globally, with its user base of 1.2 billion—approximately 70% of whom belong to Generation Z—driving a variety of trends across fashion, politics, and lifestyle. Analysis of recent TikTok activity reveals emerging trends and ongoing themes shaping online communities.
In early 2025, the hashtag #ClimbingTikTok gained popularity as users shared climbing tips and challenges, reflecting a growing interest in both indoor and outdoor climbing activities. Simultaneously, #CrashingOut became a prominent hashtag that featured users candidly sharing everyday disappointments and setbacks, emphasizing a movement towards vulnerability and emotional openness on the platform.
Political activism found a voice through TikTok as well. Across the United States, students organized #WalkOuts in protest of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities. The platform served as a crucial space for spreading information and personal accounts related to this sociopolitical issue.
Anticipation for the release of the film adaptation of “Wuthering Heights” spurred significant engagement under the hashtag #WutheringHeights. The film’s marketing, including Margot Robbie’s press appearances adorned in luxury fashion pieces and a soundtrack featuring Charli XCX, generated substantial buzz. However, some viewers, especially fans of the original novel, expressed dissatisfaction with deviations from the source material.
TikTok’s demographic has been diversifying, with millennials, Gen X, and baby boomers joining the platform and fueling trends such as #MarriedTok. This hashtag features comedic takes on married life, showcasing the routine compromises faced by couples.
Fashion trends on TikTok in 2025-2026 were notably dynamic. New York-based label LoveShackFancy experienced viral attention, growing by 53% week-over-week, as users celebrated its romantic, frilly clothing style through hauls and try-on videos. The resurgence of gothic fashion was evident in the 48% weekly growth in #GothFashion content, which provided outfit inspiration and styling ideas.
Tech accessories emerged as new trend territories. The hashtag #AirpodsCase surged by 75% week-over-week as users displayed creative, novelty cases ranging from miniature suitcase designs to food-themed patterns.
Footwear trends included the return of stilettos, seen as a shift from the previously favored kitten heels, and a notable interest in Christian Louboutin shoes, which saw a 91% increase in hashtag views. Seasonal shifts also influenced content, with snowy weather driving increases in posts about chunky knitwear (up 197%) and winter footwear, such as snow boots showcased by users in cities like Paris.
Office-related fashion (#OfficeOutfits) experienced a dramatic 811% rise in views, reflecting a post-holiday focus on workplace wardrobe updates for winter 2026. Holiday-related content remained vibrant throughout the season, featuring hashtags like #TikTokHolidayHaul, #WishList, and #GiftGuide, which encompassed diverse styles from practical gifts to niche curated suggestions.
Broader cultural trends included a renewed interest in financial literacy, with #PersonalFinanceTips gaining traction as young people shared advice on savings and investment. The hashtag #WinterTok documented seasonal traditions and fashion tips.
Additionally, TikTok discourse addressed complex social themes. The #QuarterZip and #NikeTech trends, both surging over 1,000% week-over-week, illustrated conversations about fashion choices intersecting with racial and professional identities.
Entertainment-related buzz included significant engagement with the fifth and final season of “Stranger Things,” with fans sharing favorite moments, soundtracks, and predictions. Similarly, the musical “Wicked: For Good” sparked online discussion, including lip-sync videos and analyses of cast relationships.
Sports enthusiasts embraced the return of the football season, sharing highlights and outfits with the hashtag #FootballIsBack, looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup.
Other notable cultural moments included the yearly excitement around Mariah Carey during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, and a rise in interest in spirituality as users shared content about full moons and manifestation.
Throughout 2025 and into 2026, TikTok has maintained its role as a dynamic platform where trends evolve rapidly, spanning serious societal issues, fashion innovations, entertainment, and personal lifestyle content.
