Social media trends change faster than you can blink! One moment, everyone is obsessed with a bold style, and the next, soft and simple is the way to go. If you wait too long to follow the trend, it might already be fading away. So, you have two choices—be part of the buzz or get left behind.
That’s why brands and marketers need to stay updated on trends, not just following them but preparing in advance. The key is to act quickly and confidently.
Here are some trends for social media in 2025 that are not just passing waves—they’re here to stay. Make sure to use them to grow your business in the digital landscape.
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Try It Now!11 Best Social Media Trends 2025
1. Videos: The #1 Content Format
Unlike in 2024, video content—whether short-form or long-form—continues to dominate social media in 2025. Platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and even LinkedIn videos remain the most popular and engaging content formats.
In fact, studies show that over 80% of internet users prefer watching videos over reading text, and video posts generate higher engagement rates than static images or text-based content. With people spending an average of 17 hours per week watching online videos, it’s clear that video isn’t just a passing trend—it’s the future of social media marketing.
A great example is Nike, which features basketball players in high-quality videos, attracting millions of viewers.
| Fact Check As a video-centric platform, TikTok has experienced massive growth, doubling its users from 2020 to 2024. |
2. AI Is the Future
AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s shaping the way we create, consume, and interact on social media. From personalized content recommendations to AI-generated influencers, 2025 is the year AI goes full throttle in the social media world.
What’s Trending in AI on Social Media?
- Hyper-Personalized Content – AI knows what you like before you do. The reason is that social platforms are using advanced algorithms to show users exactly what they want, making engagement rates skyrocket.
- AI-Generated Influencers – Virtual influencers were just the beginning. Brands are now creating their own AI personas to interact with audiences 24/7.
Lu do Magalu, Miquela, and Barbie are some of the top AI influencers.
- Smart Chatbots & AI Assistants – AI-powered bots are handling DMs, answering FAQs, and even suggesting products based on user behavior. Thus, making customer service faster and smarter than ever.
- AI-Powered Content Creation – Tools like ChatGPT, Practina, and Midjourney are helping brands generate captions and images in seconds.
3. Unfiltered UGC
Indeed, nothing beats originality. In a world full of polished ads, unfiltered user-generated content (UGC) breaks through the noise by being raw, real, and truly relatable. As a result, earning the trust of audiences everywhere.
From a customer’s before-and-after photo, and an unscripted product review, to a casual shoutout on social media, these genuine moments build trust and credibility. In addition to this, brands that embrace unfiltered UGC don’t just get engagement—they also build communities. Because, when customers feel heard and valued, they keep coming back. Thus, use this social media trend and let real people do the talking.
| UGC market is valued at $5.36 billion today, and expected to reach $32.6 billion by 2030. |
4. Social SEO
More people are skipping Google and heading straight to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest to find what they need. Even if they are searching, for “best skincare for dry skin,” or “trendy cafes near me,” social media is where they’re looking for answers.
That’s where Social SEO comes in. Instead of relying only on hashtags, brands are now optimizing their captions, bios, and video descriptions with searchable keywords. Also, it uses natural language, trending queries, and relevant keywords to rank higher in in-app searches.
For instance:
- A fitness coach might use “beginner home workouts” instead of just #Fitness.
- A restaurant could include “best brunch in NYC” in their posts.
- A skincare brand can optimize content for a “glowing skin routine” to attract searchers.
Just stay specific with your services, search for the relevant keywords, and use them for your posts.
5. The Influencers Community
| A Powerful Investment For every $1 spent on influencer marketing, businesses see a return of $6.50 in revenue. Source: Convince & Convert |
That said, in 2025, creators and influencers aren’t just part of the conversation—they are the conversation.
From micro-influencers with niche followings to big-name content creators, the power of influence is stronger than ever. Be it TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube, these digital personalities are driving trends, shaping opinions, and influencing what people buy, watch, and talk about.
Why? Because audiences trust people more than brands. A recommendation from a favorite influencer feels more like advice from a friend than a sales pitch. That’s why brands are shifting their focus from traditional ads to collaborations with creators who have built strong, engaged communities.
In short—if you’re not leveraging creators and influencers in 2025, you’re missing out on one of the biggest social media trends.
6. Winning Over Gen Z
Nearly 43% of Gen Z rely on social media as their go-to source for daily news.
Beyond being just another demographic, they’re the face behind today’s biggest social media trends. They don’t just consume content; they create it, remix it, and turn it into viral trends overnight. Therefore, if brands want to stay relevant, they need to speak Gen Z’s language.
This generation values realness over perfection. Moreover, they align with brands that share their beliefs, in terms of sustainability, inclusivity, or social impact.
So, what works for Gen Z?
Short-Form Videos, Interactive Visuals & Content, and Authenticity.
Platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram Reels are where Gen Z spends most of their time. And brands that show up with creativity, humor, and a fresh perspective win their loyalty.
| Average Daily Social Media Usage | Percentage of Gen Z’s |
| 3-6 hours or more | 58% |
| 1-2 hours | 24% |
| 30 minutes – 1 hour | 12% |
| Less than 30 minutes | 6% |
7. Narrow-Targeted Ads
Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all ads! Brands are getting very specific through narrow-targeted ads, ensuring the right message reaches the right audience at the right time.
Instead of showing ads to millions and expecting the results, businesses now use AI-driven insights, user behavior tracking, and personalized data to craft highly relevant ads. These ads not only boost engagement but also increase conversions and brand loyalty because people see exactly what they need.
To make the most of this social media trend, you must:
- Refine your targeting and
- Ensure every ad feels personal, relevant, and, most importantly, effective.
For instance,
Amazon Retargeting Strategy
If you check out a product but don’t buy it, Amazon makes sure you see that exact item (and similar ones) in ads across social media, nudging you to complete your purchase.
8. The Power of Trends and Cultural Moments
Viral memes to global, cultural moments set the tone for what people talk about online. Brands that catch these waves at the right time boost visibility, connect with their audience on a deeper level, and stay ahead of the competition.
Think about how AI tools or TikTok challenges have completely changed the way businesses interact with customers. However, jumping on every trend isn’t the solution to improve engagement. The real power lies in knowing which trends fit your brand and adding something valuable to the conversation. Stay flexible, be creative, and use cultural moments to make a lasting impact.
9. Your Brand Story
| 56% of consumers stick with brands they truly connect with. |
On social media, it isn’t just about selling a product—it’s about creating a connection. People don’t just buy things; they buy into emotions, experiences, and values. Think about your favorite brands. Chances are, they don’t just talk about what they sell. They tell a story! Mostly which people can relate to. Moreover, a great brand story makes customers see themselves in it, turning them from buyers into loyal fans.
So, what to do exactly? Make Your Brand Unique!
And, tell everyone—Why You Started & What You Stand For.
How to make the most of this social media trend in 2025—Use videos and customer experiences to bring your story to life.
10. Instagram Threads
When Instagram launched “Threads”, many thought it was just another Twitter alternative. Fast forward to 2025, and it has become a major player in the social media landscape—especially for brands, creators, and communities.
Unlike traditional Instagram posts, Threads is all about real-time conversations. Simply put, it’s where brands engage in unfiltered discussions, drop exclusive updates, and build deeper connections with their audience. Think of it as a mix between Twitter’s fast-paced chats and Instagram’s visual storytelling—but with a more engaged and loyal community.
11. Trendjacking vs. Trend Detox
Social media moves fast—one day it’s all about a viral dance challenge, the next it’s a new AI filter taking over feeds. Brands have two choices: jump on trends (trend jacking) or take a step back and focus on their core values (trend detox).
When Trendjack
- It aligns with your brand’s values, message, and audience.
- It’s fresh and gaining momentum.
When Trend Detox
- The trend is overused or losing impact.
- You’re burning out from chasing trends.
Or, find the sweet spot—mix trend participation with original, brand-first content. Done right, it can skyrocket visibility—just look at brands like Wendy’s, Duolingo, or Netflix that thrive on hopping onto pop culture moments.
Conclusion
To conclude, keeping up with social media trends is key to staying relevant. But the real magic happens when you know how to apply those trends to your business. Undoubtedly, 2025 brings a wave of new trends, but jumping on them without a plan can do more harm than good.
The Key? Be Selective, Stay Strategic, and Make Trends Work For You!
Trends come and go in a flash. By the time businesses catch up, the moment may already be gone. And even when they do, making sure the post has the right hashtags, captions, and visuals is another hurdle. The solution? Practina AI—your all-in-one tool for effortless social media management.
FAQs
Q: What Are the Top Social Media Trends To Follow in 2025?
A: In 2025, social media will be shaped by authentic video format content, interactive communication and AI increasingly enhancing user experiences.
Q: Which Social Media Will Grow in the Future?
A: According to Future Social newsletter creator Jack Appleby, YouTube Shorts is set to become a crucial part of short-form video strategies in 2025. He believes brands will use it as an extension of their TikTok and Reels content.
Q: What Is the Future of Social Media in 2025?
A: In 2025, social media will be all about short-form videos, AI-driven personalization, and authentic engagement. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts will dominate, while AI will enhance content creation and customer interactions.
