IN and OUT for 2025: The Good, The Bad, and the “No Thanks”
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As we stumble our way into 2025, one thing is clear: the year ahead is full of mystery, possibility, and, of course, fresh opportunities to get everything right this time. Right? But, while New Year's resolutions may be out, IN and OUT lists? Well, they're in. And while I’m aware I’m a little late to the party (my birthday’s at the very beginning of the year—give me a break). So let’s dive into the trends, obsessions, and “no thanks, I’m good” that will define the next 12 months.
Before you dig into the INs and Outs of 2025, catch up on all the best of 2024!
IN:
Actually Using Letterboxd
Okay, let’s talk about Letterboxd. Yes, the five-star rating system is a little... annoying (seriously, can we all just agree it should be four stars?), but I’m ready to embrace it fully. I’m committing to tracking every movie I watch this year, but it’s not just about ratings. I’m in it for the reviews—the good, the bad, and the funny. Because even when a film’s terrible, there’s usually something to dig into, and that’s what makes it fun.
#FREEPALESTINE Movement
This isn’t going anywhere—sorry not sorry. The genocide in Gaza didn’t disappear just because the media moved on. The fight for Palestinian liberation is a long-term commitment. No more bittersweet victories like Biden’s Medal of Honor for Jose Andres while his administration supports Israel’s war crimes. From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!
Mixed Metals
Silver or gold? Porque no los dos? Look, I spent way too long stressing over whether my jewelry had to match (spoiler: it doesn’t). But in 2025, we’re mixing metals like it’s no one’s business. Silver, gold, rose gold—throw ‘em all together and let the sparks fly.
Impromptu Staycations and Getaways
Selfcare is even more important than ever, and that means taking breaks, but they don’t always require a plane ticket to across the world. Sometimes, you just need a cozy hotel an hour away or a spontaneous weekend road trip. Whether solo or with friends, go ahead and book that impromptu staycation—you deserve it. (Also, if you need someone to go with you, I’m available.)
Listening to Your Trainer
This year is all about me—I deserve it. And you deserve to make this year about you too. 2025 is about self-improvement, and that means both body and mind. I’ve already gained 10+ pounds of muscle, and it’s all thanks to my amazing trainer. So, yeah, this year, I’m not just showing up to the gym—I’m actually listening to my trainer’s advice. And if you’re someone with the funds to afford a trainer, it’s well worth it.
Continued Education
We’re not just getting hotter; we’re getting smarter. Whether it’s a seminar, an online course, or just watching a YouTube tutorial on something you know absolutely nothing about—education is the theme of 2025. Here’s to leveling up, whatever that looks like for you.
Poetry
2025 is the year I finally finish my poetry book and try to get it out there. Poetry is such a personal thing, and while I usually only share it with my closest friends (okay, fine, I’m a little shy), this year, expect to see a little more poetic musings in your inbox. Not promising a poetry collection yet, but... baby steps.
Anklets
Anklets are back, baby—and I’m here for it. Especially for men. They’re the unsung hero of accessories: fun, flirty, and, when done right, a little sexy. So, yeah, we’re reviving them in 2025.
OUT:
Americana Aesthetic
Patriotism? Pass. Look, I love Beyoncé, that’s mother after all. But the Americana aesthetic, let’s hang it up. Remember “America has a problem!” And we can’t keep glorifying a country that’s built on oppression, murder, and systemic inequality. Sorry, but if you’re still clinging to that “Proud American” attitude in 2025, I have questions. So here’s to hoping Beyoncé’s January 14th announcement is her moving into Act III rather than continuing on with Cowboy Carter.
Remakes
Enough with the remakes! TV shows, movies—it’s all just recycled content at this point. Can we get something new? I mean, seriously, bring me something fresh, please. I’m begging.
SZA Solo Music
Someone once said SZA’s music is for people with “high self-esteem and low self-worth,” and, honestly, I can’t unhear it. Her collaborations are fire (especially with Kendrick Lamar), don’t get me wrong, but her solo work is starting to feel a little repetitive. I’m just over the same old sad music crying over a man you’re a side chick for—like is it the same man? SZA GET UP!
Christian Nationalism
I’m over it. Christian nationalism is like that toxic ex that won’t let go, and it’s been rotting America from the inside out. This ideology has led to authoritarianism, oppression, and, quite frankly, a cultural dumpster fire. Can we just retire this nonsense already?
Katy Perry
Katy Perry, sweetie, I think it’s time for a hiatus. Ever since her blond pixie cut moment and “Swish Swish,” she’s never been able to get back to the iconic pop star she once was. Her latest album didn’t do it for me, and the only track worth listening to was the one with Doechii on it—and primarily because Doechii was on it. So let’s call it a break and regroup for 2026—maybe with some more Teenage Dream vibes?
House of Villains
First off, huge thanks to House of Villains for bringing Tiffany "New York" Pollard back in classic form. Anyone who knows me knows villains are the best part of reality TV, so a whole show of them? Dream come true. But here’s the catch: every season, the winner ends up being the one who’s the least villainous. What is this? A redemption arc? Nah, I want the chaos, not the reformed hero. If New York returns for Season 3, I’ll watch, but for the love of drama—can we get a villain who actually wins?
Liberals
You know what liberals are like? The political equivalent of the phrase “go girl, give us nothing.” They love to scream about the rise of fascism under Trump, but then act like nothing is wrong when their side does the same. Case in point: January 6th. A day that no one ever cared about or knew was big deal in politics until four years ago when the MAGA mob stormed The Capitol in an insurrection in the name of of Trump and his delusional idea that he won the 2020 election. Yesterday, after all the shouting that Trump was a fascist and “threat to democracy” they stood by and certified the election results with not even a peep of dissention. Liberals may talk a big game, but they’re just as complicit in keeping the system the same as the people they claim to oppose.