As the year comes to a close, we can’t help but marvel at how quickly 2024 has passed. Despite the ups and downs, this year has been marked by moments that kept us captivated, ranging from pop star power to political turmoil, and from shocking royal revelations to unforgettable fashion moments. Here’s a look back at the most significant events and trends that defined 2024.
The Pop Starlet Reigned Supreme
Charli XCX wasn’t just a leader in music this year; she revolutionized the genre with her bold album Brat, ushering in a new wave of rebellious pop. The year also saw the rise of new stars, including Sabrina Carpenter, who revived the music video format, and Chapelle Roan, whose stardom seemed to grow overnight. Gracie Abrams, Raye, Olivia Rodrigo, and other pop icons further solidified 2024 as the year of women in music, proving that girl power was the dominant force in pop culture.
The Royal Family’s Strength Amid Adversity
The Windsors faced unprecedented challenges this year, beginning with King Charles’ cancer diagnosis, followed by rumors surrounding Kate Middleton’s health. Kate, who revealed she was undergoing chemotherapy, took a brief hiatus but returned to public life in September with a powerful message of strength. The royal family’s resilience, despite public scrutiny, became a symbol of grace and dignity, especially in light of Kate’s candid announcement about her diagnosis.
A Bratty Summer: Charli XCX and Fashion’s Bold Turn
2024 was the year of bold fashion and unapologetic excess. Charli XCX’s album Brat became the anthem for the season, and the aesthetic that followed was all about rebellion and self-indulgence. The bratty look, described by Charli as “messy” and free of curated perfection, had people embracing flaws and uncertainties with pride. Fashion, like music, became a celebration of carefree living, breaking away from the minimalist ‘quiet luxury’ that had dominated for years.
A Seismic Year for Politics
Politics in 2024 took unexpected turns, with major elections and shocking outcomes. In the UK, the Conservative Party’s reign ended as Keir Starmer’s Labour Party triumphed in July, signaling a new era in British politics. Meanwhile, in the US, the presidential election saw incumbent Joe Biden stepping down, and Kamala Harris stepping up to take his place. Despite her efforts, Harris and running mate Tim Walz were no match for Donald Trump, who triumphed in a highly contentious race.
The End of the Eras Tour (and Taylor Swift’s Phenomenal Year)
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour finally came to a close after an astounding 149 shows across five continents. The tour grossed over $2 billion, and the phenomenon known as ‘Swiftonomics’ took the world by storm, with her presence boosting economies in every city she visited. With 10 million tickets sold, Swift’s influence on music and culture in 2024 was undeniable. After such a monumental achievement, it’s no surprise that she’s taking a much-deserved break.
Movie Press Tours Steal the Spotlight
While music tours may have wound down, movie press tours kept us entertained with drama and excitement. Zendaya’s Challengers had fans swooning, while The Substance became a cultural touchstone for its portrayal of aging and aesthetics. However, it was the press tour for Wicked that arguably stole the show. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s tear-filled interviews and high-fashion looks made the musical adaptation one of the most talked-about events of the year.
The Fashion Rumor Mill Went Into Overdrive
2024 saw major shake-ups in the fashion world, particularly with the announcement that Matthieu Blazy of Bottega Veneta would take over as Chanel’s creative director. Rumors about who would replace Virginie Viard at the helm of the luxury brand had been circulating for months, keeping fashion enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. As other top designers made moves, 2024 became a year of anticipation, and 2025 promises even more excitement on the runway.
TV Gave Us Romance and Drama
Television offered us a variety of romantic stories this year, with One Day on Netflix being a standout. Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall’s performances as a couple navigating love and loss captivated audiences. Meanwhile, the criminally underrated Alice & Jack and the hilarious Nobody Wants This further demonstrated the power of love stories on TV. The year also marked the final Gavin & Stacey Christmas special, providing a satisfying conclusion to a beloved series.
Sport: A Stylish Affair
Sport in 2024 brought us plenty of excitement, from the Olympics in Paris to thrilling moments at Wimbledon and the Euros. England came close to victory, but Spain ultimately triumphed in the Euros, while the Olympics saw Simone Biles make her much-anticipated return to gymnastics. Amid the sporting achievements, Tolami Benson, Bukayo Saka’s girlfriend, revived the WAG movement, drawing the media’s attention with her style and presence.
Hair Today, Bob Tomorrow
2024 was the year of the bob, as long locks made way for sleek, sharp cuts. Celebrities like Lucy Boynton, Michelle Yeoh, and Rosamund Pike embraced the bob, with variations in texture and volume. Stylists recommended opting for a length that flatters the face, with collarbone to jaw-length cuts being the most universally flattering. As we head into 2025, the bob is set to remain a chic and timeless trend.
As we look back at the whirlwind of 2024, it’s clear that the year has been marked by transformation, resilience, and creativity. From the rise of pop stars to political shifts, the royal family’s challenges, and memorable fashion moments, we’ve witnessed a year full of cultural and personal milestones. Here’s to a 2025 that promises even more thrilling moments and unforgettable memories.
