Artificial Intelligence (AI) reshaped digital creativity in 2025, with AI-generated images emerging as one of the year’s biggest online phenomena. From nostalgic recreations to cinematic portraits, users across platforms embraced AI tools to express emotions, culture and imagination like never before.
Here’s a look at the top five AI image trends that dominated social media throughout the year.
Viral Studio Ghibli-Inspired Art
One of the most popular trends saw users transforming everyday photos into dreamy, anime-style visuals inspired by the iconic Studio Ghibli aesthetic. Soft colour palettes, hand-drawn textures and magical settings turned selfies, pets and cityscapes into whimsical artworks. The trend gained massive traction among anime enthusiasts and Gen-Z users, flooding Instagram and X with pastel-toned visuals.
Retro Saree Revival
Nostalgia played a major role in 2025’s AI trends, especially in India. The retro saree trend allowed users to recreate vintage Bollywood-inspired looks using AI. Classic drapes, old-school hairstyles and traditional jewellery helped users imagine themselves in timeless avatars, blending cultural heritage with modern technology.
AI-generated 3D Figurines
Another standout trend was the creation of realistic 3D figurine images. Users converted their photos into miniature, collectible-style characters resembling action figures. With studio lighting, sharp detailing and playful poses, these images quickly became social-media favourites and profile pictures.
Time Travel: Hug Your Younger Self
One of the most emotional trends of the year, this concept enabled users to create images of themselves embracing their childhood versions. By combining old and recent photos, AI produced heartwarming visuals that triggered nostalgia and prompted users to share deeply personal stories.
AI Couple Studio Portraits
AI also transformed couple photography in 2025. Couples created polished, studio-style portraits with cinematic lighting and elegant backdrops without stepping into a studio. The trend became especially popular for anniversaries and social-media announcements.
These trends highlighted how AI in 2025 went beyond technology, becoming a powerful tool for storytelling, emotion and self-expression.