Most Disruptive Industry Trends 2025: Global Women Leaders Speak

Minu Alexander, President, Alshaya Group highlights the drastic change fashion brands underwent owing to the shift in digital and social media trends.

“Looking back at 2025, I saw fashion undergo a seismic shift. Influencers and social media didn’t just amplify trends, they rewrote the rules of engagement. Brands that once dictated style now relied on personalities who spoke directly to consumers, creating an ecosystem where lifestyle and commerce merged seamlessly. It was fast, raw, and undeniably powerful,” says Minu.

In 2026, Minu expects AI to disrupt the fashion retail industry drastically. She explains, “Now, as we step into 2026, the conversation pivots to AI. This isn’t just another tech buzzword; it’s a force that will redefine fashion’s DNA. Imagine predictive trend analysis shaping collections before they’re even conceived, generative design accelerating creativity, and virtual prototyping slashing development timelines. Customer experiences will feel deeply personal, powered by virtual try-ons and conversational bots, while material innovation and lifecycle tracking push us closer to a circular economy.”

She advices the industry to approach tech trends with an open mind. “My personal observation says that technology isn’t the real barrier, mindset is. Many organizations hesitate, fixated on quick ROI instead of long-term transformation. The question that keeps me awake is this: will we embrace bold change, or let caution dilute fashion’s most defining era? The answer will shape not just brands, but the future of how we live and express ourselves.”

About Minu Alexander: She is a dynamic professional with over 23 years of experience in retail, merchandising, and e-commerce, driving business growth and leading diverse teams. A key leader at Alshaya, she champions inclusion, innovation, and customer-centric excellence, contributing to H&M's expansion across nine countries and multiple markets.