A Look Back at 2024: Our Favorite Trends and the PR POV
As 2024 comes to a close, the team at KC Projects is reflecting on the trends, moments, and products that captured our hearts this year. From pop culture phenomena to viral fashion statements, these are the things we loved—and as PR professionals, we can’t help but share our perspective on why they made such a splash.
Rom-Com Movie Resurgence
In 2024, we are fully embracing the rom-com resurgence, and it feels like a warm hug for our movie-loving hearts. From Netflix hits like Nobody Wants This to big-screen releases like Anyone But You and The Fall Guy, these films are bringing back the charm, humor, and heart we’ve all missed.Whether it’s the quirky meet-cutes, laugh-out-loud banter, or swoon-worthy endings, rom-coms are reestablishing themselves as a genre for everyone to enjoy. Their ability to deliver lighthearted escapism and emotional connection is exactly what we need in today’s fast-paced world.
PR POV: The rom-com revival is a lesson in audience listening and strategic storytelling. By leaning into nostalgia while adapting to modern relationships and humor, these films are effectively reigniting their fan base and attracting new audiences. The genre proves that storytelling rooted in relatability and feel-good vibes has timeless appeal—an essential takeaway for brands looking to connect with their own audiences authentically.
Paris Olympics Viral Moments
The 2024 Olympics in Paris delivered unforgettable moments that had the world glued to their screens. From Snoop Dogg hilariously showing up at nearly every event to the debut of breakdancing sparking heated debates, and that pole vault incident (IFYKYK)—these viral moments took the games beyond the arenas and straight into pop culture. The combination of athleticism, drama, and personality brought the perfect blend of excitement, making these Olympics more than just a competition—they were a global phenomenon that united and entertained millions.
PR POV: The 2024 Olympics demonstrated the power of storytelling and cultural relevance in PR. By leaning into viral moments and letting personalities shine, the games captured attention far beyond sports fans, engaging diverse audiences worldwide.
Leopard Print
Leopard print made a roaring return this year, solidifying its position as a wardrobe staple. From bold coats to subtle accessories, the print wasn’t just a statement—it became a neutral. Designers embraced fresh styles and modern twists, proving leopard isn’t just for the wild side but for the everyday.
PR POV: Leopard print’s evolution into a “neutral” shows the power of reinvention in branding. A pattern that was once considered bold and daring is now widely embraced as versatile and classic. The fashion industry’s ability to reintroduce leopard print in updated styles and fresh contexts kept it feeling modern and wearable for every generation. It’s a reminder that even iconic trends need consistent reimagining to stay relevant.
Mahjong
This classic Chinese tile game became a surprising trend this year, gaining popularity among younger generations. Social media was filled with Mahjong nights, beautifully designed sets, and influencers turning the game into a social ritual. In fact, one of our clients, JJ Eyes, hosted their very own “Mahjong Bootcamp” this year.
PR POV: Mahjong’s rise shows how tradition can be modernized to reach new audiences. By blending cultural heritage with stylish, Instagram-worthy designs, brands turned Mahjong into more than just a game—it became a lifestyle trend. This demonstrates the value of tapping into nostalgia while rebranding it with a contemporary twist.
The Eras Tour
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour wasn’t just a concert—it was the cultural phenomenon of 2024. Spanning continents, breaking records, and inspiring countless viral moments, the tour was a celebration of not only Taylor’s career but also her ability to connect deeply with her audience. Each performance took fans on a journey through her musical "eras," with elaborate stage designs, iconic costumes, and heartfelt storytelling tied to each chapter of her discography. Fans embraced the experience wholeheartedly, donning themed outfits, exchanging friendship bracelets, and flooding social media with their own Eras Tour moments. The tour even transcended the stadiums it filled, becoming a global event that united Swifties everywhere.
From the surprise songs each night to the viral “What era are you in?” TikToks, the tour proved to be a masterstroke in fostering engagement. Fans didn’t just attend the show—they became part of it, creating content, sharing their excitement, and turning the Eras Tour into a worldwide movement.
PR POV: The Eras Tour combined nostalgia, exclusivity, and fan interaction to perfection. By framing the tour as a journey through her career, Taylor’s team tapped into the universal love for storytelling. Unique elements like surprise songs and Easter eggs kept fans engaged and ensured every show felt special. Partnerships with platforms like Spotify amplified the buzz, while fans’ content-sharing turned the tour into a cultural movement. Taylor’s ability to make each fan feel personally connected to her brand is a masterclass in PR, proving once again why she’s not just a musical icon but a marketing genius.
LED Skincare
Beauty enthusiasts couldn’t get enough of LED skincare devices in 2024. These futuristic gadgets were everywhere—from influencers’ skincare routines to high-end marketing campaigns. LED masks and tools promised professional-grade results at home, making them a must-have.
PR POV: LED skincare’s rise highlights the importance of combining science-backed claims with influencer credibility. Brands successfully leveraged dermatologist endorsements and influencer partnerships to build trust and educate consumers. The sleek, high-tech aesthetic of LED devices also made them Instagram-friendly, ensuring their place in both beauty routines and social media trends.
"Quiet Luxury"
Forget loud logos and flashy branding—this year was all about understated elegance. “Quiet luxury” is characterized by understated elegance, timeless design, and impeccable craftsmanship, this movement shifted the focus from flashy logos and loud trends to subtle sophistication. Think cashmere sweaters in muted tones, tailored blazers, and minimalist accessories—pieces that whisper quality rather than scream for attention. Luxury brands like The Row, Brunello Cucinelli, and Loro Piana led the way, inspiring a wave of intentional, investment-focused shopping.
Beyond fashion, quiet luxury became a lifestyle. It emphasized the art of curating one’s life with meaningful, long-lasting choices, whether it was about buying fewer, higher-quality items or appreciating the beauty of simplicity in everything from home design to skincare routines.
PR POV: Quiet luxury succeeded because it spoke to consumers’ growing desire for authenticity and substance over flash. For brands, this was a lesson in subtle yet powerful storytelling. Marketing focused on the craftsmanship and heritage behind the products, allowing the quality to shine without excessive messaging. It’s proof that sometimes, less really is more.
