Introduction
TikTok in July 2025 delivered some of the most creative, unexpected, and culture-shaping trends yet. From cringe-funny audio clips to storytelling formats leaning into vulnerability, July’s viral content spanned seven high-energy formats that creators and brands everywhere should know. Here’s your guide to the top TikTok trends of July 2025, with practical tips and inspiration for making them work on your own channel.
1. Plot-Twist Videos & Awkward Audio
TikTok creators leaned into formats built around plot twists and cringe audio punchlines, using tracks like “Lion’s Roar” and “Alibi” to deliver surprising comedic payoffs.
Why it works: These videos hold attention through storytelling and deliver highly relatable or awkward comedic moments, making them share-worthy.
How to use it: Create content that seems mundane or ideal at first, then flips dramatically—e.g., “When you think it’s your boss texting you praise… and it’s actually a firing notice.” Add an awkward audio sting to amplify the punchline.
2. Soft Confessions & Body-Confidence Wins
Another top trend this month is the rise of “soft confession” videos and body-positivity monologues. TikTokers are embracing vulnerability by opening up about personal struggles or celebrating small self-love wins.
Why it works: These videos build authenticity and deep emotional resonance. They resonate especially with Gen Z and Millennial audiences who value transparency and realness.
How to use it: Share a story about overcoming self-doubt, or highlight inclusive branding that celebrates body diversity. Brands can humanize themselves through real employee stories or behind-the-scenes glimpses.
3. Throwback Sounds + Nostalgic Edits
Creators continue tapping into nostalgia with retro music, lo-fi filters, and vintage transitions. Songs like Boston’s “More Than a Feeling” or tracks from the 2000s serve as soundtracks to Then-vs-Now or “lost memory” montages.
Why it works: Nostalgia triggers emotion and memory, making videos more engaging and shareable. It also encourages remix culture.
How to use it: Dig up old photos or footage, pair it with a vintage track, and tell a story about how much has changed. Perfect for brand origin stories or product transformations.
4. Community Fest Content & Creator Storytelling
TikTok’s Community Fest initiative promoted storytelling by underrepresented creators. Content focused on identity, community, and shared experience became incredibly popular this month.
Why it works: Stories build empathy. Community Fest content encourages viewers to listen, connect, and share their own journeys.
How to use it: Join a trend or launch your own series using relevant hashtags (e.g., #FilipinoHeritage, #QueerVoices). Collaborate with diverse creators to authentically expand your reach.
5. Viral Audio Challenges
Sound-based challenges are always in play on TikTok, but July’s chart-toppers included tracks like “Deslocado” by NAPA and “ALL 2 U” by KILLOWEN. These were featured in expressive dance trends, comedy lip-syncs, and meme edits.
Why it works: Catchy audio creates instant recognition. Challenges linked to songs often go viral due to familiarity and ease of remix.
How to use it: Pick a rising sound early, create a catchy concept or prompt, and invite your audience to remix it. Ideal for fashion, food, or lifestyle brands.
6. United in Grief Reaction Trend
A more emotionally grounded trend, the “United in Grief” format juxtaposes a joyful scene with a sad or ironic twist using emotionally charged or melancholy audio (inspired by Kendrick Lamar’s themes).
Why it works: This trend creates an emotional whiplash that mirrors real-life disappointment—highly shareable and discussion-worthy.
How to use it: Creators can share heartfelt but ironic stories, like scoring a dream job then realizing the commute is 3 hours. Brands might use it for before/after reveals with an unexpected twist.
7. Guess What Happened Next? (The ‘Guess’ Format)
This format leads viewers into a story—then stops. Creators ask the audience to guess what happened next, leaving the comment section flooded with theories.
Why it works: It drives comment engagement and curiosity while allowing creators to follow up with a part 2.
How to use it: For creators: share a personal story that ends on a cliffhanger. For businesses: tease a product drop or event outcome and let the audience fill in the blanks.
Why These Trends Matter
- High engagement: Participation-based trends drive comments, duets, and shares.
- Relatable: Humor, nostalgia, and soft confessions appeal across generations.
- Story-driven: Trends this month leaned heavily into narrative formats, perfect for creators with a message.
- Flexible: These formats can be tailored to fit any niche, from beauty to tech.
Tips for Leveraging These Trends
| Strategy | Execution Idea |
|---|---|
| Use trending audio early | Create a skit around a plot-twist sound |
| Highlight authenticity | Soft confession behind-the-scenes brand stories |
| Invite audience participation | Ask viewers to “Guess what happened next?” |
| Tap into nostalgia | Use vintage music or footage in brand retrospectives |
| Collaborate with diverse voices | Partner during Community Fest or themed months |
Final Thoughts
The top TikTok trends of July 2025 reflect more than just viral fun—they represent a shift toward vulnerability, cultural storytelling, and deeply personal creativity. Whether you’re an individual creator or a brand, embracing these trends now can position you for higher engagement, stronger community connection, and long-term visibility.
Don’t just follow the trend—make it yours.