While eagerly anticipating spring’s arrival, it has become clear that a new color palette is trending alongside the budding flowers: pastels. With the emergence of buttery yellows, pistachio greens and powdery blues in several 2024 runway shows, designers have given the green light to refresh our outfits (and moods) by swapping out the beloved reds and grays that so fiercely defined winter. The incorporation of lighter hues aptly symbolizes the sentiment felt when transitioning from winter hibernation to sunshine spring, bidding farewell to our light therapy lamps.

Loewe Spring/Summer 2024
Dries van Noten Fall/Winter 2024
Fendi Spring/Summer 2024
Image credit: vogue.com

On the runway, designers opted to pair their pastel pieces in a variety of ways, showcasing garments, shoes, and accessories in a combination of monochromatic, tonal and mixed styles. The styles ranged from sleek, tailored coats (check out this one from Wardrobe.NYC) and silk dresses, to more elaborate pieces adorned with embellishments and textured fabrics for an elevated flair. For example, Versace adorned several pastel pieces in its spring/summer 2024 collection with checkerboard patterns and embellished beading, while Jacquemus created a sleek buttermilk car coat with crocodile embossing.

Prada Fall/Winter 2024 - vogue.com
Jacquemus Spring/Summer 2024 - gorunway.com
Alaia Winter/Spring 2024 - vogue.com
Versace Spring/Summer 2024 - vogue.com

One might argue that the recent “office core” aesthetic has influenced a widespread sense of wardrobe practicality, making functional closet staples and neutral colors a priority. Despite the prevalence of pastels in the spring/summer 2024 runway shows, several designers, including Prada, Chanel, The Row and Dries Van Noten, have also incorporated these lighter hues into their fall/winter 2024 collections. This consistency suggests that pastels will not only remain relevant for months to come, but also underscores their versatility beyond the warmer months. In some looks, Prada and Chanel introduced subtle pops of powder blue in their accessories, such as the belt and glove pictured below. Meanwhile, Dries Van Noten played with light and dark tones, displaying cohesive styling options suitable for the cooler months.

Prada Fall/ Winter 2024
Chanel Fall/Winter 2024
Chanel Fall/Winter 2024
Dries van Noten Fall/ Winter 2024
Image credit: vogue.com

For a simple yet elevated look, consider opting for pieces like this expertly tailored butter set by Carolina Herrera, or this oversized suit by The Row. For a subtle flair of color, opt to incorporate just one piece, such as the Margiela tabi flats in pale blue, or this pistachio tunic by Ferragamo.

Image credit: modaoperandi.com, netaporter.com, masionmargiela.com

To make a statement and pack a punch, opt for garments with embellishments like Coperni’s rosette-detailed mini dress or Miu Miu’s feathery lilac set. Bottega Veneta’s lilac velvet pumps with gold detailing can also spice up any outfit.

Image credit: odaoperandi.com farfetch.com

Article by Romi Bachar, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Nicolas Harris, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine
WANT! Created by Ayoka Lucas

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