Though pastel colours are classic staples especially for spring, they are often and easily typecast as demure and romantic. This season however, we see an inspired take on these powdery hues. Playing with the textures, prints, and silhouettes, the hues are reinvented in a bold avatar, from sporty to grunge. Taking cues from runway trends and street style, we have a brave new take on our favourite cotton candy hues.
Metallic Accents Metallic details add a hint of bling without looking OTT. Try adding metallic accents to sweet hues like apricot or blush. You don’t want to be mistaken for a disco ball, so choose one piece in a light metallic shade and anchor the ensemble with a neutral tone like tan, black, or grey. Shop metallic accents here.
Peek-a-boo Strategic cut-outs add instant spunk to the most sedate pastel ensemble. Let the effect be unexpected—a shirt’s collar area, at the hip of a modest dress, or a tunic’s back. For maximum panache, pick a dress with cut-outs on the side or over the midriff.
Leather Finish If your closet lacks leather, it’s time to invest in that jacket you’ve been eyeing. Leather toughens everything, from pink biker jackets to your staple blacks teamed with dusty rose or aqua. Our favourite look—a pale laser-cut skirt for ladylike vibe. Click to shop pastels teamed with leather.
Strict Structure Form fitted and structured pieces need give pastels an effortlessly fierce update. Pair a suit with a crop top in honey bee or lilac palette. Or wear your tuxedo jacket with a striped powder blue or minty shirt and dress down with distressed jeans. Bonus points for leather accessories!
Print Chemistry Pairing solid candy hues with bold patterns can make for a surprisingly chic ensemble. Take your pick of chevron, plaid, abstract motifs, or even silk screened patterns to transition your look from charming to striking. Shop prints and pastels here.
# streettip Pastel colours, even at their most demure, will get an edgy upgrade with the right accessories. Choose from chunky statement pieces—a studded arm candy, body chains, or bold cuffs—as offbeat accents for a tantalizing ensemble.
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Lookbooks Pallabi Majumdar; Featured image courtesy H&M
