How to Wear Pastels (and Not Look Like an Easter Egg)

We all love the delicate flowers and budding leaves that come with the end of winter. Just like florals, pastels have become synonymous with the spring season, but not always for the most fashionable reasons. Too often, these lighter colors are reserved for juvenile clothing, but they don’t have to be. So, what’s a girl to do with colors like lavender, mint, pale blue and ballet pink? First, don’t get overwhelmed. All pastels are in the same shade group, so they are easy to mix and match. Next, remember that your accessories can (and should) stand out. Consider black, metallics and even deep red in your styling choices. Don’t believe us? Let these examples show you how to wear pastels like a street style pro.

Pastel trend (runway manhattan)

Chanel's Pastels

Wearing a graphic Chanel top and woven tweed skirt, this street stylist goes all out with pastels.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
Pristine Pieces

Simply pairing pastel solids together always works. A belted lavender trench coat and a pink accordion pleated skirt make a vibrant statement, while silver heels add some unexpected flair.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Michael Ip
Lights and Darks

Model Sara Sampaio plays a serious balancing game with her barely blue duster coat and deep dark eye makeup. Really committing to the pale palette, she adds an ADEAM sweater and Chanel purse, both in pristine white.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Zach Dodds
Sister Style

Sisters Valentina and Chiara Ferragni wear matching looks to the Miu Miu runway show during Paris Fashion Week. Statement blues and powder pink accents are right on trend for the season.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
Neutral Base

Pairing some light neutrals with a pop of pink really makes your pastels stand out. Valentino Rockstud heels save the ensemble from looking too sweet.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Michelle Sangster
Frozen Hues

Brocade and polka dots make an excellent combination, especially in a palette of icy blues. Metallic accessories and killer shades top off this lightly colored look.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Michael Ip
Tufts and Texture

Snapped outside the Luisa Beccaria runway show, fashion journalist Nicole Fouque wears pastel textures and patterns.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Michael Ip
Graphic Blues

Horse print skirt and a graphic tee? Blogger Maria Jernov says yes. Sneakers and a Marni tote accessorize the pale blue and mint green combo.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
Don't Forget Denim

Blogger Anastasiia Masiutkina’s acid wash coat looks fresh in pastel blue. The all-over pattern works with cuffed jeans and lace-up heels.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Michael Ip
Pale Purple

Blogger Nicole Andersson poses outside the Jil Sander runway show wearing a chunky statement coat in mauve. The yellow pop of her tote and contrast heel of her ankle boots add an unexpected touch.

Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn