Summer is a wonderfully vibrant season, but there are a few shades in particular that you’ll soon be seeing everywhere you look. Searches for these six hues have been steadily growing in popularity on the global shopping platforms Lyst and ShopStyle for some time now, and a quick scroll through Instagram reveals lots of influencers are already incorporating them into their summer wardrobes. Here, the top color trends to keep an eye on, plus tips on how to wear them no matter your style.
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The Top 6 Color Trends to Mix and Match This Summer
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1. yellow
Although pale buttery yellows are also trending, it’s the bright sunshine hues we’re most excited about this summer. Not quite highlighter bright, these pops of yellow still grab your attention (in the best way) and stand out from the crowd, whether you opt for a smaller dose with some colorful sneakers or a head-to-toe yellow ‘fit. Folks often assume yellow is a hard color to pull off, but the trick is just to find the right shade for your skin tone. Those with cool undertones look best in daffodil, lemon or super-bright yellow, while buttercup, goldenrod and honey hues work better on those with warm undertones.
Shop the trend: Banana Republic Linen Blazer ($230) and Linen Pants ($120); Vince Camuto Chiffon Top ($59); J.Crew Tie-Front Sweater ($198); River Island Cotton Midi Dress ($75)
2. pale Purple
Very Peri was selected as Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2022, and the brand’s predication has definitely proved accurate. Tons of brands, both high-end and low, have been highlighting this delicate shade with gorgeous periwinkle dresses, lilac handbags and even lavender denim. The best way to embrace pale purples is by sporting them in larger swaths—think midi dresses, long-sleeve blouses or oversize tote bags—rather than small pops, to really get the most out of these pastel hues.
Shop the trend: The Kooples Midi Dress ($425; $149); Agolde Baggy Taper Jeans ($198); JW Pei Lily Shoulder Bag ($69); Vince Pleated Dress ($495)
3. lime
Last year was all about emerald and sage greens, but this year there’s another shade reigning supreme: lime. (And also Kelly, but more on that later.) This citrusy hue isn’t exactly neon, though it’s close, and is not recommended for those who want to blend in. In fact, we suggest surrendering the spotlight to this super-bright tone and keeping all other elements of your look neutral to really allow it to shine. Or you can try pastels and paler shades for a subtle color addition.
Shop the trend: Norma Kamali Single-Breasted Blazer ($285); A.W.A.K.E. MODE Charlie Flats ($); River Island Slip Dress ($68); Agolde Bea Organic Cotton Tank ($98); Show Me Your Mumu Jasmine Halter Dress ($148)
4. bright Pink
Barbie’s signature hue has been trending for a few years now, and we don’t expect the hype to die down any time soon. To be honest we’re not at all surprised, given how universally flattering the color is and how easy it is to wear. Go for pink all-over with a flowy maxi dress or wide-leg trousers, or opt for a smaller pop by way of a mini handbag or strappy sandals. Either way, this cheery shade is sure to bring a smile to your face every time you catch your reflection.
Shop the trend: Lulus Lost in Paradise Maxi Dress ($64; $55); Rothy’s The Point Flats ($145); Boden Edie Tulle Top ($120); Furla Linea Futura Mini Bag ($248); Old Navy Flutter-Sleeve Printed Tiered Midi Dress ($50; $36); Amanda Uprichard Tyler Top ($180)
5. sunset Orange
No offense to Elle Woods, but we’re calling it—orange is the new pink. At the very least it’s not “truly heinous” and in fact is great for enhancing a summer-time glow without the need for excess bronzer. The easiest way to pull off orange is by pairing it with shades of white for a creamsicle effect. But the hue looks surprisingly great with almost every other color we can think of, including the five other hot shades on this list, meaning you can’t really go wrong with a spot of orange incorporated somewhere in your outfit.
Shop the trend: & Other Stories Cotton Shirt ($99); Extro & Vert Mini Skirt ($40); 525 Square Neck Tank ($88); Rhode Casey Dress ($410); House of Want Newbie Bag ($78); ASOS Floral Jacquard Dress ($60)
6. kelly Green
Lime may be the most popular shade of green right now, but Kelly is a very close second. It’s still a wonderfully bold color, but is a touch easier to wear than citrus-inspired lime and is more flattering on a wider range of skin tones. And while it also looks lovely mixed with other hues, like blues, purples and even pinks, we think Kelly green shines brightest next to neutral tones like white, black or beige. Try a true stand-out piece, like a matching set, trench coat or maxi dress to really embrace this lush hue.
Shop the trend: Reformation Alva Jumpsuit ($218); Good American ‘90s Carpenter Jeans ($129); Y-3 Bucket Hat ($80); Velvet Farrah Dress ($179); Jurate Chain Heart Pendant Necklace ($123); CeCe Ruffle Sleeve Blouse ($49)