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Getting the color right is probably the hardest part of any wardrobe. Most of us have our favourites – a trusty navy jumper, a warm beige coat that works with everything, a line of black trousers in a slightly different cut.
It’s easy to get stuck in that comfort zone of “neutral but safe.” But this season designers are urging us to completely rethink the palette.
Instead of winter’s usual grays and creams, new color pairings are bold and contrasting – for example, dusty rose worn with cherry red.
“Combining colors can be difficult, especially when colors sit close together on the spectrum or feel too bold on their own,” says personal stylist Lynn McKenna. Class“But this season’s pairings, including dusty rose with red, lemon with brown, and sky blue with camel, prove that contrast and confidence can make even the most unexpected color mix feel effortless.”
dusty rose and red
There was no concern for colors that were close on the color wheel before, but dusty rose and cherry red is one of the most popular color combinations this season. It feels feminine without being overly sweet.
McKenna suggests experimenting with layering and texture to make it work. “For a more confident way to wear this color palette, mix tones and textures for a less coordinated finish, styling a soft pink knit under a deep red coat, or accessorizing with cherry leather against blush tailoring.”
Knitwear Designer Cara Melzack, Founder kara and skyTakes an equally casual approach. “With this, it’s all about tonal dressing,” she says.
“Try a red cardigan with soft dust-pink wide-leg tailored trousers for that boss-girl look. Add white trainers for a more casual vibe, and finish with a little French Tuck in to give it some shape. Break up the colors with neutral accessories and a splash of red lippy to really make a statement.
And Other Stories Dark red knitted sweater, £47
jigsaw Kensington Barrel Leg Jean, £69 (was £99)
M&S Leather Stripe Trainers, £49.50
Oliver Bonas Emily Red and Pink Patchwork Corduroy Cotton Tote Bag, £52
Lemon green and brown
Perhaps a belated reaction to Charli XCX’s ‘Brat’ album, lime green is trending, bringing a refreshing jolt of energy to our autumn/winter wardrobes.
The shade is bright, gaudy but surprisingly sophisticated when paired with dark brown – especially Pantone’s Color of the Year 2025, ‘Mocha Mousse’.
“The trick to this color combination is to combine the zing of lime with something earthy, like a mocha coat, caramel leather, or even tortoiseshell accessories,” says McKenna. “It softens the fluro and gives a retro feel that sounds more luxurious than loud.”
In the meantime, Melzack suggests using accessories to keep your look wearable.
“Lemon can feel bold, so if it’s a little bright for you, keep it as a highlight with your accessories like bags, shoes or even a necktie,” she says.
“But if you’re ready to push the boundaries, wear a satin midi slip dress in a deep brown tone and layer with a lime maxi cardi.
“Soften the look with slingback kitten heels, perfect for any autumn date night.”
La Redoute Signature Ambroise Alpaca Mix Cardigan, £69.99
M&S Autograph Leather Wide Leg Trouser, £199
H&M Ballet Pumps, £19.99
sky blue and camel
Dusty sky blue has been dominating the fashion week runways and is set to be the next butter yellow.
Blue And beige may seem safe, but when styled well, it is one of the most sophisticated combinations you can wear. The coolness of sky blue pairs seamlessly with the warmth of camel, creating an outfit that looks pulled together without taking too much effort.
“These dreamy tones complement each other so well,” says Melzack. “To keep it from feeling too safe, switch up the colors and choose a pop of sky blue below.
“Wide-leg trousers with camel weave work brilliantly. Break up the beige with a tonal twist so it doesn’t look blocky, then finish with chocolate block-heeled shoes and of course a little French tuck for the millennial in all of us.”
Zara Long Trench Coat, £69.99
Cos Crew-Neck Cotton T-Shirt, £19
karen milan Structured Viscose Satin Stitch Detail Tailored Kickflare Trouser, £36 (was £119)
How to ease color
If your wardrobe is mostly neutral, introducing bright colors doesn’t have to mean abandoning your everyday style.
McKenna’s advice is to start small. “If you typically only wear neutrals, ease into the color with small touches, like a bright knit, a bold bag or even a lipstick that lifts your everyday palette.
“If this still feels a little overwhelming, try introducing prints that incorporate your usual neutral tones and a splash of fresh; this will help the colors blend naturally. After all, color is meant to improve your mood, making your outfit and your day feel brighter.”
Fashion, and certainly color, should never be intimidating. “If you’re used to wearing neutrals, the best way to try new color combinations is to be adventurous and push boundaries,” says Melzack.
“It’s amazing what a pop of color can do to improve your mood. Neutrals are great, but the only real way to test out a color is to just go for it. What could be worse than that? Getting dressed should be fun and bring joy to your day.”