Once the temperature outside starts rising, we feel compelled to introduce bright colors back into our wardrobes. Vibrant shades, such as orange and turquoise, always seem to end up among the mix. But for 2023, the trending spring and summer colors feel somewhat unexpected.
For example, neutrals, which are typically big during the fall and winter months, ended up gracing the season’s hottest runways, with black being a designer favorite for the summer. And after seasons of a hot pink takeover (a hue that, yes, is still going strong), we spotted a brand new interpretation of Barbiecore trend: a bright blue that the character would no doubt approve of (and has definitely worn before).
A great thing about focusing on spring and summer color trends instead of specific products is that it leaves plenty of room to showcase your personal style (no need to sport a maxi skirt if that’s not your thing). For those hoping for a quick update, adding a seasonal accessory to your look, whether it’s a tote bag or a piece of jewelry, is an easy way to join in on the fun. There’s also the opportunity to go all out, rocking one color scheme from head to toe with a monochromatic outfit. The choice is up to you, though, of course, we’re here to provide a little help.
Ahead, we’ve rounded up six spring and summer color trends to wear from now until September, along with a few great pieces to shop for each.
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Color Trend Summer 2023: Purple
There’s nothing wrong with a deep, regal shade of purple, but a lighter version appeared to be fashion’s favorite this time around: WSGN, a trend forecasting site, labeled “digital lavender” the color of the year, and the same shade even popped up on the fall 2023 runways, meaning you’ll get plenty of wear out of whatever you buy now.Photo: Monica Feudi/Brandon Maxwell
Color Trend Summer 2023: Purple
Dr. Martens Purple Addina Flower Oxfords, $, available at SSENSE
If pastels aren’t your thing, deeper shades of purple are a great way to ease into the digital lavender takeover. Acid-washed with a baggy, ‘90s-inspired fit, these eggplant-tinged jeans take the spring color trend into grunge territory and can be worn well into fall.
Levi’s 501® 90s Women’s Colored Denim Jeans, $, available at Levi’s
Color Trend Summer 2023: Purple
Quay Australia The DL 34mm Gradient Square Sunglasses, $, available at Nordstrom
Color Trend Summer 2023: Chartreuse
Green? Yellow? This color is a blend of both and perfect for summer. We can easily imagine slipping on this skin-baring Sergio Hudson look for a night out. Meanwhile, Miu Miu proved it’s perfect for the daytime, too, with an everyday shoulder bag in a similar shade.Photo: Courtesy of Sergio Hudson
Color Trend Summer 2023: Chartreuse
SER.O.YA SER.O.YA Celino Silk Dress, $, available at Shopbop
Color Trend Summer 2023: Chartreuse
Good American Always Sunny One-Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Color Trend Summer 2023: Chartreuse
Miu Miu Nappa Leather Pocket Bag, $, available at Miu Miu
Color Trend Summer 2023: Barbie Blue
For those looking for a fresh take on the viral Barbiecore trend, it’s time to embrace cyan blue. Not only did Christian Siriano’s Spring 2023 collection feature a bright blue tulle dress that reminded us of the doll, but Margot Robbie herself was spotted wearing the color in the Barbie movie promo images. Thankfully, your own look doesn’t have to be as elaborate or extreme — Stella McCartney used the same shade for a simple, oversized suit.Photo: Courtesy of Stella McCartney
Color Trend Summer 2023: Barbie Blue
Ganni Blue Sequins Midi Skirt, $, available at SSENSE
Color Trend Summer 2023: Barbie Blue
Lulus Tie and Low Turquoise One-Shoulder Knotted Skort Romper, $, available at Lulus
Color Trend Summer 2023: Barbie Blue
Bon Bon Whims Baby Blue Lucky Ring, $, available at Bon Bon Whims
Color Trend Summer 2023: Red
Technically, red is a seasonless color — it pops up whenever the leaves start to fall and is a mainstay during the winter holidays. Still, that didn’t prevent the bold hue from making a statement in Spring 2023 collections from Loewe, LaQuan Smith, Akris, and more. While all versions of red will heat up your warm-weather outfits, we’re leaning toward a shade with an orange tint, which feels especially fiery and fun for summer.Photo: Selwyn Tungol/LaQuan Smith
Color Trend Summer 2023: Red
Maeve The Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Pants, $, available at Anthropologie
Color Trend Summer 2023: Red
By Far Michele Mule, $, available at Revolve
Color Trend Summer 2023: Red
ASOS Knitted Halter Top with Zip Neck, $, available at ASOS
Color Trend Summer 2023: Gold
Think beyond layered chain necklaces and big hoop earrings (although those are perfectly acceptable interpretations of the color). This season, it’s all about the metallic trend — gold dresses, shiny swimsuits, and fringe embellishments, ensuring you’ll literally shine each time you step out of the house.Photo: Greg Kessler/Gabriela Hearst
Color Trend Summer 2023: Gold
Mango Textured Knot Handle Bag, $, available at Mango
Color Trend Summer 2023: Gold
Skims Metallic Swim V-Waist Pant, $, available at Skims
Color Trend Summer 2023: Gold
Molly Goddard Selene Gathered Metallic Lamé Mini Dress, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Color Trend Summer 2023: Summer Black
Cut-outs, ruffles, and eye-catching shapes are just a few ways designers have reinvented this neutral color, convincing us that while, yes, black is timeless and classic, it’s far from basic and boring.Photo: Courtesy of Altuzarra
Color Trend Summer 2023: Summer Black
Area Crystal Heart Cutout Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom
Color Trend Summer 2023: Summer Black
Rumored East End Top, $, available at Rumored
Color Trend Summer 2023: Summer Black
J.Crew Slim-Fit Vest in Linen, $, available at J.Crew
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