Where Luxury Meets Pastels (Spring/Summer 2026)

How to Dress in Pastel Colors for a Luxury Everyday Look

For Spring/Summer 2026, designers are reimagining soft hues with a quiet luxury twist, proving that color can be just as polished as black, white, or beige. From Australian runways to the global stage, it’s all about dreamy shades worn with sophistication.

So, how do you take pastels from “pretty” to “luxurious” in your everyday wardrobe?

The Pastel Mood of 2026

At Australian Fashion Week Resort 2026, we saw “pastel summer” in full swing: pistachio green, lemon sorbet, sky blue, and fairy-floss pink in sheer silks, satin slips, fluid drapes, and textured layers.

Global color forecasts echo this energy—pairing soft shades with quality fabrics, thoughtful tailoring, and refined silhouettes. The message?  Luxury shouts ended in whispers of pastels this season.

How to Style Pastels with Luxury Appeal

Fabric & Texture

Choose fabrics that feel as luxe as they look. Think satin blouses in sky blue or silk camisoles layered under tailored blazers. Mix textures, smooth pastel against structured cotton or linen for a modern contrast.

Tailoring & Cut

Skip the skin-tight fits. A butter-yellow wide-leg suit or relaxed blazer instantly feels elevated. For softer silhouettes, balance flowy dresses with structured belts or jackets.

Color Pairing

Pastels shine when anchored by neutrals. Try a pastel-pink blazer with cream trousers and gold jewelry, or a mint dress with a tan leather bag and pearls. Keep it refined, don’t overload with too many pastels unless they’re tonal.

Accessories & Finishing Touches

The magic is in the details: a structured handbag, sleek sandals or mules, and simple gold or silver jewelry. Sunglasses with clean lines add a final polish.

A Note for Australian Style

In Australia, dressing luxuriously in pastels comes with its own twist:

• Breathability matters. Silks and linen blends in looser cuts keep you chic without overheating.

• Pastels reflect sunlight. Light layering with scarves or long sleeves protects from the sun while staying stylish.

• Sustainability is in. Many Australian designers are leaning into handcrafted detail and eco-friendly textiles—adding both ethical and aesthetic value.

Explore additional insights from Australian Fashion Week Resort 2026 here.

The Quiet Luxe of Pastels

Luxury in 2026 isn’t loud. It’s about subtle refinement—letting color speak softly while fabric, cut, and detail do the heavy lifting. When styled thoughtfully, pastels transform into your most powerful everyday luxury pieces.