If Not Looking Dated Is Your 2026 Goal, Try These 5 Color Pairing Trends Fashion People Are Wearing
It's giving It-girl energy.
Bold! Bright! Beautiful! Color is in for 2026, favoring ensembles dripping in vibrant, electric shades. The name of the game is punchy and striking, setting spring wardrobes up for rich, saturated success. The S/S 26 runways are serving as the ultimate color guides, and fashion people are taking notice. And though opting for acid green and strawberry milkshake pink may seem intimidating, it's simpler—and more fun—than you'd think.
The key is leaning into reliable color pairing trends, such as vivid violet and candy apple red. More importantly? Wearing the daring co-ords with confidence. And with seven fashion insider-approved color combos ahead, it's hard not to feel daringly unapologetic.
Cobalt Blue + Lime Green
Cool undertones create perfect harmony, while the deep intensity of cobalt blue pops against the zesty lime green. From suede to patent materials, this high-voltage duo was made for each other.
Shop Cobalt Blue and Lime Green Pieces
Candy Apple Red + Bubblegum Pink
Chanel S/S 26 showed us how it's done, presenting a sugared pink button-down shirt alongside a deep red skirt—and Elsa Hosk took notes. The model proves just how balanced a two-toned ensemble can be, pairing two romantic hues with sharp lines and structured silhouettes.
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Acid Green + Espresso Brown
Head-turning green juxtaposed with deep chocolate brown creates a stark contrast. It's a simple way to dip into the trend, relying on a tried-and-true neutral that's with something more bold.
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Beige Glow + Electric Blue
Effortlessly integrate color into your capsule wardrobe by adding pops of bright sapphire. When set against a soft buttercream, the ultramarine draws the eye, proving a thoughtful pick.
Shop Beige Glow and Electric Blue Pieces
Vivid Grape + Ruby Red
Red and purple sit side by side on the color wheel, so why not wear them together? This bold, photogenic pairing isn't for the faint of heart, but it's sure to elicit plenty of compliments.
Shop Vivid Grape and Ruby Red Pieces

Ruby Ford-Dunker (formerly Ruby McAuliffe) is a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle journalist featured in InStyle, the New York Post, Brides, Teen Vogue, Page Six, Shape, and more. When she’s not reporting on her latest fashion obsession or spotlighting beauty finds, she can be found listening to Taylor Swift, hunting for the best matcha latte, playing with her cats, or smiling her way through a dance workout. Email Ruby at therubybrand@gmail.com and keep up with her on Instagram @rubyymcauliffe.