Now we enter the Year of the Horse 2026 – according to Chinese astrology
What does the spring color chart look like? Which colors remain the trendiest choice of the season, which ones are creeping back in and which combinations should we try in 2026? ELLE’s fashion team has done the big legwork for you and rounded up the colors that are dominating the season.
Which colors are trendy and will dominate in spring 2026?
- White/cloud dancer
- Tomato red
- The primary colors of the 80s
- All shades of blue
- Honey yellow
- Smaragdgrön
- Gold
- Light pink
Trend color 1 – White/Cloud Dancer
Spring 2026 fashion is dominated by strong color choices, but between the colorful colors you see a neutral but clear contrast. In fact, all fashion houses have chosen to show monochrome, stripped-down white looks for spring fashion – some even chose to open their shows with a simple look in white – reflecting a fresh start, a clean slate. There is no doubt that white is one of the biggest trend colors of the season. And the fact is that Pantone, which since 1999 has opted for a specific color that is expected to dominate the coming year, has chosen white as the big trend color of the year this year. Yes, at the top of the podium this year there is a white shade with the harmonious name Cloud Dancer. White, you may think, is it even a color? But the idea behind the choice is that the white shade should stand for something more than just white. In addition, the analogy of a blank canvas or page, which symbolizes innovation, is described Cloud Dancer by Pantone also as a light and neutral tone whose presence should act as a whisper of calm and peace in a noisy world. A color that invites you to relaxation and tranquility. That’s certainly something many of us long for in a year like 2026.
Trend color 2 – Tomato red
An intense and dramatic shade of red permeates the spring fashion scene like a common thread (literally). A distinct tomato red hue stands out when we look at what spring fashion has to offer and according to the fashion designers who decide the direction fashion goes, this spring season is all about coming from the toes. In the spring of 2026, the visibility of neutral colors (such as beige, gray and brown) will decrease and strong colors will become more prominent. We wear it from head to toe or mix it with other colors like the cheerful 80s. Or be directly inspired by the catwalk and fashion houses such as Chanel, where colorful is in balance with neutral. It will be a simple look, full of energy. Psychologically speaking, red is a color that can uplift our spirits and perhaps it is exactly what we need as the winter season turns into spring.
Trend color 3 – the primary colors of the 80s
A colorful, playful optimism for the future is taking over the fashion scene in spring 2026. The season is characterized by a color trend that draws its energy from the happy 80s. Fashion dares to mix colors wildly again – bright primary shades meet pastel and neon with a clear playfulness. The result is a palette that radiates joy, courage and confidence in the future. The color combinations feel both nostalgic and innovative, reflecting a strong desire to express personality and optimism in an era that demands just that. Bright primary colors stand out as the obvious choice of the season – whether you choose to mix it up or wear a colorful color from head to toe.
Trend color 4 – All shades of blue
From small blue to turquoise – and the lightest shade of sky blue. This spring we meet all (!) shades of the sea, while the entire blue color chart permeates the collections of the spring season. From really dark blue to clear, warm, cold and light. Looking at the catwalk, monochrome looks in a selected shade of blue dominate, along with patterned looks.
Trend color 5 – Honey
Sunny yellow, citrus or perhaps the trend name butter yellow? Best color has many names and in the spring of 2026 we can count on another name for the color in a light shade of yellow. For the spring season we can still count on pale yellow tones, imagine a soft honey yellow that feels fresh, cheerful and embraced. Inspiration can be found in everything from France’s Louis Vuitton and Chloé to Loewe, Sportmax and Bottega Veneta, all with a feather in honey yellow. And if we look very closely, the majority choose to mix the light yellow with a discreet pink detail – especially when it comes to a beauty detail. A powder pink manicure, a light pink lip or pink cheeks for a honey yellow look is all it takes to complete the spring trend look!
Trend color 6 – Emerald green
The emerald green gemstone inspires fashion this spring and gives both hope and new energy! The color is characterized as a saturated, light blue-tinged hue that is more brilliant than forest green, but deeper and softer than light green. At Alaïa, the green is infused with a cool, blue-green hue, while fashion houses like Balenciaga, Loewe, Versace and Akris are all pushing for a more vibrant and warm shade of emerald green.
Trend color 7 – Gold
Eyelashes, flappers and rebellious energy. Now we’re making way for the happy twenties in fashion. 1920s fashion wasn’t just about clothes; it was an expression of independence, elegance and a playful rebellious energy that still inspires contemporary designers. Now we’re seeing a comeback of rococo-inspired silhouettes with full skirts, pleats and ruffles reminiscent of the festive glory days of the flapper generation. And the details shine in gold! Think sequins, pearls, fringes and embroidery in classic Art Deco style, where each garment shines with movement and glamor in sparkling gold.
Trend color 8 – Light pink
While the spring color chart shows an array of bold colors with vibrant energy, the season is also imbued with bright color choices that provide a different kind of energy. In addition to light shades of white, yellow and blue, light pink stands out as a strong trend color and something we can expect a lot from this year when it comes to the spring and summer season. It is a playful but balanced pink that is set in 2026 and like the other trend colors of the season, the fashion houses show that the pastel color works best in a monochrome look – or together with other soft color choices such as honey and baby blue. But as always, the choice is yours and the options are many!
Photo: Launchmetrics/spotlight
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