For Spring/Summer 2025, pastel hues such as powder blue, cherry blossom pink, and mint green dominated the major runways. Beyond being a color trend, pastel also symbolizes the perfect balance between elegance and sweetness. An outfit in this style can transform any look into a gentle, dreamy “fantasy” while still being trendy.
Pastel-colored outfits exude a gentle and feminine charm.
So, how can you rock pastel without looking washed out? Here are five “keys” to mastering the pastel style elegantly and timelessly. And if you’re unsure about color coordination, check out these simple outfit formulas below.
5 Keys to Conquering the Pastel Style Elegantly and Timelessly
1. Opt for light shades with low saturation
The core essence of the pastel style is gentleness and purity. Colors with low saturation, such as powder pink, light yellow, baby blue, mint green, lilac, or lavender, are the “starting point” to creating a dreamy appearance. Unlike the vibrant and sweet macaron shades, pastel leans towards a peaceful, soft, and clean aesthetic—providing a gentle and pleasant visual effect.
These bright yet low-saturation shades make women look brighter and more ethereal.
2. Choose flowy and lightweight fabrics
To achieve the fairy tale-like and ethereal aesthetic of the pastel style, fabric choice is crucial. Lightweight and flowy fabrics like chiffon, lace, satin, or tulle not only create layers but also impart a soft, oil painting-like effect to the overall look.
Imagine a sheer yellow blouse with ruffled details paired with delicate tulle socks—this ensemble alone is enough to make you feel like you’re strolling through a romantic summer dream.
Lightweight fabrics accentuate the femininity of pastel colors.
3. Embellish with sweet details: bows, ruffles, puffed sleeves, or 3D flowers
Pastel style isn’t just about the color palette; it’s also a realm of whimsical details. From bows and ruffles to 3D floral patterns, these elements elevate the outfit into something magical and fairy tale-like.
Puffed sleeves are a classic example: adding 3D rose patterns to the sleeve hems, even a simple white dress can retain its elegance and femininity without being monotonous.
Feminine details embody the essence of the Pastel Style.
4. Wear a monochromatic outfit
A monochromatic pastel ensemble is a simple yet effective way to elevate your style. A flowing pink dress with a bow-tied shoulder and subtle lotus leaf patterns evokes a gentle, dreamy vibe while exuding a unique charm. Coordinating the colors also makes the outfit more cohesive and sophisticated.
If you’re unsure about color coordination, a monochromatic pastel outfit is a safe and stylish choice.
5. Start with small accessories if you’re hesitant to stand out
If you’re not ready to dive headfirst into a head-to-toe pastel look, start with small accessories. Pearl hair accessories, bow-tied necklaces, or pastel-toned bags are subtle yet stylish ways to incorporate the pastel style into your daily outfits.
Some suggestions for coordinating pastel outfits
1. Combine with white for an effortlessly gentle look
If you’re new to the world of pastel, start with white—a neutral shade that enhances the sophistication and subtlety of pastel hues. Try pairing a white satin camisole with a delicate pink chiffon skirt. Complete the look with a soft pink bag and a headpiece adorned with 3D roses in the same shade. This ensemble will make you feel like you’re floating in a sweet dream, embodying the “pastel girl” aesthetic perfectly.
2. Blush pink and baby blue for a harmonious look
The blend of the two sweetest pastel shades creates a visually pleasing and eye-catching effect. A pink gilet with 3D floral details, paired with a basic white t-shirt and floral shorts, evokes a romantic cottagecore vibe. Add a light blue bag and layers of sheer socks, and you’ll effortlessly transform into a modern muse, exuding femininity and style.
3. Mint green and goose yellow for a refreshing twist
In the world of pastel, the duo of mint green and light yellow is a favorite for its fresh and vibrant appeal. A figure-hugging yellow floral top paired with mint green lace “cake” shorts is a perfect combo to showcase your silhouette.
4. Blush pink and goose yellow for a dreamy summer look
The combination of delicate pink and translucent yellow creates a dreamy and feminine aesthetic for summer. A flowing yellow voile dress with thin straps and subtle ruffled hems evokes a romantic and ethereal vibe. When paired with a trendy pink pastel bag and white ankle boots, the outfit exudes elegance and embodies the “Pastel Style” essence—pure, gentle, and modern.
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