(Fashion)
This Elle Woods Trend Is Already Influencer-Approved This Summer
What first comes to mind when you think about pink? Maybe it's millennials, or Elle Woods in magenta, or even Jackie O’s iconic strawberry Chanel suit. However, how to wear pink for summer 2019 is the question that every insider is currently addressing. And surprisingly, in ways that aren't just ultra-feminine either.
Now that temps are beginning to skyrocket, pink is the hue du jour for pairing with warm-weather neutrals like white, cream, and tan. While it was a notably popular on Fall/Winter 2019 runways — Sies Marjan, ADEAM, Prabal Gurung, and Brandon Maxwell all showed designs with the bright hue — the fashion world is getting a head start on styling it now. “Neon and highlighter bright [pinks] were all over the runway for Spring 2019 and Fall 2019,” says Jessica Minkoff, Fashion Content Editor at Bergdorf Goodman. “Specifically at Balenciaga, Brandon Maxwell, and Off-White, pink was definitely a standout hue.”
For some, the color may seem intimidatingly bright, but for summer, styling with other electric colors like pistachio or orange feels perfectly on trend. “I keep seeing neon pink styled with neon green. I guess it truly is watermelon season,” Minkoff adds. She recommends treating pink like a neutral, "pairing it with everything from denim, to leopard and zebra print.” If electric colors aren’t your forte, styling paler blush with creams and tans is the way to go.
Ahead, you’ll find a handful of pink outfit ideas along with this season’s best pieces so you can road-test the trend yourself.
White Top + Maxi Skirt
Don’t be afraid to go bold with a magenta maxi skirt that has textural elements. A white top with ruffle detail adds to the femininity of the skirt without going overboard.
Square-Neck Dress + Platform Loafers
To add edge to a ‘70s-inspired square-neck dress, try adding a cool sock and loafer combo. A patent brogue or loafer works just as well in the summer as it does in the fall.
Satin Top + Leopard Skirt + Neutral Accessories
A leopard skirt gives a satin pink top a trendy refresh for your 9-to-5. Neutral, beach-inspired accessories make this look suitable for Saturday brunch in NYC and weekends in Montauk.
Oversized Blazer + Biker Shorts
Editors and influencers alike have proven that biker shorts are both gym and office attire. If you’re on the fence about wearing them to work, a structured pink blazer adds color and professionalism. Style with nude mules and layer your gold necklaces of choice.
Puff Sleeve Dress + White Sneakers
You can’t ignore the prevalence of puff sleeves this summer. To balance out the girliness of the look, style with a fresh pair of white sneakers and matching cat eye sunglasses.
Watermelon Colors
Summer 2019 is all about embracing head-to-toe color. To sucessfully mix two highlighter hues, try styling a tailored blazer over a flouncy dress. Now you can indulge in watermelon season, while being work appropriate.
Orange Top + Biker Shorts + PVC Heels
A biker shorts and tank combo is an athleisure look for the bold dresser. Mix two high-octane colors in similar light fabrics for a fun ensemble for your workout, and afterwards too. Sans sweat session, complete the ensemble with neutral accessories like PVC heels and a white micro-bag, and you’re ready to conquer the summer heat.
All Over Leather
Give your go-to linen pieces a much-needed break and opt for cool leather separates. Tailored leather shorts become summer-appropriate when styled with a bubblegum pink top. The tough leather and light hue strike the perfect balance between feminine and edgy.
Pink Suit + Metallic Shoes
For the maximalist, try a vibrant pink suit in a luxe fabric. The bold color feels very of the moment and is a suitable choice even when the temps rise. Finish with embellished accessories like hair clips and metallic shoes.
Oversized Button Down + White Trousers
A button down feels a bit less stuffy when it’s done in a pastel, airy hue. Try styling an oversized light pink button-down with white trousers for a sleek ensemble.
Crop Top + Bermuda Shorts
The hemlines of shorts are growing longer this season. Try a deep pink matching set and contrasting white sneakers for an easy ensemble that feels instantly polished.
Tie Dye Top + Denim + Matching Accessories
Lean into the tie-dye trend by picking a bold top that you can style with jeans. Match your bag and shoes too for a crisp, refined look.
Mixing Prints
Per Minkoff’s recommendation, pair pink with a zebra print for an unexpected, yet cool vibe. For the risk taker: mix prints by throwing florals into your look.
Tie Dye Sweatshirt + Slip Skirt
For a summer ensemble that is equal parts comfortable and chic, opt for a slip skirt in a warm pink tone. Throw on a tie dye sweatshirt to keep warm when the office AC is on high. Finish with a pink bag to tie the outfit together.
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