I Just Found the Affordable Color Trend That's Khaite, Alaïa, and Jil Sander Approved

By Swedan MargenFebruary 16, 2025

Even though we're still deep in winter, my thoughts are already drifting to warmer weather and longer days. The image of crisp, sunny skies and chilly breezes has me feeling energized and ready to shake off the cold in favor of lighter, brighter colors. While spring is typically associated with pastel hues and dreamy, vibrant shades, there's one color every fashion person is looking forward to wearing come March, April, and May: powder pink.

This soft, delicate hue is poised to dominate this season thanks to the its appearances on the runways in September. Brands like Khaite, Jil Sander, Alaïa, and Jason Wu all integrated powder pink into their designs, opting for chiffon dresses, structured coats, and tiered skirts. Perhaps it's the Glinda effect thanks to Wicked's successful run last year, but everyone has their eyes on powder pink. Buh-bye, Barbie pink—this softer shade is in deep contrast to the bright fuchsia that took over summer fashion palettes in 2023.

Model wearing pastel pink dress during Alaïa spring/summer 2025 show.

Model wearing pastel pink dress during Jil Sander resort 2025 campaign.

Model wearing pastel pink dress during Khaite spring/summer 2025 show.

Model wearing pastel pink dress during Skall Studio fall/winter 2025 show.

In Who What Wear UK's spring/summer 2025 trend report, Carolyn Mair, PhD, fashion business consultant and author of The Psychology of Fashion, explained that light pink is evocative of simpler times given the chaos of the world. "Powder pink is often associated with softness, optimism, nostalgia, and playfulness," Mair said. "The trend reflects a psychological desire to reconnect with simplicity, childhood, and unfiltered joy, offering a gentle, comforting escape from adult responsibilities and societal pressures."

Although this color trend is reminiscent of elegant ladies of the '50s and '60s with Grace Kelly levels of sophistication, you don't need to be a trust-fund baby to get the look. Below, browse the best under-$200 powder-pink items to shop now along with some higher-priced designer pieces our editors can't stop buzzing about.