Pastels In Winter? Absolutely

I’ve never before worn pastels in winter – I rarely wear them in summer – but this year I’m loathe to let go of a turquoise coat I bought at the end of the summer sales in Zara. It has a straight cut and minimal detailing, so very much my style, but it’s turquoise …

I’m an unapologetic fan of winter and in particular that season’s traditional colour palette: burgundy, navy, earthy greens and shades of slate and charcoal. Irrespective of trends, these colours are the anchors of my winter wardrobe year in year out. But in making my on-the-spot Zara purchase and having played around with the coat a little, I’ve learned that pastels actually work beautifully paired with warm autumnal hues. Shades of blush and candy floss sit seamlesssly alongside rich merlots, while teal and turquoise are a softening counterpoint to cobalt blue.

So I won’t be tidying away my turquoise coat till May. In fact, I’m on the hunt for something unseasonably pink to punctuate all that burgundy in my wardrobe, which now seems a little predictable.

If you’re also thinking in terms of sherbet shades, here’s a little street style inspiration.

Choosing a pastel item in a traditionally wintry texture will make it feel more seasonal.

Denim gives pastels a more utilitarian feel.

A minimalist aesthetic makes pastels feel less feminine.

The palest pink trousers pair beautifully with fire-engine red.

Wear something pastel with a couple of winter classics like denims and a trench coat.