Spring Trend: Luscious Lilac

Lilac has emerged as a prominent color trend, appearing on runways across various fashion houses such as Balmain, Issey Miyake, and Carolina Herrera.

This light shade of purple exudes a sense of serenity and tranquility. It has been notably featured on traditionally feminine garments like silk tunic dresses and voluminous ballgown skirts, further solidifying its presence in the fashion world. I wore a beautiful mauve printed dress by Emanuel Ungaro to my rehearsal dinner that I unloaded to a consignment store many years ago. Boy, am I regretting that decision after seeing the runway shows!

Pastel lilac is universally flattering for all skin tones and works well for both men and women. It’s an ideal shade for transitioning into spring, offering a refreshing change while remaining versatile enough for various occasions. Since it is complementary on most, it makes a good choice for bridesmaids, mother of the bride, and graduation dresses. There are numerous ways to embrace this trend without straying too far from your personal style. Here are some easy tips I suggest for integrating lilac into your wardrobe.

Color Blocking

For a bold take on the trend, try color-blocking lilac with contrasting shades from the opposite side of the color wheel, such as fiery red. Pale purple and red is an unexpected combination, but if done well, it creates an eye-catching and fantastic ensemble. If you want to play it safe, you can pair lilac with chocolate brown or navy. Try a navy top with a long flowing skirt.

Mix with Contrasting Elements

If feminine and whimsical isn’t your preference, balance the softness of lilac by pairing it with sharper, more tailored pieces. For example, combine a breezy dress with a structured black vest or blazer for a sophisticated yet fresh look. I also love the look of a flowing, floral print with a modern, cropped leather jacket in a neutral like beige or white.

Embrace the Femininity

If you are all-in on the ladylike look, start with a stunning lilac evening dress as your centerpiece. Look for one with ultra-girly details like lace overlays, delicate ruffles, or even floral appliqués for that romantic vibe.

Accessorize

Accessories are an easy way to add a pop of color and personality to neutral outfits without overwhelming your look. Begin by incorporating lilac through accessories such as shoes, headbands, bags or jewelry. If you are a fan of the hair bow trend, this is an easy way to add some color to your outfit. Try tying a pale purple scarf around your waist or the handle of your handbag.

Power Suit

For a chic and modern twist on classic suiting, opt for a two-piece suit in lilac. Keep the silhouette clean and simple, and pair it with neutral tops and sleek accessories for a polished yet trendy look. I love a suit for an important event such as graduation or a milestone birthday.

By following these tips, you can seamlessly incorporate lilac into your wardrobe. Remember, fashion is all about self-expression, so have fun experimenting with different elements and creating a look that feels true to your style.