There's one color-focused trend that we're not waiting until spring to sport: pastels. While winter is great for bundling up and forging on in rich, dark hues, there's something to be said for the winter pastel. Sort of like the sartorial equivilent of frosty air, pastels mimic the look of snow and perfectly soften up a winter look. While pastels tend to be obviously prim and sweet, we're really into pieces with just a little bit of edge—a little unexpected. Mint is a good choice, as is light blue and pink. You shouldn't just limit it to a nice sweater, though you can. Pastels are particularly edgy when breaking up an outfit, like an accenting belt or strappy, pointy heels. Don't just wait until Easter Sunday to pounce on pastels, dig 'em out now and warm up your winter wardrobe with a little springtime fun.
Pastel Pretty: Light Colors Aren't Just for Spring
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Pretty in Peach
This lovely peach dress is the perfect transition piece: it'll look great with light tights and a big sweater now, great with bare legs and sandals later.
$84 at Topshop.
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Cozy in Mint
Pastels conjure up images of dainty pieces, but this chunky knit sweater turns that trope on its head.
$60 at Topshop.
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Carried Pink
The classic must-have satchel in a pastel color will stand out nicely in a sea of blacks and browns.
$193.49 at ASOS.
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Mint Steppers
We think these pretty, mixed-media heels are a great versatile piece, too. With tights or without.
$135 at Nasty Gal.
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Pale but Popular
Everyone's expecting you to have these Chloé boots in bright red, but we think the pale pink incarnation is just as nice.
$1,345 at Net-a-Porter.
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Tough Pastel
This Christopher Kane leather biker jacket is just so cool—and it will totally keep you warm, even in the coldest part of the winter.
$1,705 at Opening Ceremony.
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Safety Pastel
We had to include one more CK piece: this fun belt, which mimics the hardware of the common car seatbelt.
$120 at Opening Ceremony.
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Almost White
Are they or aren't they white? So pale they're almost colorless, these jeans are perfect for that ethereal-yet-cool winter look.
$187 at Shopbop.
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Pastel Classic
You already own the button-down in every other bold color, why not try it in a pretty mint?
$208 at Shopbop.
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Gauzy Blush
This pretty sheer lavender top would look rad dressed up or down. The price point is pretty cool, too.
$48 at Need Supply Co.
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Light Maxi
Top this cool light blue maxi with a cardigan and you're ready for the most bitter of winter weather.
$160 at Need Supply Co.
