The Colour Trends Dominating Fashion in 2026
Every year brings a fresh colour palette, and 2026 is no exception. This year, fashion is moving away from the muted, neutral-heavy palettes we saw in recent years and embracing shades that feel alive, expressive, and unapologetically bold. Whether you're putting together a going-out look or refreshing your everyday wardrobe, understanding this year's colour trends will help you stay ahead of the curve — and look amazing doing it.
From the runways of Milan and Paris to the streets of Sydney, here are the colours you'll be seeing everywhere this year, plus how to style them with After Five pieces.
Cherry Red: The Colour of the Year
If you follow fashion at all, you've already noticed — red is everywhere. But not just any red. 2026 is all about cherry red: a deep, rich, slightly berry-toned shade that feels luxurious and commanding. Pantone's trending palettes for the year lean heavily into warm, saturated tones, and cherry red sits right at the top.
Cherry red works beautifully for going-out fashion because it's inherently attention-grabbing without being over the top. A cherry red corset top paired with black trousers is the kind of outfit that stops people in their tracks.
How to Wear Cherry Red
- Monochrome moment: Go head-to-toe in varying shades of red for maximum impact
- With black: The classic pairing — red top, black bottoms, done
- With denim: A cherry red top with blue jeans is effortlessly cool
- As an accent: If full red feels bold, try red accessories with a neutral outfit
Butter Yellow: Soft, Warm, and Everywhere
On the softer side of the spectrum, butter yellow is emerging as one of 2026's most wearable trends. It's warmer than lemon, more sophisticated than neon, and flattering on virtually every skin tone. This shade channels optimism and warmth — perfect for spring racing events, garden parties, or a brunch with the girls.
Butter yellow looks stunning when paired with white, cream, or even lavender. For a night out, try a butter yellow top with a metallic skirt for an unexpected but gorgeous combination.
Cobalt Blue: Bold and Electric
Cobalt blue has been steadily building momentum, and 2026 is the year it truly takes centre stage. This vivid, electric blue makes an instant statement and photographs like a dream (hello, Instagram-worthy outfits). It's confident, modern, and undeniably eye-catching.
For going-out fashion, cobalt is a brilliant alternative to classic black. A cobalt blue Bell Top with white trousers? Chef's kiss. Or pair it with the Sabie Skirt for a colour-blocked outfit that's giving main character energy.
Cobalt Blue Styling Ideas
- Colour blocking: Pair cobalt with hot pink or tangerine for a fashion-forward look
- With neutrals: Cobalt + cream or beige creates a polished, elevated outfit
- All blue: Mix different shades of blue for a tonal look that's incredibly chic
- With metallics: Silver accessories with cobalt blue = pure magic
Espresso Brown: Rich, Warm, and Luxe
The "espresso" trend that started in beauty (think espresso makeup) has fully crossed over into fashion. Rich, chocolatey brown tones are being seen on everything from leather pants to corset tops, and they feel inherently expensive. Espresso brown is the new neutral — but with so much more depth than beige or grey.
This colour works brilliantly for autumn/winter going-out looks. An espresso brown corset paired with gold jewellery and caramel-toned heels creates a monochromatic look that screams quiet luxury but with personality.
Lilac and Soft Lavender: The Feminine Touch
Soft purples continue to hold their place in 2026's colour story. Lilac and lavender are romantic, dreamy, and incredibly versatile. These shades work beautifully for everything from casual weekend outfits to cocktail party dressing.
For a fresh take, pair a lilac top with dark denim for an easy daytime look, or style it with a matching skirt for a tonal outfit that's effortlessly put-together. The Georgia Corset Top in lighter tones would be perfect for channelling this colour trend.
Building a Colour-Confident Wardrobe
Embracing colour doesn't mean overhauling your entire wardrobe overnight. Here's how to start:
- Start with one bold piece: A colourful top is the easiest entry point — you can pair it with black or denim bottoms you already own
- Build around neutrals: One colourful item against a neutral outfit makes the colour pop even more
- Don't be afraid to clash: Colour blocking (pairing complementary bold colours) is very much on-trend in 2026
- Match your mood: Wear red when you want confidence, yellow when you want joy, blue when you want to command attention
Metallic Everything: Silver, Gold, and Beyond
Technically not a "colour," but metallics deserve a mention because they are absolutely dominating going-out fashion in 2026. Silver, gold, rose gold, and holographic finishes are showing up on corset tops, mini skirts, and dresses. For a night out, there's nothing that catches the light — and compliments — quite like a metallic piece.
The Glamorous Sparkle Corset is the perfect way to tap into this trend. Wear it as a standalone top with high-waisted jeans for a "I didn't try too hard but still look incredible" vibe, or dress it up with a sleek skirt for full glam.
Your Colourful Era Starts Now
2026 is the year to step outside your comfort zone and let colour do the talking. Whether you gravitate towards bold cherry red, soft butter yellow, or shimmering metallics, the key is choosing shades that make you feel confident and excited to get dressed.
After Five's collection features pieces in this year's hottest shades — designed for women who want to make an entrance. Ready to add some colour to your rotation?
👉 Explore After Five's latest collection and find your new favourite shade.