Mark My Words: Purple Is About to Become Spring’s Favourite Shade

Fashion has always been susceptible to “ugly” trends. From the once-ridiculed Maison Margiela Tavis to last summer’s split-toe flats, the pipeline from derision to respectability is well established. It extends beyond shoes. Awkward proportions, off-kilter drapes, and intentionally uncomfortable details have all been popular on the runways in recent seasons. Still, none of this prepared me for the return of certain trends, especially colors that I’m sure won’t be coming back anytime soon.

Deep, highly saturated, and reminiscent of the vibrant tones found in the sweet corners of the supermarket, royal purple is poised to become the dominant shade of 2026. Long ignored by this style crowd, perhaps due to our collective memory of school uniforms and over-the-top branding, this isn’t a color many of us were ready to welcome back.

To be clear, we’re not talking about the soft lilacs and faded lavenders that reliably pop up every spring alongside the pastels. This season, it’s purple’s flashier, richer sister that breathes new life into the Spring/Summer 2026 runways.

As seen across collections from Balenciaga, Valentino, Prada, and Celine, designers opted for full saturation, covering their models from head to toe in controversial colors.

The royal hue may be reminiscent of the late Queen Elizabeth II, who favored punchy hues, but this season’s iteration sees the tone in a more playful silhouette. Celine toned down the boldness of the color by pairing a shimmering purple mini with practical flats and a party-ready bag. Valentino took a sharper approach, pairing a knee-length pencil skirt with a mustard blouse. This collision gave the traditionally formal silhouette a modern, slightly quirky feel.

This color may be culturally familiar, but for many of us, it’s also clearly a childhood memory. If you grew up with sisters, one of you was probably assigned pink and the other purple. A long association with youth gives this shade a natural energetic quality, making it particularly suitable for energetic energies.

If you feel like you can’t do it all, a little Royal Purple can go a long way. Purple tights can elevate a black or gray look, and a thick scarf in the shade adds depth to a minimalist palette without looking too novel.