Color Me Bold: The Shades That Will Define LFW AW25/26
There are two kinds of people in this world: those who see color as a trend and those who see it as a language—one that speaks before you do. If you’re the latter, buckle up because London Fashion Week’s Pantone Color Trend Report for AW25/26 just dropped, and let’s just say, subtlety didn’t make the cut.
This season’s palette is layered, unapologetic, and charged with emotion—because color isn’t just something we wear, it’s something we live in. It reflects who we are, what we want, and sometimes, what we need to be reminded of. And right now? We need boldness, warmth, reinvention, and a little unpredictability.
The Shades That Won’t Sit Quietly in the Corner
Let’s start with the attention seekers. Poppy Red is out for blood (in the best way), a red so intense it pulses with life. If passion had a color, this would be it. Then there’s Dragon Fire, an inferno of orange that doesn’t walk into a room—it ignites it. Right behind them is Salted Lime, a zesty green so electric, it practically fizzes. It’s the kind of color you wear when you’re feeling invincible (or at least want to look like you are).
Image Source: Pantone
Then, there’s Chili Oil, a rich, earthy red that leans into depth rather than volume, for those who prefer their statements with a little more nuance. And Magical Forest, the kind of deep, mesmerizing green that feels like it holds secrets—it’s powerful but doesn’t need to prove it.
Image Source: Pantone
And just when you thought the palette was all moody romance, Spicy Mustard comes in—warm, unexpected, and the sartorial equivalent of a bold conversation at a dinner party.
And let’s not forget Desert Sun, a golden, sunbaked hue that feels like late afternoons in Marrakech, warm sand between your toes, and a wardrobe that says ‘I just got back from somewhere fabulous.’ It’s cozy, yes, but it’s got an edge—a modern take on vintage sepia tones.
Image Source: Pantone
Then there’s Fanfare, a striking teal that isn’t here to play background. It’s bold, fresh, and full of momentum—think deep ocean currents, Art Deco opulence, and a color that thrives when paired with contrast. Whether worn head-to-toe or as a statement pop, it carries an effortless cool that refuses to be ignored.
Neutrals, But Make Them Smolder
Neutrals have been getting a bad rap lately—too safe, too expected, too meh. But this season? They’re anything but forgettable. Hot Chocolate is exactly what it sounds like—rich, enveloping, the sartorial equivalent of a cashmere hug. Chocolate Martini? Think decadence in liquid form—sleek, indulgent, with just the right amount of bite.
Image Source: Pantone
For those who prefer their neutrals with a hint of shimmer, there’s Bronze Mist, a color that feels like golden hour in fabric form. Fig, a shade so deep and juicy, it makes beige look like it needs a personality.
And then there are the understated scene-stealers: Crown Blue, steady, refined, and undeniably classic. Dark Gull Gray, the ultimate cool-girl shade—urban, effortless, and always in control. Wispy Clouds, soft and delicate, like the perfect winter light. Cumulus Cloud, a moodier, stormier take on gray that looks like poetry and feels like power.
Image Source: Pantone
And for those who want a neutral with just enough edge, Moonstruck delivers—a modern, soft-toned gray that whispers sophistication without trying too hard.
What This Palette Says About Now
Fashion is always telling us something about the world we’re living in, and this season’s colors? They’re an invitation to be seen. To stand out when we feel like blending in. To shake things up when routine starts feeling too tight. To step outside of what’s expected and wear something that actually makes us feel something.
So whether you’re stepping into Poppy Red confidence, radiating Dragon Fire energy, wrapping yourself in Bronze Mist intrigue, or letting Salted Lime chaos shake things up, one thing is clear—this season is about color with intent, attitude, and unapologetic presence.
