Peachy keen: Nine ways to wear a classic pastel shade

"Like most pastel iterations, it has the advantage of playing well with other colours. Breezier cousins like sage, lavender and cream are a shoo-in but combined with deeper partners like burgundy, teal, and chocolate brown—now we have a look."

A model walks the runway at the springsummer 2024 Simone Rocha fashion show. Photo Ben Broomfield

Thu, 01 Feb, 2024 - 02:00

Colour forecasters at Pantone have dubbed Peach Fuzz the presiding hue of 2024.

This gentle hybrid of pink and orange supplants 2003’s fearless predecessor, Viva Magenta. From joy and self-expression to community and self-care, the symbolic shift is evident. The question is why?

Research suggests that when our eyes connect with a particular colour, the brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals that have the potential to affect our mood and well-being.

Given the current climate of unrest, this marked shift to a more nurturing and tactile palette makes sense. The warm and cosy undertones evoke a feeling of empathy and a desire for togetherness–like a wearable hug.

So, how does Peach Fuzz play into our new season wardrobes? Easily it seems. Like most pastel iterations, it has the advantage of playing well with other colours.

Breezier cousins like sage, lavender and cream are a shoo-in but combined with deeper partners like burgundy, teal, and chocolate brown—now we have a look.

That said, a head-to-toe approach as seen at Simone Rocha is often a simple yet effective styling ruse, mirroring the colour’s subtle message.

For a low-commitment take on the trend, accessories win big. Try the cult adidas Samba sneakers with its updated trefoil, a pair of retro sunglasses (we’re still in the `90s era, folks), or a between-seasons blanket scarf.

Looking for an indulgent investment? Indie bag brands like Polène and DeMellier offer peach-perfect pieces with a polished edge.

In the meantime, I’ll be comfort shopping for an oh-so-soft knit and that wearable hug.

GET THE LOOK: