As London Fashion Week comes to an end, the Pantone Colour Institute has unveiled the official colour palette that will shape Spring/Summer 2026 — and it’s all about turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. Pantone describes this season’s palette as an “eclectic display of colour” blending mood-boosting brights, expanded neutrals, and heritage shades with a modern twist. The result is a collection of hues designed to make fashion feel both wearable and exciting, with a focus on individuality, self-expression, and the beauty of everyday life.
“Colour can be functional while also evoking emotion. Colours for LFW Spring/Summer 2026 blend desirable familiarity with a subtle yet powerful sense of excitement, providing a gentle shift from convention that fulfils the consumer’s desire for a personal signature.””
The Standout Colours for SS26
The top 10 hues are a mix of vintage romance, playful brights, and grounded mid-tones.
Pantone 15-1905 ‘Burnished Lilac’ is a tinged and smoky lavender tone with a perfumed vintage feel. Pantone 18-1756 ‘Teaberry’ is a vibrant reddish rose, which injects drama and fun into the colour palette. Pantone 12-0824 ‘Pale Banana’ is a soft yellow pastel with a light ambience. Pantone 16-1459 ‘Mandarin Orange’ is a fruity, bright orange that lifts the mood. Pantone 17-3628 ‘Amethyst Orchid’ is a magnetic hue emerging as a symbol of visionary luxe.
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Black Suede Studio Jeli 100 Heel, $550. Resene Memphis Belle available from Resene ColorShops. Vivienne Westwood Sunday Dress, $1395. Jacquemus The Rond Carré bag, $1990. Resene Grenadier available from Resene ColorShops. Mecca Max Single Shadow, $11. Resene Ce Soir available from Resene ColorShops.
Pantone 16-6116 ‘Shale Green’ is a muted, earthy green with a dry mineralised appearance. Pantone 14-4124 ‘Dutch Canal’ is an airy blue with a breezy appeal. Pantone 14-1910 ‘Tickled Pink’ is a blending of soft sweetness with strength, while also offering a playful attitude that is hard to resist. Pantone 16-1439 ‘Caramel’ is a candied brown. Pantone 19-2410 ‘Amaranth’ is a cosmopolitan purple hue, which displays an aura of mystery and spiritual resonance.
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Resene Oxymoron paint available from Resene ColorShops. Kathryn Wilson Trixie heel, $349. Ruby Hazel Ruffle dress, $349. Resene Laurel paint available from Resene ColorShops. Coach Chain Tabby Shoulder Bag, $995. MAC M·A·Cximal Silky Matte Lipstick, $46. Resene Blackberry paint available from Resene ColorShops.
The Seasonless Neutrals
Alongside the bright pops of colour, Pantone has introduced six trans-seasonal neutrals designed to act as a timeless base to any look.
Pantone 19-3815 ‘Evening Blue’ is an open and expansive darkened blue. Pantone 14-4506 ‘Ether’ is an ethereal blue grey with an illusory presence. Pantone 19-1526 ‘Chocolate Truffle’ is a deliciously rich brown, which tempts our desire for luscious treats. Pantone 12-4300 ‘White Onyx’ is a light transmitting off-white with a soft, ethereal glow. Pantone 15-0535 ‘Palm’ is grounded and rooted, designed to cultivate an oasis of flourishing greenery. Pantone 12-0605 ‘Angora’ is a soft beige, which offers tactility with a silky, fluffy feel.
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Resene Valhalla paint available from Resene ColorShops. Gucci GG Marmont small shoulder bag, $$4,250. Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour, $77. Resene Jazz paint available from Resene ColorShops. LeDoré Rosette Blouse, $369. Resene Barely There paint available from Resene ColorShops. Harris Tapper Hiro dress, $599.
Why It Matters
This palette isn’t just about trends — it’s about personal style. Pantone is encouraging designers and consumers alike to reinterpret traditional colours, creating a balance between ease and expression. Whether it’s a breezy summer dress in Dutch Canal blue or accessories in punchy Mandarin Orange, SS26 is about embracing colour in a way that feels playful yet grounded.
Here’s some inspiration.