Forget butter yellow and powder pink – 2026’s breakout colour is set to be far punchier. Chartreuse, the divisive yellow-green blending lime, mustard, and neon, has unexpectedly become fashion’s latest obsession.
The high-impact shade drenched models on spring/summer 2026 runways for Prada, Saint Laurent, Erdem, and Valentino. Off the catwalk, stars like the Duchess of Sussex and Emma Chamberlain have already embraced the trend. Shoppers are following suit, with Clearpay data showing surging searches and purchases for chartreuse pieces: trousers up 132%, jackets 89%, and tops 12% year-on-year.
“There is an energy and confidence in the colour,” says fashion designer and podcaster Amanda Wakeley OBE, “and it has a freshness that instantly lifts the complexion and the mood, which feels very right for now and for summer.” Despite its intimidating reputation, chartreuse is surprisingly wearable if styled correctly. Wakeley recommends weaving the colour into pieces you already wear regularly, such as a silk shirt, cashmere sweater, or suede shoe or bag.
The easiest way to make the trend feel cool is to treat chartreuse like an accent colour. A chartreuse blouse with relaxed blue denim, or a satin slip skirt paired with a crisp white shirt, instantly feels fresher. Wakeley advises choosing the right version of the shade: warmer skin tones suit golden-based chartreuse, while cooler skin tones look better with bluer undertones. Keeping the colour away from the face initially – via a skirt, trouser, handbag or shoe – can also help.
When pairing with chartreuse, avoid light neutrals like beige or stone, which can cheapen the near-neon shade. Instead, opt for chocolate brown or charcoal grey, which “ground it beautifully,” says Wakeley. For eveningwear, chartreuse satin or silk with black tailoring creates a sleek contrast. The shade also works brilliantly with equally bold colours like cobalt blue, poppy red, lilac or rich violet. “The higher the contrast the better,” Wakeley adds.
Accessories should be chosen based on undertones: gold jewellery enhances warmth, while silver gives a sharper edge. Minimal styling is best, as chartreuse already carries significant visual impact. Clean silhouettes and simple accessories help the shade feel elevated rather than overpowering.
