This summer it’s all about color. The trends of 2026 seem to be largely governed by different shades more than fabric, volume, silhouettes, or prints. And the color purple, in particular, has a VIP invite to this party.
Both designer and affordable brands are betting big on the color purple—just as they are with intense reds and blues. And as with cerulean or crimson, we’re seeing the shade in its boldest forms. From accessories that add a surprise factor to any look to striking garments that blend unexpectedly well with other primary colors, it’ll be easy to make a statement this summer in everything from clothing to swimwear.
Want to know how to style the color purple for summer 2026? Here are a few tips.
Combine purple with other primary colors.
One way to stand out this summer? Mix purple with other colors that are as striking, if not moreso, such as cherry red or turquoise blue. That could be in the form of a print, as in the street style example here, or by color-blocking a purple miniskirt with a red top. (Maybe add in a blue bag for good measure to really go big.) The combination is explosive, but it works.
H&M Ruffle-Trimmed Crinkled Dress
Nordstrom
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Madewell Chiara Slingback Sandals
Madewell
Go for bold purple pants.
Your classic black trousers will always be there, but summer is the time to have a little fun with fashion. You can still be work appropriate: A white button-down looks just as good with purple pants as it does more obvious shades. Keep the cut straight and fitted—the color is enough of a statement—but don’t be afraid to heels with some flair if the occasion calls for it. The flower-sandals trend would be a particularly pretty partner.
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Ann Taylor Longline Blazer
Ann Taylor
Ann Taylor Petite Çağdaş Wide-Leg Trousers
Ann Taylor
Play purple on purple.
Instead of a total matching set, offset a bold purple piece with a top or bottom in a lighter shade like lilac. It still feels like a total look, but it’s more relaxed and fun. After that, keep the rest of the outfit grounded by going with accessories that are neutral but complementary like brown or black.
Polo Ralph Lauren Iconic Classic-Fit Mesh Polo Shirt
Ralph Lauren
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Kate Kasin High-Waist Tie Skirt
Amazon
Grab a purple statement bag.
A handbag or shoulder bag that reminds you of the early ’00s will brighten up your mood and your outfit. You can wear it with lots of color because this tone always adds and complements. Or on the contrary, it can bring a sense of fun to a monochrome or otherwise neutral look. The funkier the better when it comes to the bag itself—whether that means it’s fuzzy, full of fringe, embellished with rhinestones, or something else entirely is up to you.
Free-est Audra Midi-Dress
Free People
Kate Spade Duo Crossbody Bag
Nordstrom
Choose purple party shoes.
They can be flat sandals, ballet flats, or sky-high heels. As long as the shoes are in a bright purple color, they’re a total vibe. This summer you can wear them with everyday or special-occasion wear. It’s putting the wrong-shoe theory to the test in the most fun way possible.
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H&M Long Blazer
Nordstrom
H&M
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Pizz Annu Low Chunky Heels
Amazon
A version of this story was previously published in Glamour Spain.
