We're calling it: Lavender is the It color of 2018. Sorry millennial pink, but with pale purple appearances on Spring '18 runways from Tom Ford, Tibi, and Victoria Beckham (to name a few), it's hard to ignore the pastel-adjacent takeover. Lavender even has the Rihanna seal of approval, along with Black Panther lead Lupita Nyong'o and Grown-ish rising star Yara Shahidi rocking lilac gowns on the red carpet in full support of the lilac hue. What's not to love about a universally flattering shade that looks good with just about anything, with your favorite denim or a bold orange lip. If you're not ready to take on loud ultra-violet, then these lavender pieces are your in to one of 2018's top statement trends. Shop our fave lilac finds from athleisure essentials and spring maxi dresses all the way to standout shoes and boxy suit jackets.
by Taylor Borde
1 of 13
Lavender Layering Top
Tucked into high-waisted, tailored trousers or a corduroy mini skirt, this sweet Free People top will look ultra chic. If the girly lavender shade wasn't enough, thin ruffles at the neckline and sleeve cuffs give this semi-sheer top more feminine flair for everyday wear. Just replace your classic white tee with this lilac layer to take on one of this season's top fashion trends with no fuss. ($48; freepeople.com)
Pastels aren't just trendy on the streets this spring and summer, they're bringing the heat to the beach, too. This lavender bikini from Byrds of Paradise at Tilly's pairs its sweet color with a fun ribbed texture that'll be spotted at all the coolest pool parties this season. We love the strappy back and the flirty cheeky bottom. Double down on the adorableness with a floral coverup or go classic with a pair of ripped jean shorts. ($34.99, top, $29.99, bottoms; tillys.com)
See everything through lavender-colored lenses this season thanks to the fabulous collab between Quay and Kylie Jenner, bringing us these glam cat-eye sunnies. Transparent frames and soft purple lenses are right on trend with the '90s styles we've seen on Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner up through NYFW. And so cleverly named "As If," we can't help but channel Cher Horowitz. ($65; shopbop.com)
Don't settle for just one, when you can get not two but three of 2018's biggest trends with one budget-friendly purchase. These Public Desire Satin Sock Ankle Boots tackle the Yeezy-inspired sock boot with a sweet twist. Satin and lavender tone down these edgy shoes for daytime, but can still shine under the moonlight with a subtle metallic sheen. Slip into these silky booties to instantly dress up a logo tee and Levi's outfit. ($56; asos.com)
Athleisure is still a staple in many of our wardrobes. And why shouldn't it be? Especially when sweatpants can look this chic. The fashion girl's go-to for a dressy athleisure look—track pants—got a pastel makeover just in time for all your spring outings. Kick back and relax with your favorite pair of sneakers or slip into white kitten heels and a crop top for a girl's night out. ($60; revolve.com)
We've been waiting patiently all winter to bring our flowy maxi dresses to the front of our closets. While we wait a few more months, make sure to stock up on at least one in this year's It lavender hue. We can already picture sunny summer days in this button-up maxi from Forever 21. We don't know how, but ruffle details and a thigh-high slit are even more flirtatious in this romantic lilac shade. ($28; forever21.com)
This retro style is making a hot comeback with kitten heels and flats in all colors, fabrics, and price points. So of course Target has the perfect pair of slingback ballet flats to satisfy our lavender craving. Wear them with a polished pencil skirt or dress up your weekend ripped jeans with soft suede and a metallic heel detail. At less than $30, you don't need to think twice. Just add to cart. ($28; target.com)
Workwear doesn't have to be confined to black, white, navy, and beige. Bring this season's favorite pastel to the office with this reimagined Striped Camp Shirt from Ann Taylor. Paired with dress pants, black heels, and a classy hoop earring, this lavender striped top can easily become a staple in your spring work wardrobe. ($70; anntaylor.com)
Logomania is still alive and well with branded shoes, bags, and sweatshirts repping our favorite designers in the streets. Why not take on the lilac hype in the same fashion? Cue this Acne Studios French terry cloth sweatshirt with the tiniest printed logo. We're suckers for anything comfy that meets fashion's latest standards, and this lavender sweatshirt definitely fits the bill. ($280; ssense.com)
In case you haven't heard, pastels are in for spring, especially so when it comes to sneakers. It's time to set your Stan Smiths aside in favor of a pair of dusty purple low-tops. These retro suede Adidas kicks are everything you need to add a little pep in your post-winter step. With a lavender, white, and gold color scheme, you wear wear them with almost anything, even that ribbed mustard midi dress you've been dying to dig out. ($90; barneys.com)
Take lady lavender to hot yoga, barre, or a weekend getaway with the Athleisure Weekender Tote Bag from none other than Target's own Mossimo Supply Co. Whether packing a change of clothes after a sweaty workout sesh or a carry-on with all your toiletries, this spacious tote can fit all your essentials without looking like a plain old gym bag. Even better, interior pockets give your most important items a dedicated spot so you're not stuck digging through this deep bag when you most need it. ($28; target.com)
For fall, the plaid boyfriend blazer was everything. Now it's time to let lavender have a go at fancy suiting. The key is to find an oversized jacket that doesn't look sloppy, and we think this one from Versace Jeans is the perfect fit. Not only is the structured cut super flattering, but zipper details and silver buttons make this blazer really stand out against a crowd of black and blue. (Bonus: This blazer is on major sale, so snag it before it's gone!) ($294; farfetch.com)
If you're not ready to make a major investment in the lavender trend, try this makeup method instead. Swap your basic charcoal for this lustrous lavender eyeliner with eye-lightening pigments. It'll give your eyes that wide-awake look (even if you didn't sleep a wink) by lining the inner corners of your eyes. As easy as it sounds, this simple trick can work wonders for tired eyes. (Pro tip: Purple eyeliner can work for anyone, but really makes brown eyes pop.) ($5; target.com)