Pastels are the ultimate spring and summer colors—soft, fresh, and effortlessly stylish. But if you’ve ever felt like wearing pastels makes you look too dressed up or out of place, you’re not alone. The good news? There are easy ways to incorporate these dreamy shades into your outfits while keeping things laid-back and effortless. Here’s how to embrace pastels without feeling overdressed.
1. Start with Accessories
Not ready to go full pastel? Ease into it with accessories! A pastel handbag, scarf, or pair of sneakers can add just the right amount of color to a neutral outfit without overwhelming your look.
2. Pair with Neutrals
The easiest way to tone down pastels is by pairing them with neutral tones like white, beige, gray, or black. A baby blue blouse with white jeans or a lavender sweater with beige trousers creates a balanced, effortless look.
3. Choose Relaxed Silhouettes
To avoid looking too formal, opt for casual, relaxed silhouettes like oversized sweaters, flowy skirts, or loose-fitting pastel tees. Structured pieces in pastels can sometimes feel too dressy, so keeping the fit easygoing helps maintain a more laid-back vibe.
4. Try Muted Pastels
If bright pastels feel too bold, go for muted or dusty shades instead. Soft blush pinks, sage greens, and faded lavenders are subtle yet still give that fresh pastel look without feeling overwhelming.
5. Layer with Denim
Denim and pastels are a match made in fashion heaven. A pastel top paired with classic blue jeans or a pastel blazer layered over a white tee and denim shorts keeps your outfit stylish but relaxed.
6. Opt for Monochrome Looks
Wearing a single pastel shade from head to toe can actually make your outfit look more effortless. Try a pastel jumpsuit, co-ord set, or matching top and bottom in a soft shade to keep things chic yet understated.
7. Mix with Casual Pieces
Pair pastels with everyday casual staples like sneakers, graphic tees, or joggers to keep pastels from looking too polished. A pastel blazer over a simple tee and jeans? Instant cool-girl vibes.
8. Play with Prints
Pastels in subtle prints—like florals, stripes, or polka dots—can make the color feel more casual and playful rather than overly dressy. Choose small, delicate patterns for an easy-to-wear look.
9. Choose Matte Fabrics
Shiny fabrics in pastel shades can sometimes feel too formal. Instead, go for matte, textured fabrics like cotton, linen, or knits to keep the overall feel more relaxed and wearable.
10. Confidence is Key
At the end of the day, the best way to wear pastels without feeling overdressed is to wear them with confidence. When you feel good in your outfit, it naturally looks effortless. Own your pastels, and make them your own!
Final Thoughts
Pastels don’t have to be intimidating! Whether you’re dipping your toes in with accessories or going all out with a monochrome look, there’s a way to wear these soft shades that suits your personal style. Which pastel look are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments! And if you’re looking for effortlessly cool pastel pieces, check out my store for the latest collection.