Pale blue is the colour of the season, with high-end labels like Marni and Bottega Veneta featuring purses in this shade. Local labels Friends With Frank and Handsom are also embracing the trend, offering cosy knitwear. Photograph courtesy of the brands. The winter blues are often discussed as a feeling rather than a colour during the depths of the season. However, this year it appears winter blues are anything but dark. Pale blue is having a moment, with shades of sky and robin’s egg making its way into wardrobes.
In T Australia’s “Performance” issue, this trend was first noted in the theme of bags, ranging from ladylike purses to crossbody bags and stuffable clutches. Brands like Hermès and Bottega Veneta showcase designs that exude sophistication.
Speaking of performance, this not-so-gloomy shade has also been making its mark on athleisure wear. Nike’s latest addition, the Running Division jacket, is crafted specifically for cooler afternoon or early morning runs, featuring reflective pinstripe panels set against a pale blue backdrop. The water-repellent fabric enhances breathability, ensuring comfort without overheating. To complete your look, consider pairing the jacket with the new Nike InfinityRN 4 Blueprint shoes. They’re designed for speed and elevated comfort with a cushioned construction, and come in white with the signature Nike tick in blue, or available to customise to your own colour preference.
If high-impact workouts aren’t for you, explore Lululemon’s latest women’s performance line, Breezethrough (the label was also worn by Mimi Elashiry on the cover of our latest “Performance” issue). This new collection is designed for hot, low-impact exercises such as Yoga and Pilates – and is available in oasis blue. Breezethrough introduces a cutting-edge technical fabric renowned for its quick-drying properties and luxurious, weightless feel. The range includes jackets, bras, shorts and the brand’s popular High-Rise Tights.
As athleisure wear becomes increasingly popular for everyday wear, brands like Onitsuka Tiger are also evolving. Founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka in Kobe, Japan, the brand initially focused on basketball shoes before expanding into various sports footwear. Today, Onitsuka Tiger is celebrated for its blend of comfort and style. The latest collection features new interpretations of the iconic Mexico 66 with Mako Blue stripes and introduces pale blue accents in the new Serrano colorways paired with Pink Rave.
Transitioning from staple pieces to fresh styles, the T Australia editors are coveting Melbourne-based label Handsom’s Mohair Hood in frosty blue this season. This accessory makes a bold statement on its own and pairs elegantly with its matching cardigan. For those seeking lighter options as August approaches, Friends With Frank, another Melbourne favourite, offers a slightly lighter take on the winter warmer, its Chloe Cardigan currently discounted by up to 30 per cent.
While the trend has predominantly focused on winter, the popularity of blue shows no signs of fading, potentially extending its appeal beyond the season. Kiwi label Maggie Marilyn‘s latest instalment of the Where Wild Things Grow collection, shot against the backdrop of a crisp bluebird winter day, features flowing dresses and shirts adorned with delicate pale blue floral prints, designed to seamlessly transition into spring.
Pale blue also takes centre stage in the latest offerings from Scandi favourite Ganni, showcasing a blue twill suiting mini dress and matching blazer, along with a longer floral satin dress.
