Wearing pink for a date seems about as unexpected as wearing sequins on New Year’s Eve. But then we saw gorgeous blush looks on Alexa Chung and Cate Blanchett, and we began to reevaluate our aversion to the color. Seen on the runways of countless cool designers (including Alexander Wang and Isabel Marant), this universally flattering hue is making a comeback that is infinitely hipper than in seasons past. We’ve rounded up plenty of inspiring pink outfits, from the red carpet to the street, that read “downtown” rather than “ladies who lunch”. Click through to see them all and snap up some of our editor-approved blush separates.
For more Valentine’s Day stories, gift ideas, and giveaways, click here.
Tip: A buttoned up shirt and pencil skirt combination make girly pink feel cool. Mussed hair and a leopard print shoe give it an edge.
4 of 28
PHOTO: Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic
Suki Waterhouse
At the BAFTA Los Angeles Britannia Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in November, Waterhouse wore Emilia Wickstead’s Miranda Dress (no longer available) with pearl detailing and matching pale pink pumps. The textured fabric and mock turtleneck bring the color into chic territory.
Tip: Barely-there makeup with a slick, low bun oozes self-confidence.
5 of 28
PHOTO: Xavier Collin/Celebrity Monitor
Cate Blanchett
Unsurprisingly, Blanchett took another red carpet by storm, choosing a Givenchy S/S 14 draped halter-neck gown for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on January 18th. The muted sequin trim on the bodice and halter give a futuristic twist to the traditional Grecian silhouette.
Tip: A modern cut prevents pink from feeling too sweet.
6 of 28
PHOTO: Karwai Tang/WireImage
Zosia Mamet
To celebrate the UK premiere of Girls, Mamet chose a strapless, blush jumpsuit from Elisabetta Franchi’s F/W 13 collection. The gentle color and rich fabric looked chic with minimal accessories and a brown, smokey eye.
Tip: A strapless, body skimming jumpsuit requires virtually no extras. Nude pumps, a stack of delicate rings, and a pave bracelet will do the trick.
7 of 28
8 of 28
PHOTO: Fashion Zen
Fashion Zen
This look demonstrates how texture cuts the sweetness of this color. Try a fluffy topper like this one over a basic blouse and skirt combination.
Instead of reaching for a camel coat, try a blush topper—like the Zara Studio version pictured here—to soften a leather shift dress and basic black pants.
Rather than relying on red or orange for a pop of color, choose a pink scarf and sunglasses to wake up your basics. Finish with a cat-eye liner and heeled ankle boots for your next drinks date.
The chunky, open weave sweater reads low-maintenance, while the blush color adds a dash of femininity. Perfect for wearing with leather pants or jeans for a casual date.
