Saturated Shades Are Trending for Fall, and This One Is Already Winning
As we saw in the fall 2021 collections, saturated shades are set to be one of the biggest trends for the upcoming season, period. A departure from the neutral tones that have really ruled the fashion scene for the past couple of years, it marks a tone of optimism that we could all use a dose of right now. We'll be seeing the dial turned up for just about every possible color—from electric yellow to cobalt blue to highlighter orange—in the 2021 market. That also includes red, which we saw in hypersaturated tones at brands including Balmain and Versace.
Fashion insiders have already been adopting the color into their wardrobes with cool red outfits that are inspiring me with fresh ways to wear it—whether paired with athletic shorts or a statement-making micro minidress. Ahead, seven red outfits that take a cool seasonal approach to the saturated color trend.
With Athletic Shorts
If you're looking for a comfortable outfit that still feels directional, a pair of athletic shorts is a great place to start. Add an oversize poplin shirt, tube socks, and sneakers, and you're all set.
Shop the look:
With a Bag
Louis Vuitton's Capucines BB is quickly carving out a name for itself as one of the must-own investment bags this season. Opt for a vibrant shade like the scarlet version for a piece that's both on-trend and timeless.
Shop the look:
With a Minidress
Ready to wear a revenge look? I can't think of anything that feels more spot-on than a micro red minidress and a pair of strappy heels.
Shop the look:
With Bike Shorts
Yep, another look that revolves around athletic shorts and a button-down top. This outfit formula is clearly popular among fashion insiders.
Shop the look:
With a Blazer
For a look that feels a bit more polished, you can never go wrong with a tailored blazer. The saturated red shade immediately makes a statement.
Shop the look:
With a Puff-Sleeve Dress
While puff sleeves started out as a trend, they're a staple style at this point. Grab a dress with voluminous sleeves and strappy heels to pull off this look.
Shop the look:
With a Matching Set
When in doubt, always reach for a matching set. It reads as intentional and cool, regardless of the trend.
Shop the look:
Next, see 30 new arrivals I'm obsessing over right now.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
-
Put Down the Black and White Pants—This Is the Richer Color You Didn't Know You Needed
Elegant and on-trend.
-
10 Outfits Europe's Chicest Dressers Are Wearing When They're *Not* on Vacation
Staying local is cool.
-
What You Should and Should Not Wear to Every Major Sporting Event
From a Liberty game to the French Open.
-
Just to Be Clear, *These* Are the Pants Fashion People in L.A. Are Wearing Instead of Basic Jeans
Spotted in Paris too.
-
The Coolest Outfits of Summer 2025 Are Actually the Laziest—Let Me Explain
Easy does it.
-
As Seen in Paris: The Two Color Trends Everyone Will Wear Together This Fall
Dua Lipa approves.
-
Aboard a Yacht in Sicily, There's Only One Sneaker Color to Wear With a White Sundress
Learn from the best, aka Naomi Campbell.
-
I Just Created 5 Incredibly Chic Summer Outfits From Amazon for Under $190
Cool looks for less.