2017 Is the Year to Rethink Pink

Celine Spring 2017, Michael Kors Spring 2017, Gucci Spring 2017; Images: Imaxtree

Pink has been #rebranded. Once a symbol of dated gender binaries, pink is now the color of powerful optimistic statements — Trump-shading pussy hats, shapely, multiethnic Barbie dolls, a cosmetics company that values realism over illusion. Those of us who cast aside our bubble gum pink paraphernalia the moment we grew old enough to shop for ourselves — and those of who still loved the hue but grew sick of the vaguely offensive “girly girl” associations — now have reason to reach for our rose-colored glasses.

Pink was omnipresent on the Spring 2017 runways. From toned-down pastels to electrified berry tones, pink showed up at Valentino, Sies Marjan, Alexander McQueen, Molly Goddard, Gucci, Emilio Pucci, Celine, Prada, Givenchy, Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu and literally dozens more. Oftentimes it took the form of frilly, draped, sequined, satin or tulle-heavy frocks — but not always. At Sies Marjan, a velvety carnation button-down came accompanied by coordinating silky culottes. Haider Ackermann, Bottega Veneta, Erin Fetherston, Paul Smith and Creatures of Comfort made the case for pink power suiting. Dolce & Gabbana, Fenty x Puma and Lacoste offered up slouchy, athleisure-themed blush looks. Overall, the message was thus: Wear loads of pink and wear it however the hell you want (with an emphasis on tonal looks).

3.1 Phillip Lim Fall 2017, Oscar de la Renta Fall 2017, Valentino Fall 2017; Images: Imaxtree

For Fall 2017, the pink trend forged on. Much like the streets, the runways were all about colorblocking. At Valentino, Pierpaolo Piccioli continued to think pink, mixing flamingo with the brand’s signature red. Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia’s premiere Oscar de la Renta presentation saw fuchsia trousers paired with a geometric crimson knit. 3.1 Phillip Lim catered to the pantsuit nation with a paper bag-waist taffy suit that looked equal parts comfy and commanding. Proenza Schouler went with a more subtle crepe shade.

Pops of pink outside the recent Paris and Milan shows; Images: Imaxtree

Needless to say, industry movers (of all gender identities, but for our purposes, we’re showing you the women) are down for the pink cause. Our favorite show-side sightings featured matchy-matchy mixed materials or paired hot pink with denim.

Trust us, even the most glittery pink pieces are now considered neutrals. In other words, it’s time to have some fun. Below, 25 pink pieces to get you started.