I’m Not Emotionally Prepared for Summer to End—3 Viral Color Combinations I’m Holding On To
Inspired by the runways, these mash-ups are guaranteed to brighten up your warm-weather wardrobe.
Welcome to Put Together, Marie Claire's new fashion video series.
Every other week on Instagram and TikTok, Fashion Editor Lauren Tappan breaks down the season’s biggest trends—from celebrity style moments to runway standouts—and shows how to make them feel wearable in real life.
While autumn is right around the corner, I’m not ready to give up sunny poolside hangouts and weekend getaways by the shore. So, in the spirit of soaking up the last few weeks of summer, I’ve decided to incorporate the season’s most coveted color combinations into my wardrobe. Using the Spring 2026 runways as inspiration, I noticed that Tory Burch played into Y2K’s classic chocolate brown and baby blue mash-up, Chanel put a fresh twist on the viral bubblegum pink trend by adding merlot into the mix, and Chloé co-signed butter yellow and sky blue.
Ahead, I’m showing you how to make these runway-approved combos wearable beyond the catwalk. From polished nine-to-five uniforms to casual coastal looks, finish out the rest of summer in these vibrant outfits.
Chocolate Brown Baby Blue
Chocolate brown and baby blue is a Y2K classic, and it’s officially back. I spotted the pairing in both Staud and Tory Burch’s latest collections. Here, I'm wearing it in this sumptuous satin set by ALC, complete with a Mansur Gavriel bag and Margaux heels.
Bubblegum Pink Merlot
Bubblegum pink has been dominating fashion’s trend cycles for quite some time. However, Balenciaga and Chanel made the shade feel brand new by teaming it with rich merlot.
I put a corporate spin on the color combo by styling Frankie Shop trousers with a Banana Republic button-down. It's a sharp look that's perfect for long office days and post-work happy hours. I balanced out the saturated ensemble by adding neutral brown accessories, including Margaux heels and a DeMellier tote bag.
Butter Yellow Sky Blue
Butter yellow isn’t going anywhere this year—at least according to Chloé and Sandy Liang. These designers styled the delectable hue with sky blue for the Spring 2026 season. Of course, this combo works beyond the runways, too.
Pictured above, I styled it for a beach getaway with a breezy COS button-down, floaty Free People pants, and a Veronica Beard raffia tote. While the bottoms and bag are both sold out, I’ve found similar alternatives for you to shop below!
