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That handbag is not just blue. It’s not lavender, and it’s not indigo. It’s actually periwinkle. This trending shade of pastel blue is a tricky color to pin down, similar to that notorious cerulean from The Devil Wears Prada. Luckily, though, it hasn’t stopped anyone from trying. This season, countless brands have introduced on-trend dresses, tops, handbags, and accessories in the fresh, spring-ready hue. Periwinkle is now in full bloom—learn more about this spring fashion trend and shop a few of our favorite pieces ahead.
About the Trend
Periwinkle, despite its trending status, is tough to standardize. It’s classically defined as a light indigo, but this vivid color runs the gamut from deep hydrangea to something more on the lavender side. (Read: This spring fashion trend has tons of versatility and range.) Pantone deemed a variation of the hue, Very Peri, Color of the Year in 2022, and periwinkle’s futuristic vibe might also remind you of the icy blues that took over TikTok late last year.
In Staud’s recent collection on the spring 2024 NYFW runways, we saw the playful pastel intersect with everything from ball skirts to tailored silhouettes—the latter of which seems to be catching on as a wider trend. In a recent TikTok, OG workwear label Ann Taylor deemed periwinkle "the new black" when building cubicle-ready ensembles.
Out of the office? New York brand Dàwáng thoroughly explored the botanical hue last year, dropping a collection of sweet pastel tops and dresses inspired by traditional Chinese designs. Meanwhile, periwinkle has been all over awards shows: After it-girls Ayo Edebiri and Olivia Rodrigo test-drove the shade in recent years, the 2024 Oscars red carpet included stunning pastel blue gowns on stars including Lupita Nyong'o and Da'Vine Joy Randolph.
When shopping for a periwinkle piece, pay close attention to the garment’s shade and undertones. Due to the range of periwinkle interpretations, this color might translate as something more blue- or violet-toned when shopping across brands, so it's good to think about which variation you're looking for. Ready to add this sweet pastel to your wardrobe? Below, see 12 of our favorite on-trend periwinkle fashion pieces to shop this season.
Periwinkle Fashion Pieces to Shop for Spring
All in the Details
Hoping to add just a pop of periwinkle? This variation of Brandon Blackwood’s fan-favorite Mini Kendrick handbag brings the perfect balance of saturation and sparkle.
Keeping It Casual
This versatile tee from Skims does it all, and the muted periwinkle shade is a great way to switch up your look from classic white or gray. Beyond the sweet hint of color, we also love this shirt’s soft, cotton-blend fabric and slim fit.
Put-Together Peri
A sweet periwinkle hue lightens up this classic vest silhouette, bringing softness and fresh visual interest to a staple transition piece.
Elevated Leisure
With the coquette aesthetic still going strong, we love unapologetically feminine pieces that elevate every situation from lounging at home to busy days around town, and this tiered tulle dress does exactly that. Pair it with accessorized sneakers and a statement handbag for a fresh spring style moment.
Periwinkle Priorities
It’s no surprise that Baggu has already picked up on periwinkle. This unfussy, pint-sized tote is perfect for brunch or weekend errands—and every springtime adventure in between.
Sweet Satin
Satin midi skirts are already a classic, but this surprisingly fun hem (and sweet pastel periwinkle hue) make this staple piece feel a bit more contemporary.
Step Into Peri
Slowly stepping into a springtime palette? The lettuce-edge cuffs on these Bombas socks only add to this color’s playful energy.
Back to Basics
Italian lingerie brand Intimissimi’s silky tops went viral last year—and for good reason. The lightweight fabric, pastel color, and minimalist cut are all primed for transitioning this TikTok-beloved piece into the warmer months.
Slashed Silhouette
Let vivid periwinkle speak for itself with this seamless tank top. The slashed neckline and cropped fit keep this Abercrombie & Fitch style squarely on-trend, but it still remains effortless enough to pair with a statement blazer.
Laid-Back Lavender
This sleek, fitted jacket lands on the more lavender side of periwinkle. Try spicing up a night-out ensemble by pairing the piece with a metallic silver skirt and kitten heels.
Feeling Blue
This vivid hydrangea slip dress from J. Crew is simple to style and layer. What’s even better? With just a few accessories, it’s easy to transition this piece from spring to summer.
Moody Mules
If you can’t bear to disrupt your neutrals-only wardrobe, these stylish mules should be on your radar. They’re elevated, versatile, and just a little bit funky—perfect for dressing up some low-rise denim or a monochrome sweater set.