Not Burgundy or Espresso—How to Style the Instead Trending High-Value Color Everyone Loves

      As the burgundy and espresso color trends are soaring to new heights, designers are already planning their replacement. Let me clarify: I don’t expect these particular shades to disappear anytime soon and have started viewing them as essential colors rather than fleeting trends. However, during this past fashion month, designers presented a collective vision for a new It color that is poised to take on the role that burgundy and espresso have traditionally played in conveying a luxurious outfit aesthetic. Introducing royal purple, a rich and deep shade that embodies notions of royalty, wealth, and status, fittingly aligned with its name. Its history dates back to 1600 BCE when it was more valuable than gold due to the high cost of its production. By 2026, royal purple is primarily donned by fashion insiders who are often the first to embrace runway trends. This shade appeared prominently throughout the recent spring/summer and fall/winter 2026 collections at Prada, Céline, Valentino, and Miu Miu, forming the centerpiece of many runway outfits. Recognizing that purple can be a challenging color to style, I’ve compiled a guide to wearing it like a fashion expert, providing six reliable ideas for incorporating royal purple into your 2026 wardrobe.

      **Add a Touch of Purple**

      With such an intense color, a single touch of purple can significantly modernize an outfit. Swap out a traditional black bag for a purple one or choose a purple variant of a classic shoe style—such as these remarkable Dries Van Noten sneakers—to make the hue feel more accessible.

      **On the runway:**

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Celine)

      **On a fashion person:**

      

      CELINE

      Teen Celine Lulu in Suede Calfskin

      Dries Van Noten

      Suede Sneakers in Dark Purple

      KHAITE

      Lotus Mini Calf Hair Tote

      **Combine With Dark Denim**

      If your daily attire usually features jeans paired with a simple top, take inspiration from this Kallmeyer model from the spring/summer 2026 runway, who styled a purple knit top with dark-wash jeans. A colored top can make your denim outfits feel refreshingly current.

      **On the runway:**

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Kallmeyer)

      THE ATTICO

      Embroidered Cotton-Blend Velour Sweatshirt

      Khaite

      Danielle Stretch High-Rise Indigo Jeans

      Kallmeyer

      Eleanor Polo in Matte Viscose

      Citizens of Humanity

      Zurie Stretch High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans

      **Pair Purple With Red**

      If you’re ahead of the trend, you’re likely not just trying royal purple but also pairing it with a bold cherry red. This combination originated in a leather look from Miu Miu, and since then, trendsetting fashion enthusiasts have embraced this pairing of two striking colors. Although it seems like it shouldn’t work, there’s a certain magic to it that makes it fabulous.

      **On the runway:**

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Miu Miu)

      **On a fashion person:**

      

      FLORE FLORE

      Esmé Tank Top

      LOULOU DE SAISON

      Engel Paneled Suede Midi Skirt

      PLEATS PLEASE ISSEY MIYAKE

      November Trousers

      **Opt for a Statement Coat**

      Styling a bright color can sometimes feel overwhelming, but when you wear a standout piece like a coat or dress that serves as the main outfit, it simplifies the process for you. Just add some accessories, and you're set.

      **On the runway:**

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Valentino)

      Bottega Veneta

      Resinated Metal Twill Parka

      MARIA MCMANUS

      Leather-Trimmed Sateen Jacket

      COLLEEN ALLEN

      Twist Gathered Cotton Maxi Dress

      **Make One Item the Centerpiece**

      A useful tip for wearing any bold color is to select one colored item to be the focal point of your look. This approach works particularly well with skirts and tops, allowing you to pair the statement piece with classic staples in all black or neutral tones to spotlight the vibrant color.

      **On the runway:**

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Nina Ricci)

      **On a fashion person:**

      

      High Sport

      Billie Wool Sweater

      Fleur du Mal

      Juliet Lace and Silk Skirt

      Lisa Yang

      Juniper Sweater

      **Experiment with Unconventional Styling Pieces**

      The runway wasn’t just filled with royal purple—it also featured creative styling pieces, such as bloomers at Prada and leather opera gloves at Balenciaga, showcasing various experimental ways to incorporate the color. Try adding purple tights or a purple bra beneath a sheer top to display your styling expertise without overspending.

      **On the runway:**

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Prada)

      **On a fashion