Cool color combos were all over the fall 2026 runways. There was tangerine and robin’s egg blue at Prada, seafoam green and chartreuse at Tory Burch, and burgundy and pale pink at Chanel, to name a few.
But the runways aren’t the only place to look for clever shade pairings. Throughout New York Fashion Week, the verdict was clear: the fashion crowd can’t stop wearing royal purple and cherry red.
From Substack writer Jalil Johnson to Vogue Shopping’s very own, showgoers were layering purple crewnecks atop red button-ups, sporting jewel-toned jeans with playful red accessories, tempering it with pops of white throughout.
Consider yourself a minimalist who prefers neutrals over flashes of bold color? Don’t fret.
Wearing purple and red doesn’t have to scream loud. For example, style Cos’s long-sleeve purple tee with Tove’s statement red skirt, then add J.Crew’s khaki barn jacket and a sleek pair of Reformation pumps for the ultimate city-girl finish.
Alternatively, Auralee’s lightweight knit strikes a subtler statement when tied at the waist with J.Crew’s vibrant button-up shirt and a pair of autumnal corduroys from Agolde.
If you want to add just a hint of purple and red, find trending pieces that nod to the dynamic duo, but in a subtler fashion. Our favorites? Agnelle’s purple leather gloves, Johnstons of Elgin’s cashmere scarf in rich eggplant, and Hill House Home’s crimson floral pin.
Ahead, six ways to wear purple and red—a trend that may have begun on the runways, but has officially taken over the streets.
City Girl, With a Country Twist
Tove’s statement midiskirt is striking on its own, but we think it’s perfect foil for Cos’s purple cotton long-sleeve. Give the duo an utilitarian spin by layering on J.Crew’s classic khaki barn jacket, then turn up the fashion dial with Reformation’s polished white pumps, Tory Burch’s tortoiseshell shield sunglasses, and a Savette handbag.
Personality Picks
Fall 2026 dressing is all about pieces with personality—and this look is bursting with it. Pair Zara’s eggplant balloon pants with Gap’s crimson-red crewneck, then tie it all together with Ashlyn’s structured cropped lady jacket. Accessory-wise, go for maximum effect—and reward—with a floral pin, Toteme’s zebra-print ballet flats, and a suede Miu Miu handbag.
Rain or Shine
Sport mode gets activated in this next look, built around Aimé Leon Dore’s purple windbreaker and Co’s cherry-red cashmere tee—leave it peeking out underneath just so. Dress up the weather-proof combination with a pair of tailored grey trousers from Almada, staying on the fashion track in suede Dries Van Noten sneakers. Finish strong with silver earrings from Bottega Veneta and metal-rimmed shades from Jacques Marie Mage.
After Hours
For your next night out this fall, turn to this fresh-off-the-runway maxi dress from Cos. Pair it with Agnelle’s red leather gloves—practical for once temperatures start to drop and one of the season’s most notable accessory trends—then layer up in Róhe’s cheetah-collar wool coat. Jude’s mules add a dose of sexiness, while Khaite’s suede Audrey clutch brings in rich texture. Le Sundial’s Art Deco earrings will dazzle all evening long.
Calling All Prada Girls
In case you missed it, Prada’s spring 2027 collection was an homage to all things skirts. Embrace your inner Miuccia in the brand’s embellished red midi (a fall standout), Staud’s royal purple cashmere tee, and Liffner’s chartreuse tasseled handbag. J.Crew’s khaki trench gives the look an everyday feel, as do Jamie Haller’s classic black ballet flats. Finish with Side Eye’s tortoiseshell shades.
Fall in Full Color
Forget what you thought about fall neutrals and go all-in on color this season. Start with J.Crew’s cherry-red button-up, then tie Auralee’s purple crewneck around your shoulders or at the waist. Lean into the autumnal mood with a pair of Agolde corduroys and slip into The Row’s easy satin slippers. Julietta’s shell necklace holds onto summer just a little longer, while Alaïa’s royal purple handbag brings the color story full circle.
Shop More Red and Purple Pieces: