Meet Vanilla Yellow: The Next Big Color Trend That’s Going to Be Popping Up Everywhere

Over the past few years, we’ve seen the fashion world take a subtle step away from subdued neutrals and quiet minimalism and toward color, maximalism, and dopamine dressing. It seems like color after color has been the new “it” hue. There was cherry red, burgundy, purple, butter yellow, and so on. Now, let me introduce you to the latest color trend: vanilla yellow, the older, sophisticated sister of butter yellow.

While butter yellow is punchy, playful, and more saturated, vanilla yellow is custard-like and muted—almost a neutral—and brings a depth and warmth to any look. But don’t get it twisted: Vanilla yellow is not a boring color. It’s grounded, but can add the kind of dimension to an outfit that immediately makes it feel intentional and elevated.

As we start becoming vaguely aware of fall on the horizon, vanilla yellow should be kept top of mind as a color than can seamlessly transition between seasons. Pair it with bright blue or cherry red for an end-of-summer look, then with burgundy or chocolate brown for an effortless fall outfit. Below, I’m breaking down exactly how to style the vanilla yellow trend, including colors to pair it with and the best fashion pieces to shop now.

How to Style the Vanilla Yellow Trend

With a denim top

Perhaps the easiest and safest way to style vanilla yellow is with denim. If you want to mix it up a little, swap what you’d typically go for (a top and jeans) for vanilla yellow pants or a skirt and a denim top. Keep it simple with your favorite basics, or add some fun accessories to make the look a bit more playful.

As a layering piece

In case you haven’t heard yet, lace layers are back in a major way. The subtleness of vanilla yellow makes it the perfect shade for wearing a long lace cami or dress under a top.

With white pants

Lean into the effortless, beachy look of vanilla yellow by wearing it with a pair of white pants. Pairing this look with a red flip-flop has ultimate cool girl energy, but you could also go for your favorite neutral sandals.

Colors to Pair with Vanilla Yellow

Chocolate Brown

This color combination is truly one of the most scrumptious out there. The warmth and contrast between these two tones makes for a look that instantly feels high-fashion but wearable.

Cherry Red

Primary color combinations are huge this year. Pairing yellow with red makes a major statement, but vanilla yellow brings it down a tad and makes it feel a lot more approachable.

Rich Blue

Another primary color combo, yellow and blue feels serene, soft, and fashion-forward. You could opt for vanilla yellow and baby blue, but I really love the depth a rich, royal blue brings to the more muted shade of yellow.

Vanilla Yellow Fashion Pieces to Shop

Clothing

Reformation

Meet Vanilla Yellow: The Next Big Color Trend That’s Going to Be Popping Up Everywhere

How to Style the Vanilla Yellow Trend

With a denim top

As a layering piece

With white pants

Colors to Pair with Vanilla Yellow

Chocolate Brown

Cherry Red

Rich Blue

Vanilla Yellow Fashion Pieces to Shop

Clothing

Shoes and Accessories

Jessica Welsh, Senior Fashion & Beauty Editor

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