Shop Melissa Rivers-Approved Pastel Colors Trend

Color for summer shouldn’t be groundbreaking, but over the last few years of minimalist-forward trend cycles, it seemed as though poppy hues were completely abandoned during the warm-weather months, and seemingly categorized as cheugy.

However, to my delight, Joan Rivers’ daughter Melissa told me months ago that “pastels in every shade” were about to blow up—and, now that celebs like Oprah, Hailey Bieber, Jennifer Lopez, and Mariska Hargitay are rotating through the butter yellows and breezy blues, it’s safe to say the rainbow is so back but in a much chicer way.

“Pastels feel fresh this season without feeling overly sweet,” the fashion expert explained, adding that “the shades are softer and more sophisticated” and “adding a pastel scarf or handbag can refresh pieces already in your closet.”

So, I’m hopping on the trend ASAP with Quince’s affordable, luxury-caliber pieces starting at $32.

Butter Yellow

If color intimidates you, butter yellow is an easy way in, because it’ll bring an element of brightness while still functioning like an understated neutral. This just-dropped shoulder bag from Quince reminds me of styles from Gucci and Coach for a fraction of the price, featuring a supple Italian leather design, internal pockets, and a handy strap that converts it to a crossbody for summer adventures.

Powder Pink

Baby pink is one of the few pops of color you can wear year-round, so I’m grabbing it in an equally seasonless staple: ballet flats. This editor-loved pair is “genuinely comfortable to walk in,” according to shoppers, with many raving over the rich-looking woven design that “pulls any look together,” day or night.

Pistachio Green

Matcha lattes and pistachio ice cream are always in my hands during the summertime, so why not add a bag to match? I’ve been coveting the Penelope Small Shoulder Bag since it was released months ago, mainly for its spacious carry-all capacity and sleek silhouette that could pass as one from The Row. Plus, a 5-foot-2 fan attested that this smaller size “is perfect for daily use” and doesn’t overwhelm petite frames, while others echoed that it “feels like a luxury bag.” One person was so impressed, they said, “I’ve had designer bags over the years, and I no longer understand why.” Ahem, add to cart.

Soft Lilac

Rivers said the easiest way to weave in pastels is with a scarf, since they’re “incredibly versatile.” She explained that “you can wear one around your neck, tied onto a handbag, or even style it as a belt. It’s an easy way to make classic pieces feel fresh and current.” This gorgeous lilac option made from airy linen can easily be worn as a shawl, too, or even as a makeshift blanket on long flights to your next vacay.

Breezy Blue

If you’re looking for something blue, this handbag is one of my top contenders for busy outings in the city. Not only is it a close lookalike for a Polène bag that goes for over five times the price, but it also offers “more room than it seems” and “elevates everyday looks right into a little date night,” per reviewers. The softly structured, “small yet mighty” silhouette also features a magnetic snap closure for added security, along with an adjustable crossbody strap that others say makes it especially versatile.