Neutral colours are great, but Helen Mirren proves that brights are the ideal way to elevate an autumn wardrobe
She turned to an unexpected colour combination that really makes a splash
What’s your favourite autumn colour pairing? Perhaps it's a sleek monochrome, or seasonal hues of burnt orange and mustard. For Helen Mirren, it’s something a little brighter, and I'm taking notes.
Spotted out in New York City last week wearing fuchsia and cobalt blue, the unlikely pairing proves bright tones instantly elevate an autumn wardrobe. Building her outfit around Givenchy’s floral print circular skirt, the pattern used two colours to create a striking look, pulling the blue tone out by styling it with a cobalt Chuck sweater by Josephine & Co.
A pair of hot pink suede ballet flats peeked out from the hem of her maxi skirt to highlight the hot pink hues in her skirt, before toning the whole look down with a classic beige trench coat; it was a masterful use of colour and styling, creating an elegantly bold look.
There is only one size left in this sensational skirt that can be easily styled for a smart-casual outfit, just like Helen Mirren, or dressed up for a black-tie event with the correct accompanying accessories. The bold clash of colours is sure to brighten any winter day.
Delivering a similar aesthetic, this Phase Eight design also references hot pink florals, giving a nod to the autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026. At a fraction of the price, the A-line silhouette nips in the waist while gliding elegantly past the hips and thighs.
One of the best wool jumpers, this 100% merino design is cosy and breathable, while the bold blue hue gives a nod to the autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026.
To get the full look with this 100% cashmere jumper, you can buy the matching Cobalt Blue N.Premium Cashmere Wool Triangle Scarf to wear alongside it.
Helen could have easily finished her look with a neutral shoe, but her choice of pink flats really elevated the overall aesthetic. Adding bright shoes is a great way of refreshing your look.
The best trench coats are a wardrobe staple, and the traditionally neutral outerwear is pairable with almost any silhouette. This classic M&S one is packed with detailing.
While hot pink and cobalt blue might not be the first colour pairing you think of for autumn outfit ideas, there are plenty of reasons to try it out. The first is that Helen looked utterly chic in this statement look.
The second is that while pink and blue aren't traditionally associated with cooler weather, these colourways actually featured heavily on the runways at the likes of Chanel, Chloé and Lanvin, making them a great alternative autumn hues.
And thirdly, if you're looking to dose up on dopamine dressing, it's hard to find a better pairing this season. The highly saturated hues contrast while complementing one another, and with more dreary weather en route, dressing yourself sunny and happy is a smart choice.
But don't forget, while Helen's look is maximalist, she knows when to pause and how to tone it down, and her neutral overcoat is absolutely instrumental in adding elegance to the final look, quietly picking out the creamy hue in the skirt and gently pulling everything together.
