Don't save pastels for spring - Lorraine Kelly’s lilac look proves that sugary shades can work all year round
Her soft purple-hued dress is perfect for brightening up an autumnal wardrobe


While pretty pastel hues are usually reserved for spring and summer, there is absolutely no reason to wave goodbye to sugary shades just because the seasons are changing. In fact, pastels like butter yellow and sky blue are among the key autumn/winter fashion colour trends 2025. Soft pink, purple and yellow tones can absolutely work for the colder months, and if you don’t believe me, take a look at Lorraine Kelly’s latest red carpet look.
The 65-year-old presenter wowed in lilac when she attended the ITV 70th Anniversary Celebration event in London earlier this month, alongside the likes of Cat Deeley and Lorraine Kelly. She opted for a chic midi dress by one of the best women's workwear brands, The Fold, which she styled beautifully with a pair of nude court shoes and a small tan leather bag by a brand called Neo. The look was bright, fun and perfect for a fancy event, but the pale purple colour will also be a winner for daytime plans too – it's timeless and very easy to weave into pretty much any autumn capsule wardrobe.
Whether you are looking for a fancy frock for a special occasion or some new separates to pep up your weekend outfits, I have rounded up some chic lilac buys below.
Shop Lorraine's look
The well-placed pleats and fitted middle on this modern dress will flatter in all the right places to create an hourglass silhouette. It's actually one of the styles we recommend as the best mother of the bride dresses, and can attest to the fact that it's incredibly flattering in person. It's also available in emerald green.
For a more relaxed take on the purple dress, opt for this crafty number. It'll look great layered under a soft grey cardigan and finished with a pair of leather or suede knee-high boots.
Shop more lilac buys
A classic jumper like this will be easy wear for a wintry weekend. Buddy it up with blue barrel leg jeans and a pair of super comfortable trainers.
Pastel shades don't have to be matched with similar pale tones - lilac is much more versatile than you might expect, and the candy colour can have a very modern and fresh feel when teamed with unexpected shades.
Try wearing your pretty purple piece with rich caramel hues, charcoal grey or even burgundy, and you'll have a contemporary new look for autumn and beyond.
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Matilda Stanley is a freelance style editor covering all things fashion, beauty and interiors. She writes and styles for both print and online and covers everything from the latest catwalk trends to bargain skincare buys. With over fifteen years of experience in the industry, Matilda has worked on TV shows including 'Gok's Fashion Fix', and written and styled for publications including Closer, Heat, Bella, Look, Woman, Good Housekeeping, Now, and The Daily Mail.
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