From butter yellow dresses to pink jeans – sorbet hues are in

Image of sorbet colours — (Image credit: M&S, John Lewis, Next)

If you're looking to add some joy to your spring outfit rotation, then look no further than sweet sorbet tones. Light pastels have made a strong return this season, with brands moving away from stark neutrals and towards what can best be described as "sorbet" hues.

Butter yellow, dusty pink, sky blue and lavender are the shades brightening up both high street and designer brands' collections. And although the spring/summer fashion colour trends 2026 predicted a shift towards uplifting hues, it didn't quite factor in the turn towards lighter variations of these shades.

Perfect for freshening up your existing spring outfit ideas, these colours are surprisingly versatile and add just the right amount of boldness to your look. A butter yellow dress can work beautifully as one of the best wedding guest dresses, whilst a pair of sky blue flats can instantly lift everyday denim. Sorbet tones offer personality, and they're surprisingly versatile too, so I've rounded up my favourite pieces on the high street in these hues.

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Buttermilk Yellow Cap Sleeve Shirred Body Jersey Midi Dress

This butter yellow dress offers an easy way to make a statement with minimal styling. Perfect for sunny getaways or weekend outings, pair this piece with leather sandals and statement jewellery.

M&S

Collarless Shirred Button Through Top

Selling fast, this shirred top is worth adding to your basket before it goes. The soft buttery colour makes it perfect for complementing denim blues.

Mint Velvet

Matilda Butter Yellow Leather Shoulder Bag

Freshen up your handbag collection with this leather shoulder bag. Perfect pairing with both daywear and evening attire, this is a versatile investment.

M&S

Mid Rise Barrel Jeans

Pink jeans have recently become a key denim trend 2026, and who can deny their playful appeal? Team this barrel-leg pair with a crisp white shirt and brown leather loafers for a smart finish.

John Lewis

Real Leather Chore Jacket

Investing in a good quality spring jacket is a must, and this beautiful pink style is made from supple leather for a premium feel and look. Plus, it comes in three colourways, including a buttery yellow.

With Nothing Underneath

The Boyfriend: Fine Poplin, Light Pink Stripe

If you favour pinks, you'll love this relaxed poplin shirt. It features a subtle white stripe and pale pink shade that makes it perfect for styling with denim.

Nobody's Child

Lyocell Rich Striped Midi Skater Dress

Perfect for garden parties, summer get-togethers or smart work days, this sky blue dress will carry you through the season in style. Pair with a lightweight cardigan and espadrilles on sunny days.

Mango

Fine-Knit Straight-Fit Cardigan

This lightweight cardigan is the sweetest layering piece, perfect for placing over simple t-shirts, floaty dresses or for wearing solo, plus the light blue shade feels perfectly seasonal.

Zara

Leather Ballet Flats

Made from real leather, these Mary-Jane style flats are an affordable find for just under £40. Team them with straight-leg denim, slip skirts or floaty spring dresses.

John Lewis

Women's Organic Cropped T-Shirt

Lavender hues are another sorbet colour we're coveting, and this simple t-shirt offers an effortless way to channel the trend. Take notes on how it's styled on the model and tuck it into fresh white jeans.

Mint Velvet

Lilac Linen Bias Midi Skirt

This beautiful linen midi-skirt is a one-of-a-kind piece that will work to elevate your holiday attire. Wear with the matching shirred top and wedge heels to create a flawlessly styled look.

Anthropologie

Melie Bianco Larissa Woven Faux-Leather Shoulder Bag

Perfect for accessorising dresses or smart tailoring, this shoulder bag will add a pop of colour to your smart occasionwear. It comes in several shades, including sky blue and light yellow.

What's great about these shades is that they can replace your neutral staples effortlessly, for example, swap your go-to white t-shirt with a pale lavender version or try a butter yellow knit instead of your usual cream.

Equally, don't underestimate the impact of accessories in sorbet tones. Some sky blue flats or a dusty pink bag can truly transform the simplest of looks, which is why it's well worth investing in these shades for spring.

Molly is a fashion writer for woman&home, whose journalistic career began with her enthusiasm for fashion. Having always been an avid writer, she has contributed to publications covering a variety of topics.

After graduating from her master's in Fashion History and Cultures, she transitioned to teaching at London College of Fashion, where she taught in fashion studies. Now, passionate about writing on the significance of fashion, she is dedicated to inspiring others through the power of dress.

Molly loves staying in the know with the latest fashion trends, and following celebrities for inspiration. Outside of work, she enjoys browsing vintage markets, reading a good novel, or trying new restaurants around London.

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