Soft Hues: How to Brighten Up Your Wardrobe With Pastels

With the arrival of warmer weather comes the return of the dreamiest of color palettes. You guessed it: Pastels! From soft hues of pleasant pink, melodic mint, and peaceful peach to beautiful shades of blissful blue and lovely lavender–your wardrobe could certainly benefit from the addition of playful pops of color. Let’s explore how to go about adding pastels to your rotation in a way that brings you joy and makes you feel most like YOU! Here are some ideas...

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Blazers

Blazers are a chic and easy way to elevate any outfit for any occasion. Here at Short Story, not only do we offer blazers in a stunning array of colors but also the best petite fit. From a casual jean and tee combo to a polished professional sheath dress, this layering piece will soon become your new go-to. If you feel so inclined to make a fun statement and let your personality shine, one of the best ways to do so is to begin with a neutral base outfit. Then, simply slip into a blazer in your favorite springtime pastel.

My personal favorite, which has been a staple in my closet throughout the years, is a gorgeous soft sage one. True to my nature, it embodies design elements of the vintage aesthetic. Add some complementary accessories to your look to enhance its cohesion!

Pants & Trousers

Who doesn’t love a good trouser moment, right?! They are probably my favorite ways to incorporate color into a wardrobe. Years ago, I thrifted a pair of pastel blue trousers; they are the first piece of clothing I reach for once the warm weather arrives! Because pastels maintain the integrity of their base colors while simply softening them with the addition of white, these hues often pair best with lighter shades.

Too much contrast, for instance, can feel visually harsh and overwhelming. If you are headed into the office, one styling idea is to pair your favorite pastel pant with a white blouse! If you are headed out for an errand-running adventure (for me, that’s always and undoubtedly Target), try a more casual white or light neutral-colored tee!

Stylist Tip: Inseam is so important when it comes to pants so look for petite-specific styles or regular ankle-length options when shopping for the ideal length.

Tops & Blouses

Tops and blouses are praised for their versatility! Like shoes, they can take an outfit from day to night. A fun way to add pastels into your rotation is by pairing a top with trousers, jeans, or skirts. Want to incorporate more color into the mix, but are afraid of making too much of a statement?! Fear not! This is why blouses are a must–you can add layers (jackets, cardigans, and blazers) if you desire to minimize the amount of color peeking through.

This principle also holds true for sweater vests. Still a fun pop of pastel, just at your level of comfort! For those who like to be a bit more adventurous in their style, try some monochromatic color blocking. Interested in trying something a bit different than a blouse? Try a petite bodysuit, specifically crafted for petites by requesting one in your box today!

Dresses

Dresses, along with jumpsuits, are perhaps the most effortlessly stylish of the fashion categories! They come in a variety of silhouettes to flatter diverse body types! As a petite woman, I know how challenging finding the perfect fit for these can be. But I have discovered that when you stumble upon the right one, it is naturally accompanied by a boost of confidence (especially if it has pockets, right?)!

For me, the delicacy of my favorite dresses blended with the softness of their pastel palettes makes for a magic combination. Whatever pastel color has you feeling your best, try it out in your favorite dress silhouette!

Playful Prints

Spring and Summertime: A reminder of the beauty of blooming, of the importance of growth, and of the power of always keeping hope alive within us! Floral prints characterize this season! Don’t be afraid to play with these prints and others that make you smile! Pastel patterns can especially brighten your wardrobe, and when implemented creatively, can allow you to express yourself! Find your favorite print and maybe try it out in a pastel twist!

Because larger prints can easily overwhelm a petite frame, opt for smaller, more delicate patterns for the most flattering, confidence-enhancing outfit. If you love jumpsuits, look for one in a subtle print like a small floral print which is a great place to start.

Sets

One of the most popular trends throughout the past several seasons has been the set! From lounge sets to co-ords–they come in all styles and silhouettes. If you want a fashion-forward, yet equally comfortable look for those casual days in, try grabbing a pastel short/cropped tee set!

These tend to work well for us shorties because of our proportions. If you prefer the more coverage that is offered by pants, joggers can be just as petite-friendly. Sets are some of the easiest ways to feel cozy and put together. Comfort meets style–what could truly be better?

The addition of pastels into your warm weather rotation is the perfect way to brighten not only your wardrobe but even your spirits too! When worn in ways that make you feel most like yourself, there’s no doubt about your ability to tackle anything the day brings! Sign up to work with one of our stylists today!

What’s your favorite way to wear your pastels for the season? Show us by tagging us on Instagram @shortstorybox or using the hashtag #shortstorybox

*Cover photo: Emma's Edition