How to Wear Pastels the Grown-Up Way

Spotted on the spring/summer catwalks, powder pink has a fresh feel that's perfect for the warmer weather. Feminine colours such as pink work beautifully for this season's co-ords: take this sculptural waistcoat, shorts and trousers as a case in point.

The beauty of a co-ord is that each piece can be worn together or with other items in your wardrobe. Try wearing the top with white linen trousers to add contrast or mix the shorts and trousers with a crisp T-shirt for a more casual look.

This soft pastel shade offers a gentle alternative to bolder yellows, while still bringing an upbeat, sunny vibe that feels right for the season.

The easiest way to wear butter yellow is head to toe in a simple dress. We love this flattering butter yellow dress that's elevated by the flattering tie detail. Team with flat tan sandals and a straw tote bag for daytime sightseeing. Alternatively, dress up for a summer wedding with a dainty necklace, an armful of bangles and kitten heels.

Pep up your summer wardrobe with an airy midi skirt in this season's most covetable shade: pistachio green. Team this flowing, floor-sweeping skirt with the coordinating top or contrast it with a crisp white shirt. Keep the look playful with cat-eye sunglasses and ballet pumps, to create the perfect warm-weather edit.

If powder pink is a little too saccharine for you, baby blue is the pastel for you. Paired with neutrals or bold shades, it's a contemporary alternative to white or cream.

This blue mini dress offers a romantic take on the shade, with a gathered scoop neck and drop hem adding a feminine flourish. Team with gold hoops and slip-on mules for everyday errands, or chunky sandals for holiday-ready dressing.