4 ways to look more expensive using spring color trends

This Spring, we’re leaning into color—and specifically the official Pantone picks from NYFW for Spring/Summer 2026.

Most of my styling clients get stuck when it comes to color. Standing in your closet, staring at the racks, suddenly feels like a high-stakes decision. What the heck goes together? What actually looks good on me? And ultimately, you defer to mixing neutrals to be ‘safe’.

But here’s the thing—color is one of the fastest ways to shift how you feel in what you’re wearing. It can energize you, soften you, make you feel more like yourself. And it does all of that without needing a complicated outfit.

If you want to feel more confident wearing color, there are really two things that change everything: understanding how to use it, and knowing which colors actually work for you.

Color techniques give you the how—how to mix, match, and build outfits that feel intentional. A color analysis gives you the what—which shades bring you to life. (And yes, hosting a color analysis party this spring is a very good idea… just saying.)

Use the color wheel to mix and match colors when getting dressed-works every time

Here’s how to start thinking about color in a way that actually feels simple:

Monochromatic
One color, head to toe. Most women do this with black, but it works with any shade. It’s effortless, streamlined, and gives that same elongated, pulled-together feel.

Tonal
Different shades of the same color. Think soft pink with a brighter pink, or light blue with navy. It adds interest without feeling overwhelming.

Analogous color blocking
Colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel. Yellow and orange, blue and green—these combinations feel natural and easy on the eye.

Complementary color blocking
Colors opposite each other on the color wheel. This is your bold moment—high contrast, high impact, and a little more playful.

Once you understand these, getting dressed becomes so much clearer. And even the simplest outfit suddenly makes a statement.

If you’re ready to actually shop with this in mind, I put together your spring color shopping guide below.

As Always,

The JH Way