How to Style Butter Yellow—The Shade We’re Melting for This Spring

In looking to the runways for spring inspiration, not every trend is easy to steal. Chanel’s exuberant fringe-y headpieces may be hard to wear to the office, for example. But, color is quick to incorporate. Fashion designers often offer an It color, or two, each season. For spring, they’re serving a slab of butter yellow once again.

Like other straight-from-the-plate color trends (we’ve also seen the rise of avocado green and chocolate brown recently), butter yellow is a deliciously chic proposition that likely was not inspired by the world of food. The easy-to-wear color is a soft twist on your typical neutral, like khaki or cream, adding interest to a look while avoiding the blunt brightness of strong primary colors. For spring we saw it on runways at Loewe, Chloé, Louis Vuitton, and the aforementioned Chanel. Butter yellow is the perfect shade for spring—smoothly bridging the gap between elegant minimalism and sunny exuberance. It’s a color that brings a pop of energy, while still feeling subtle and luxe.

And, butter yellow is easy to mix with the staples you already own. It pairs especially well with neutrals like ivory, tan, and black. For all of our favorite ways to wear it, check out our styling guide below.

Room Temperature, Only!

Balance a butter yellow shorts and shirt set by adding a light trench, ivory socks, and brown loafers.

Python-Infused

A butter yellow maxi dress from Toteme pairs well with minimalist extras for evening—try a brown sandal from Gucci and a python clutch.

Cacio e Pepe

Butter yellow and black is a deliciously satisfying combination. We love soft leather jacket and button up paired with a black pencil skirt.

I Can’t Believe It’s Not…

Another all-butter ensemble, this time in the form of an easy pants and a knit. The tonal ensemble pairs unexpectedly well with burgundy ballet flats.

Pink Lemonade

Try Ossou’s butter yellow denim with a baby pink tee. Heavier accessories in black anchor the look.

Lemon Meringue

A simple butter yellow tee can be enough to perk up neutral separates like white denim, tan slides, and a brown work jacket.

A Splash of Vanilla

Pair a twisted butter yellow midi with a coordinating tee and contrasting black accessories.