Butter yellow has been building buzz since last year, but the colour truly bloomed this spring and summer as celebs and fashionistas embraced it for its fresh, luminous appeal. While bold tones like lemoncello and canary yellow continue to turn heads, butter yellow reigns supreme this season thanks to its unique balance: soft yet bright, cheerful but never overpowering.
It’s a colour that stands out without shouting – radiant enough to catch the eye, yet mellow enough to stay effortlessly wearable. That’s exactly why it’s become a favourite across runways, street style roundups, and social feeds this season.
So, what exactly is butter yellow? Think of it as the soft, creamy pastel sibling of the yellow family. Less electric than lemon and less golden than marigold, it sits somewhere between ivory and sunshine – warm, muted, and unmistakably chic.
It flatters all skin tones, pairs beautifully with both neutrals and bolder accents, and brings a gentle glow to any look. Whether you’re colour-shy or a full-blown fashion risk taker, here are a few ways you can incorporate this butter yellow into your wardrobe this season.
Start with staples
For those new to the colour, the easiest way to ease into butter yellow is through everyday wardrobe basics. A soft butter yellow tank top, cardigan, or oversized button-down offers an instant summer refresh. Pair these with your favourite white jeans, denim cutoffs, or a linen midi skirt for a light, breezy aesthetic.
A butter yellow slip dress is another foolproof choice. The combination of a slinky silhouette and a creamy yellow tone feels both minimalist and romantic, perfect for everything from brunch to sunset dinners. Layer with a white linen blazer or a cropped cardigan if you want to add dimension.
Play with textures
Butter yellow shines particularly well in soft, textured fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, and even knitwear. A ribbed butter yellow tank, for instance, adds subtle depth and interest while staying on the neutral side. Linen in this hue looks especially fresh and summery, offering a breathable, natural feel that enhances the softness of the tone.
Don’t be afraid to wear butter yellow in unexpected ways either, like in tailored pants, utility-inspired dresses, or even lightweight summer knit sets. These pieces make the shade feel modern and elevated, not overly sweet.
Pair with neutrals or layer similar shades
One of butter yellow’s greatest strengths is its ability to play well with other colours. Pair it with warm neutrals like beige, camel, and oat for a monochromatic, luxe palette. Crisp white enhances its freshness, while soft gray or sage green can tone down its warmth for a more grounded look.
Want a bolder twist? Try a tonal look with other yellows. Pair butter yellow with deeper mustard or lighter cream shades for a layered, fashion-forward ensemble. You can also opt to contrast it with lavender, sky blue, or blush pink for a soft colour-blocked moment that feels whimsical and current.
Add interest with accessories
If head-to-toe colour feels daunting, accessories are your best friend. A butter yellow bag, strappy sandals, or even a pair of tinted sunglasses can add just the right touch of trend without overwhelming your outfit. Bucket hats, hair clips, and statement earrings in this hue also offer low-commitment ways to test the waters.
Bonus tip: butter yellow nails are everywhere this summer. If you want to experiment with the trend subtly, a glossy manicure in this pastel shade is a perfect entry point.
Let it shine in evening wear
While pastels are usually daytime favourites, butter yellow works beautifully after dark too, especially in elevated fabrics like satin or silk. A ruched butter yellow midi dress with strappy heels and gold jewellery feels effortlessly polished for date night or rooftop cocktails.
Butter yellow even lends itself well to occasion wear. For summer weddings or garden parties, a soft yellow ruffle gown or pleated chiffon number is feminine and fashion-forward without stealing the spotlight.
Stay updated on what’s trending in fashion here.