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It’s no secret that yellow is a divisive color. The hue’s certifiable instant mood-boosting power can be attributed to reminding us of sunshine, flowers, smiley faces, and positivity. Yet, many are at odds about the color, with deeper and brighter shades of yellow feeling too bold for some, while others feel lighter hues of the color are practically undetectable. Whichever camp your loyalties lie, yellow is an absolute no-brainer option when it comes to springtime transitional dressing due to its pastel and floral affiliations. And this year, we’re adding a healthy dose of butter yellow to our wardrobes.
Runways from Paris to New York to Copenhagen can attest that a dash of butter makes everything better, with collections at Sandy Liang, JW Anderson, Burberry, and Bevza wowing the editorial crowd—and now you. For neutral lovers—and those who fondly remember Harling Ross Anton’s viral “stick of butter” dressing circa 2018—butter is a fresh swap for beige and cream, with the shade being akin to your favorite white tee. For those who say bring on the bold, butter plays a complementary role in outfit-making, allowing starring colors to shine. Not convinced? Ahead, find eight outfit ideas that incorporate spring's hottest color trend: butter yellow.
For Your 9-to-5
Despite the vibes the weather may be giving off, summer is still a ways away, meaning most of us will be spending spring fully sat at our desks. But not to worry—it’s super simple to bring the warmth indoors with your workwear. Butter-tinted separates seamlessly slot into your existing work wardrobe without requiring much thought.
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Abercombie & Fitch
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J.Crew
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Anthropologie
For the Gym
While we don't recommend combining IRL butter with your workout, we do think you should consider wearing the color to your next sweat sesh. After all, what could be more motivating than catching a glimpse of the cheery color mid–hot girl walk or during your Pilates sesh? To break up the color (and keep the spring vibes going), pair with a vibrant pair of sneakers.
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Hoka
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Free People
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Emi Jay
For Brunch With Friends
Spring is the time to bust out those minidresses, but sometimes, it’s still a little too cold. In that case, pull out a midi—like this linen puff-sleeve dress from Reformation—in butter. Pair with raffia heels (aka one of 2024’s biggest shoe trends) and you’re ready for weekend brunch.
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Dolce Vita
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Reformation
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Polène
For Running Errands
Perhaps the easiest way to incorporate the color is by swapping out your favorite neutral pieces (like a classic white T-shirt) for the same style in a buttery hue. Combine the color with two other trends forecasted to be huge this spring—boxer shorts and Adidas Sambas—for a playful, comfy look that’s ready for days in the park and pursuing local farmers markets.
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Gap
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sønderhaus
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Aritzia
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Adidas
For Date Night
The coquette aesthetic is going nowhere—and butter yellow happens to fall right within its cutesy, pastel color palette. Lean into your femme side for date night with this romantic ruffled minidress featuring a trailing rosette. For colder evenings (and to add an edgy touch), layer an oversize moto jacket on top à la Hailey Bieber.
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Edikted
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RE/DONE
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Schutz
For Spring Weddings
We’ve got you covered on what to wear to that spring wedding coming up. Channel Kate Hudson in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days by choosing a butter yellow gown. This maxi dress from Abercrombie & Fitch has a gorgeous open cowl back and is vibrant enough not to translate in photos as cream or white.
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Abercrombie & Fitch
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Larroude
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Jacquemus
For Vacation
While it’s not quite time to break out the entire swim collection, you may need a few new outfit options for spring break. Whether you’re headed to Turks and Caicos or the Florida beaches, you’re sure to slay in this butter-yellow, jersey one-piece. Pair with an oversize button-up and beachy Birkenstocks to keep the look cool, comfy, and casual.
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Lovers & Friends
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Athleta
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Birkenstock
For Accessories
Plays well with others" is certainly a trait we look for when adding a trend to our rotation. From olive, blue, and orange to baby pink, purple, and sage, pale yellows are easily paired with other colors in addition to neutrals. We're partial to this dreamy lavender blouse and of-the-moment barrel-leg denim, accented with butter flats and a cheeky stick of butter necklace.
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& Other Stories
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Citizens of Humanity
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Jeffrey Campbell
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Fashion Brand Company