Saturated Shades Are Trending for Fall, and This One Is Already Winning

As we saw in the fall 2021 collections, saturated shades are set to be one of the biggest trends for the upcoming season, period. A departure from the neutral tones that have really ruled the fashion scene for the past couple of years, it marks a tone of optimism that we could all use a dose of right now. We'll be seeing the dial turned up for just about every possible color—from electric yellow to cobalt blue to highlighter orange—in the 2021 market. That also includes red, which we saw in hypersaturated tones at brands including Balmain and Versace.

Fashion insiders have already been adopting the color into their wardrobes with cool red outfits that are inspiring me with fresh ways to wear it—whether paired with athletic shorts or a statement-making micro minidress. Ahead, seven red outfits that take a cool seasonal approach to the saturated color trend.

With Athletic Shorts

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(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

If you're looking for a comfortable outfit that still feels directional, a pair of athletic shorts is a great place to start. Add an oversize poplin shirt, tube socks, and sneakers, and you're all set.

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With a Bag

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(Image credit: @samimiro)

Louis Vuitton's Capucines BB is quickly carving out a name for itself as one of the must-own investment bags this season. Opt for a vibrant shade like the scarlet version for a piece that's both on-trend and timeless.

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With a Minidress

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(Image credit: @giorgiatordini)

Ready to wear a revenge look? I can't think of anything that feels more spot-on than a micro red minidress and a pair of strappy heels.

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With Bike Shorts

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(Image credit: @pernilleteisbaek)

Yep, another look that revolves around athletic shorts and a button-down top. This outfit formula is clearly popular among fashion insiders.

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With a Blazer

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(Image credit: @handinfire)

For a look that feels a bit more polished, you can never go wrong with a tailored blazer. The saturated red shade immediately makes a statement.

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With a Puff-Sleeve Dress

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(Image credit: @ali_tate_cutler)

While puff sleeves started out as a trend, they're a staple style at this point. Grab a dress with voluminous sleeves and strappy heels to pull off this look.

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With a Matching Set

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(Image credit: @slipintostyle)

When in doubt, always reach for a matching set. It reads as intentional and cool, regardless of the trend.

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Next, see 30 new arrivals I'm obsessing over right now.

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.