Be it for Sabrina Carpenter or desi Gen Z stars, pastels are the new black

If you thought the pastel craze fizzled out with the credits of the Barbie movie, think again. In 2025, Gen Z is embracing light, dreamy colors like never before. From powder blue to butter yellow, soft shades are making bold fashion statements across the globe and it's more than just a seasonal trend. These hues have become the go-to aesthetic for young fashionistas seeking a balance between modern cool and nostalgic charm.

The rise of pastel fashion: From runways to reels

Thanks to TikTok and Instagram, fashion trends travel faster than ever, and pastels have taken center stage. Gen Z influencers, fashion vloggers, and celebrities alike are showcasing their love for lighter tones. The pastel palette includes shades like baby pink, lavender, mint green, pistachio, peach, and sky blue—each one reflecting a sense of softness, serenity, and playful rebellion against louder trends of the past.

Ballet-core and cottage-core: Subcultures shaping the trend

Two key fashion movements—ballet-core and cottage-core—have played a massive role in pastel fashion’s rise. Ballet-core romanticizes the elegance of ballet attire: think blush-toned wrap sweaters, satin flats, and tulle skirts. Cottage-core, on the other hand, leans into rustic femininity with pastel florals, lace, and vintage-inspired dresses. Both aesthetics emphasize softness, comfort, and a dreamy lifestyle that appeals to Gen Z’s craving for calm amid chaos.

Bollywood’s pastel moment: Suhana Khan and Janhvi Kapoor lead the way

In India, pastel fashion has found strong ambassadors in Bollywood’s next-gen stars. Suhana Khan and Janhvi Kapoor are frequently spotted donning pastel-toned sarees, lehengas, and fusion wear. Whether it’s a breezy pistachio anarkali for a brunch event or a blush pink lehenga for a wedding celebration, these looks combine traditional silhouettes with contemporary color palettes, making pastels the go-to choice for ethnic glam.

Hollywood’s pastel icons: Gen Z stars go soft

It’s not just Bollywood—young stars in the West are also embracing the pastel takeover. Millie Bobby Brown, Sabrina Carpenter, and TikTok icons like Addison Rae regularly step out in soft-colored ensembles ranging from pastel power suits to candy-colored co-ords. Even beauty trends are following suit, with pastel eyeshadows, baby pink blushes, and mint manicures dominating social media tutorials.

Why Gen Z loves pastels: It’s more than just aesthetic

Beyond aesthetics, pastel colors represent a mood. In an age of uncertainty, these soft shades provide a sense of comfort and escapism. They're also more inclusive and gender-fluid, appealing to Gen Z’s progressive mindset. Unlike the bold colors of the 2010s, pastels offer versatility—perfect for minimalists, maximalists, and everyone in between.

Pastels are the new black

Whether it's a pastel co-ord for a day out or a powder blue kurta for a family function, Gen Z is making it clear: pastels are here to stay. These candy hues may be light, but they’re making a loud statement in the fashion world—and it’s sweet, soft, and seriously stylish.