Niti Gupta
03-Nov-2025
Whether you’re attending a winter brunch, a cocktail evening, or a wedding, remember the golden rule: when pastels meet metal, magic happens.
Inputs by Niti Gupta, Luxury Style Curator, Founder & Creative Director of The AFRA World, and Curator of the NIFT Alumni Networking Group (NANG)
Fashion has always been about contrasts – soft and sharp, delicate and daring – and this season, one of the most refreshing combinations taking over global runways and red carpets is the pastel + metallic mashup. Think dreamy lilacs kissed with silver shimmer, mint co-ords edged in gold foil, or blush gowns that glimmer under the evening lights. The fusion feels modern yet timeless, balancing femininity with a bold futuristic edge.
A Softer Take on Maximalism
The world of fashion has collectively stepped away from quiet minimalism. This year, both Milan Fashion Week and the Met Gala 2025 made it clear that maximalism is back, but with refinement. At Milan, designers reimagined metallic fabrics through structured tailoring and icy pastel hues. Meanwhile, at the Met Gala, A-listers dazzled in iridescent lilac silks and high-shine embellishments that caught every flashbulb without tipping into costume territory. The key was harmony – the gleam of metal tempered by the whisper of pastels.
This season, fashion embraces that balance – think sheen, not shine. Metallics no longer scream for attention; they glow. When paired with soft pastels, they exude quiet confidence, offering a luxurious, ethereal vibe perfect for winter festivities.
Day to Night: How to Style It Right
The beauty of the pastel–metallic combination lies in its versatility. During the day, subtle metallic trims or zari-thread embroidery can add polish to pastel silhouettes imagine a peach organza kurta with rose-gold gota detailing or a lilac co-ord with silver button accents. Keep the makeup dewy and accessories matte to maintain an effortless daytime charm.
As dusk sets in, let the metallics take center stage. Transition the same pastel look into the night with a sequinned jacket, shimmer dupatta, or foil-printed skirt. A hint of gloss on the lips and metallic heels can transform the mood instantly. The play between soft hues and reflective elements creates movement and light, a perfect formula for festive evenings or winter soirees.
Winter’s Coolest Glow
While pastels have traditionally been associated with spring, their resurgence this winter feels fresh and modern. Cooler tones like icy mint, dove grey, and frost lilac mirror the season’s mood, while metallics add the perfect touch of warmth and celebration. Think of it as winter’s version of sunlight on snow: subtle, gleaming, and impossibly chic.
Layering also becomes easier with this trend. Metallic knit scarves, shimmer-lined coats, or even pastel leather jackets with gold hardware add a soft-glam edge to cold-weather dressing. The goal is to look radiant, not reflective — a fine balance that makes the look feel luxe and wearable.
The Pastel–Metallic State of Mind
Ultimately, the pastel + metallic mashup is more than a trend – it’s a mood. It celebrates softness without fragility and glamour without excess. It’s for those who love romance in their wardrobe but aren’t afraid to sparkle a little. As fashion circles turn toward elevated maximalism, this pairing stands out as a symbol of confident subtlety — a nod to nostalgia and a step into the future.
