The New Pink

I’m not a big fan of hard and fast rules when it comes to fashion. Just because one magazine dictates that the latest designer bag is a ‘must-have’ or a new sleeve shape is essential, doesn’t mean their advice is always worth following. Sometimes the best looks come complete with an irreverent attitude and a carelessness towards whatever’s on trend at the moment. So when fashion editors declare that a formerly-forgotten shade has become the colour of the season, I’d usually hold back from investing too heavily in it. If you’re a monochrome sort of girl, don’t abandon that on a whim – just look at the Jay Ahr Resort 2014 lookbook for inspiration.

But this season fashion editors have seized upon pink, and I can’t help but get excited about it.

Alongside the fluffy pastels shown by Roksanda Illincic and Simone Rocha, there’s a new type of pink that we haven’t seen in a really long time. Feminine but tough, and made all the more interesting with contemporary embellishments, you can forget any thought of Pretty in Pink or sweet ballerina slippers. Studs, outsized crystals and clunky chains make for souped-up versions of blush or rose, perfect for channelling your inner rebel.

EABurns’ necklace was inspired by crystal formations, but named the Studded Stegosaurus because of its uncanny resemblance to a dinosaur tail. Its punky embellishments entirely undo any girlish pretensions – if you want a less in-your-face approach, try the Triangle Pendant instead.

It’s almost the end of summer, so enjoy it while it lasts with these rounded sunglasses from Topshop. The tonal frames are slightly transparent, letting the light glow through them, and will work with everything – especially denim.

I’ve written about my love of Shourouk jewellery before, and this necklace is a rosy reminder of how covetable these pieces are. Shaped like a cluster of brooches around the neckline, it has sparkle without being in the least bit twee.

I’d wear these striking Jennifer Loiselle earrings with a crisp collared shirt or grey marl tee to breathe new life into those wardrobe staples. They’re sci-fi meets art deco, finished with oversized Swarovski crystals and grosgrain ribbon, all in an antique shade of pink.

ASOS’ enamel earrings take a bright Barbie hue and somehow stop it from looking saccharine sweet. The Aztec-inspired triangles have a summery feel, so you can work this pop of colour into casual looks now.

Whistles have got it right with this mini tablet case. The metallic textures gives a luxe, fashion-forward feel to the rose gold colour, while the black contrast panel keeps it looking slick.

This J Crew necklace tempers ballet slipper pink and bright coral with a serious amount of bling. It’s a hefty investment, even though it’s in the sale now, but this is a necklace that could transform any outfit. I’d layer it over a structured tee with a simple neckline to keep all eyes on its fan-shaped design.