Even as a devoted neutral-colours girl, it’s hard not to be drawn to the bright-colour takeover that's been happening this spring/summer. Between the maximalist trend fashion is currently loving and stars like Zara Larsson and Tyla leaning into bold, vibrant looks, it feels like everyone’s trading muted tones for shades that turn heads. We’ve seen butter yellow, lawn green, and chilli red have their moments, and now aqua blue has become the latest favourite – just in time for late summer. And honestly, it couldn’t be more fitting for the season.
I've started spotting this colour everywhere over recent weeks, and my immediate reaction was pure nostalgia. As a ‘90s baby, it felt like I'd been transported straight back to the early aughts. The punchy turquoise has that unmistakable Y2K energy (not that it's surprising, given our collective obsession with the era), but in 2026, it feels refreshed with a gorgeous aquamarine quality that gives it an ocean-inspired feel. Overall, it’s richer, more saturated, and styled in a way that feels elevated rather than overtly retro.
Notably, it's not just on throwback-inspired pieces, but also decorating contemporary silhouettes in the form of summer dresses, statement tops, and accessories. The more I see it, the more I’m convinced I need to bring the mermaid-esque hue into my wardrobe. Long story short: I’ve been shopping for the perfect aqua blue piece when I came across Hush's Pure Cotton Textured Midi Beach Dress available in the M&S sale.
Hush Pure Cotton Textured Midi Beach Dress
Personally, I’ll be packing this for my upcoming Eurosummer trip to Italy. From its long, floaty silhouette and stunning dipped back detail to the textured cotton seersucker fabrication, it has warm-weather, beachy-cool energy written all over it. Wear it with sandals for something more laid-back or pair it with quirky wedges to take things up a notch. Either way, expect the compliments to roll in – people will be asking where you got this dress left and right. Watch!
Not gonna lie, I’ve also had my eye on these aqua blue dresses too...
Whistles Pure Cotton V-Neck Maxi Beach Dress
ASOS DESIGN Slinky Maxi Dress with Drape Knot Back Detail
Megan Uy is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, where she searches for the best products in all things fashion, home, beauty, sex, gifts, and more, so you don’t have to. When she’s not writing for the site, she’s whipping up some cool and trendy content for the fashion section of the print magazine. She’s been with the brand since 2019 (when she was an itty-bitty editorial fellow), and she's also written for Delish, House Beautiful, and People. Follow her on Instagram to get some BTS of the editor life and chaotic NYC content. Also, feel free to hit her up if you ever wanna discuss the madness that is TikTok.
