AW26/27 makes a confident colour statement with Raspberry Rush – a palette that celebrates bold optimism and retro flair. This story takes its cues from vintage sportswear, playground energy, and a sense of unapologetic fun, offering kidswear a fresh approach to winter dressing. It’s not about blending in – it’s about using colour and texture to make a joyful impact.
The Colour Story
At the heart of Raspberry Rush is a vibrant mix of warm pinks and reds, elevated with tonal depth and contrast. Raspberry, rose, and blush shades give a softer yet saturated base, while deep crimson injects vibrancy and energy. Navy steps in as the balancing force, grounding the brighter tones and adding a classic, wearable edge. Cocoa brown brings in a touch of retro warmth, and a crisp mint green offers an unexpected pop that keeps the palette feeling young and fresh. Together, these shades create a balanced harmony that’s versatile enough for unisex collections while still delivering that instant visual punch.
Texture & Fabric Direction
Fabrics lean into tactility, with a strong focus on nostalgic, comfort-driven materials. Chunky knits with bold colour-block pockets, brushed fleece hoodies with contrast ribbing, and corduroy in berry tones all feature heavily. There’s a move towards fabrics that feel good to wear – soft against the skin, easy to layer, and resilient enough for active play. Retro sneaker styling in complementary shades brings cohesion from head to toe. This tactile approach adds a premium feel to casualwear staples, making them giftable as well as practical.
Silhouette & Styling
Shapes stay relaxed and roomy, inspired by late 70s and early 80s silhouettes. Think oversized hoodies layered over wide-leg joggers, colour-block sweatshirts with vintage sports logos, and matching co-ords that blur the line between loungewear and streetwear. Playful all-over prints – such as popsicle motifs or abstract geometrics – sit alongside solid blocks of colour for mix-and-match versatility. Details like contrast cuffs, scalloped edges, and patch pockets add charm without compromising comfort.
Why It Works for AW26/27
Winter often leans towards muted, subdued palettes, but Raspberry Rush flips the script. It offers warmth without heaviness, energy without chaos. These are colours that brighten darker days and fabrics that wrap kids in comfort while keeping a sense of style. The nostalgic undertone ensures appeal for parents who remember similar trends from their own childhoods, while the modern twist keeps it feeling current.
Commercial Potential
Raspberry Rush works across multiple categories – from babywear through to older kids – and translates easily into accessories, outerwear linings, and sleepwear. The unisex appeal of the navy, cocoa, and green accents broadens its reach, while the raspberry-crimson combination provides a signature pop that can become a brand identifier. For retailers, this is a palette that photographs beautifully for e-commerce, stands out on the rail, and naturally lends itself to coordinated storytelling in-store.
The Takeaway
This is a trend that says colour is for everyone, all year round. With its confident colour story, tactile fabrics, and easy, retro-inspired shapes, Raspberry Rush injects energy into AW26/27 collections while remaining wearable and versatile. It’s
Image Credits: @_bobochoses_, @vejakids, @jellymallow_official