It's not quite yellow. It's not quite green. And it's everywhere.
Chartreuse is the colour of the season, and it doesn't ask for permission. Named after the French liqueur, it's sharp, electric and a little bit bold. It's also surprisingly easy to wear. That's what makes it interesting.
HOW IT STARTS
Every bold colour follows the same path. It begins small: a bag, a pair of heels, a dupatta. Then, once people get used to it, it takes over the whole outfit.
Chartreuse is right at that point. Think Manolo Blahnik slingbacks with leaf detailing, or a satin bag swinging against an all-black look. One piece, and the outfit is suddenly different.
THE LABEL THAT GOT THERE FIRST
While the rest of fashion is only now catching on, Alaïa has been wearing chartreuse for years. Its archive includes a shimmering chartreuse dress with a draped neckline. On its latest runway, the colour came back in a fringed asymmetric skirt and a fluid pleated one, both paired with dark tops. Alaïa's satin shoulder bag in the same shade has quickly become one of the most recognisable accessories of the season.
THE EASIEST ENTRY POINT: A BAG
If you're not ready for head-to-toe chartreuse, start with a bag. Alaïa's satin version is the sleek option. Savette New York's suede top-handle is quieter and more polished. And Naveli Studio's embroidered potli brings the shade into eastern wear, with gold work that makes it festive.
CHARTREUSE GOES DESI
Here's where it gets exciting. Pakistani designers aren't just using chartreuse as an accent anymore. Some have already gone all in.
Eraya Studio's satin short kameez comes with a beaded scalloped neckline, an embroidered hem, wide trousers and a matching dupatta. It's simple, but the colour does all the work.
Nadia Khan Studio pairs a halter peplum top, covered in intricate embellishment, with a draped satin skirt. It's modern, glamorous and ready for a night out.
Zeal Attire keeps it easy with a satin kaftan-style kameez, wide sleeves and sparkling trim, finished with a tulip shalwar.
Generation takes the most traditional route. Its embroidered chartreuse piece features soft pink and lilac florals, proving the colour works just as well on heritage craft.
Firuz Shoes brings chartreuse to the khussa, with pearl and bead latticework set against tan leather. It's a small detail with a big impact.
HOW TO WEAR IT
Neutrals are the safe choice. Black, white and brown let chartreuse be the star.
But if you want to make a real statement, pair it with plum. The two colours sit on opposite sides of the colour wheel, so each one makes the other look richer. Burgundy and cobalt blue work the same way.
It's a braver combination, and a far more memorable one.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
Colour in Pakistani fashion tends to move slowly at first, then all at once. Our prediction: give it a season. Once one major local label puts chartreuse in a full collection, it will be everywhere.
For now, it's still in its early phase, showing up in bags, shoes and a handful of standout outfits. But the signs are clear. Chartreuse won't be a supporting act for long.
— unravelld.
