Purple is the New Crimson

Purple made a splash at several notable 2026 fall-winter fashion shows worldwide, including Victoria Beckham, Valentino, and Tory Burch. At New York Fashion Week, purple dominated the catwalk, rocking shades ranging from violet to aubergine. Last year, however, kids and adults alike raced to the stores to grab the last red sweater or pair of ballet flats in their size. But this trend seems to have fallen flat, and purple seems to be the new crimson.

This shift is not new or surprising. Purple made a quiet entrance in 2025, with shades of lilac and lavender first appearing across collections. Fall 2025 brought jewel tones from brands such as Miu Miu, Gucci, and Nina Ricci. Purple has slowly overtaken crimson, a key color in fall 2025, which now seems to be on the decline.

Now, the purple trend seems to be hitting its peak, and as the signature color of the “Harvard Independent,” we at 12 Arrow Street have never been prouder. So, fashion-forward readers, here is a list of purple items you should get your hands on this fall!

Alexander Julian Colors Sweater

This vintage Alexander Julian sweater is the perfect statement piece to throw on as Cambridge temperatures dip. The pattern features royal purple, violet, and lighter magenta shades.

You will have to buy it secondhand, but it is worth it—the sweater is 100% cotton, with a textured, heavy-weight knit that adds intrigue to any outfit.

Brandy Melville Amara Top

The Purple Amara Top is a familiar sight for any die-hard Brandy Melville fan. This long-sleeve with a scalloped V-neck comes in a beautiful shade of plum, and like most Brandy items, it is 96% cotton. The Amara Top pairs well with flare jeans or wide-leg sweatpants for a casual fall outfit.

L’Oréal Mascara

Colorful mascara has been in for 2026. Its striking pop makes it an easy way to add color to any initially drab look. Running late to class and still rocking the groutfit you slept in? No worries! The L’Oréal Mascara in Deep Violet should be the first item you grab as you head out the door. It is colorful but not too bright, and it brings out your eyes without overwhelming them. L’Oréal’s volume-focused formula helps your lashes look thicker while preventing clumping. And before you ask, no, I am not being paid for this endorsement—though I would not oppose commission if any L’Oréal executives are reading this.

Kiko Milano 3D Hydra Lip Gloss

Kiko Milano’s 3D Hydra Lip Gloss went viral on social media for its hydrating effect, thanks to Bidens pilosa extract, cottonseed oil, and linseed oil. I haven’t tested this in the wind with my hair down (if you know, you know), but the gloss is said to make your lips shine without that wet, sticky effect. The shade Deep Purple is a warm mulberry, and works well with everything from a dark lip liner to a solo moment.

Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush

Tower 28 is a personal favorite! Cream products are popular for their easy application and buildable formula, letting you create a softer, more glowy look. Tower 28’s BeachPlease Cream Blush is vegan, silicone-free, and super blendable, resulting in a shinier finish. You can use it on both cheeks and lips, creating a more cohesive overall look. Though I know I am not alone in turning away from the darker purples on Sephora shelves, their shade Party Hour, described as “sun-kissed lavender pink,” could be your solution to another dateless weekend. Bonus points: it comes in a compact for easy portability!

BDG Karlie Lock Shoulder Bag

The BDG Karlie Lock Shoulder Bag from Urban Outfitters—specifically in the shade Grape—is everything. It is the perfect addition to any outfit, letting you carry all your other purple items (obviously). Made of faux leather with retro-looking hardware and a lock charm, it has a unique look that jazzes up any outfit. With interior pockets and zipper closure, it is stylish and practical. What could be better?

Lush Sleepy Body Lotion

While this might be pushing the bounds of what counts as purple “fashion,” Lush’s Sleepy Body Lotion is too good to leave off this list. It blends lavender oil, ylang-ylang oil, benzoin resinoid, and cocoa butter into a soft, lilac-colored cream. The comforting scent and the moisturizing effect are certainly relaxing, and users have even claimed that the lotion cures insomnia. Admittedly, lavender has been shown to help relieve stress and anxiety, and god knows we all could use that.

Garage Sleek Scoop Cami Top

Garage is popular for its trendy basics. It does not, however, get enough credit for its consistent releases of new colors. They recently released their Wild Berry Maroon shade—a hybrid magenta-purple tone—that is a perfect, more muted option for fall and winter. Their Sleek Scoop Cami Top is a fan favorite for its soft texture and its flattering, supportive cut. You can easily dress it up or down, with its minimalist design making it a great foundational piece for any wardrobe. Though, as a California native myself, I have been warned: Cambridge gets cold. Do not go sporting the slim-fit tank top in December with a puffer and think you will beat frostbite.

Ralph Lauren Mesh Polo Shirt

The Ralph Lauren Mesh Polo Shirt is an iconic classic: 100% cotton, short-sleeved, with its signature polo player embroidered on the left chest. These shirts pair with almost anything and come in a veritable cornucopia of purple shades, including lilacs, lavenders, and royal purples.

For the especially bougie, anything Purple Label would also do.

True Religion Super Qt Boxy Zip Hoodie

This hoodie is great for layering, with a fleece lining and a looser, boxier fit. The white high-contrast stitching, along with the text and graphics, gives it a distinctive look. True Religion offers you a statement piece that is still comfortable and easy to style. Their shade Magma is a deep, bluish purple that nicely complements the copper hardware.

Aritzia Cozy Sweatfleece Mega Flutter Sweatpants

These high-rise sweatpants are made of Aritzia’s signature Cozy Sweatfleece—a midweight fleece blend that customers love. The pants feature an adjustable drawcord waistband, wide legs, and a finished hem for a put-together look that is still cozy. Their shade options include Geode Purple, a lighter lavender, and Gala Plum, a deeper, reddish tone. Wear them for lounging, late-night studying, or class.

Hopefully, you found something on this list that you like, but there are so many cute purple options out there. So give it a try: whether you prefer a soft lavender or a bold violet, purple is the perfect choice for the fall semester—crimson is so last season. Happy styling!

Anika Gupta ’30 (anikagupta@college.harvard.edu) loves that the Indy gives her an excuse to wear purple!