10 aqua blue fashion essentials you need to add to your basket ASAP

Since Sara Paxton swam onto our screens as runaway siren Aquamarine in Elizabeth Allen’s 2006 rom-com classic of the same name, the seafoam hue hasn’t left our minds.

The actress’ wardrobe was a moment of sartorial enlightenment for 90s-born babies. Saturated with Y2K silhouettes, ruffles and of course, aqua palettes that perfectly reflected her character’s marine roots, the mermaid's costume proved to be an onscreen spectacle in its own right. 

Aqua has long been fashion’s most refreshing shade. From ancient royalty to today’s runway darlings, this oceanic shade has never lost its lustre.

The colour’s origins stretch back to ancient Egypt, where Cleopatra herself was said to favour turquoise gemstones for their protective powers. Fast-forward to the decadent Rococo courts of 18th-century France, and aqua reigned supreme once again, with powdered pastel silks swirling through Versailles. By the 1950s, the shade had become a symbol of mid-century glamour, cropping up in everything from nipped-waist dresses to mint-hued convertibles.

In more recent memory, aqua captured the hearts of Y2K icons - think shimmering eye shadow, bubble chairs, and Britney Spears in that metallic bodysuit. The shade was even announced as Pantone's prestigious 'Colour of the Year back in 2003, with the brand noting: "Soft, calm and cool, the blue-green Aqua Sky lends a serene look."

And now? It’s back and more covetable than ever. Designers like Alaïa, Loewe, and Conner Ives are giving the colour a thoroughly modern twist, pairing oceanic tones with sculptural silhouettes, sporty cuts, and sustainable fabrics. Whether it’s a free-flowing gown or sleek swimsuit for the beach club, aqua is the hue that does it all.

This summer, fashion’s future is looking crystal clear - time to dive in.

Aqua essentials to shop for summer:

How we chose:

• Style: We've selected an array of style-forward shoes featuring a striking aqua hue.
• Price: As the shade is coveted by the luxury sphere, most of the prices teeter on the more lavish side - with a few high street pieces thrown into the mix for all to enjoy. 

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