At the National Television Awards, Helen Skelton paired a royal‑purple maxi dress with bold red accessories, spotlighting the season’s hottest colour combo. Her look is already influencing designers and style‑savvy fans alike.

  • Helen Skelton wore a Solace London purple maxi dress
  • Red heels, earrings and ASOS cuff bracelets created a striking contrast
  • Purple‑red is a leading 2026 autumn‑winter colour trend

A Daring Colour Pairing

On the NTAs red carpet, Helen Skelton dazzled in the Citra strapless maxi dress by Solace London, a deep royal‑purple piece that instantly became the night’s focal point. She amplified the look with red pointed heels, sold‑out red floral earrings from Mango, and a limited‑edition ASOS Design cuff bracelet featuring a watch‑strap motif.

Dress Details

The dress boasts a curved, strapless neckline that frames the bust, a cinched waist, and a column skirt with a short train, delivering a structured yet luxurious silhouette.

Accessory Choices

The rich red heels provide a perfect contrast, while the ASOS cuff adds a modern metallic touch. A silver clutch with a contrasting red tassel, custom‑made by a friend, completed the ensemble.

Historical Background

While purple and red have historically symbolised royalty and power, their pairing surged in the 1970s pop scene and re‑emerged in the 2020s as a bold yet sophisticated trend. Being adjacent on the colour wheel, they blend seamlessly with warm undertones.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the purple‑red pairing resonates with younger consumers seeking bold yet sophisticated looks, driving higher engagement on social media platforms and influencing upcoming runway collections.

“The purple‑red duo signals confidence and luxury, establishing a new benchmark in contemporary fashion.”

Colour Comparison Table

ColourEmotional ImpactTypical Use
PurpleRoyalty, CreativityEvening gowns, statement pieces
RedEnergy, BoldnessAccessories, accent pieces
Did You Know?: The 2026 fashion forecast lists purple‑red as the most cited colour combo across global runway shows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the purple‑red combo suitable for all ages? Yes, with the right shades and accessories it works for every demographic.

Which brands offer pieces to recreate this look? Solace London, ASOS Design, Mango and Boden provide key items for the trend.