50 Shades of Green: How Pop Culture is Painting Fashion’s Future

The Green Takeover: How Color Trends Shifted from Barbie to BRAT 

If 2023 had an official dress code, it would be “Barbiecore.” The moment Margot Robbie glided onto our screens in hot-pink rollerblades, the world decided pink was more than just a color—it was a cultural phenomenon. Yet just as quickly as pink claimed the spotlight, another hue began its rise: green.  

According to color psychology, green embodies growth, renewal, and energy. Perhaps after years of pink-fueled nostalgia, consumers gravitate toward something that feels fresher, bolder, and more defiant. It signals a shift toward confidence and exploration—away from the safe familiarity of pink and into a shade that can be as edgy as it is natural. 

This didn’t happen overnight. In fact, the seeds were planted in 2022 when Maddy Perez (played by Alexa Demie in Euphoria) appeared on screen in a silky Seth Pratt bedgown and a Jacquemus romper.  

Search queries for “pastel green outfits” surged almost immediately, foreshadowing the green wave that has now taken over runways, street style, and everyday wardrobes alike. 

While pastel and mint greens quietly circulated in fashion circles for years, 2024 has ushered in something louder, bolder, and more rebellious. 

Neon. Lime. Brat Green.  

Brat Summer & The Charli XCX Effect 

If pastel green was the soft whisper of change, Charli XCX was the one who grabbed a neon sign and microphone to sing it into reality. It wasn’t just a bold color choice—it was a statement. 

Charli’s Brat Summer was more than an album—it was a full-scale aesthetic movement. Her grungy, Y2K, Bratz-inspired fashion included oversized sunglasses, miniskirts, leather, and, of course, blinding neon green. A signal to the world that being a brat wasn’t an insult—it was a lifestyle that’s here to stay. 

And the internet? Immediately ate it up. 

TikTok trends, Instagram mood boards, and runway collections quickly followed suit. Neon green became the moment, whether worn with latex bodysuits, chunky footwear, or even unexpected touches like sunglasses and manicures. 

Neon green, in particular, has always been a power move. It’s unapologetic and demands attention. Think Billie Eilish’s lime green roots or the highlighter-hued streetwear of the early 2000s. Now, paired with the Brat movement, it’s transformed into a fashion rebellion, a middle finger to neutral tones and “quiet luxury” minimalism. 

Can you Guess if Charli XCX was inspired by Billie Eilish? 

If Brat Green is the loud, rebellious rule-breaker—bold, chaotic, and stomping through the streets in platforms—then Wicked’s green is its refined, theatrical counterpart, dripping in old Hollywood glamour. While neon green pulses with Y2K nostalgia and underground club energy, forest green is sweeping across high fashion, evoking power, elegance, and a touch of mystery. One is unapologetically in-your-face, while the other is enchantingly sophisticated. But together, they prove that green isn’t just having a moment—it’s leading a full-blown revolution.  

Wicked’s Influence: The Emerald Takeover 

With Wicked: Part Two on the horizon, green’s star power is reaching spellbinding new heights. The moment fans caught glimpses of Cynthia Erivo's Elphaba draped in deep forest hues became the next cultural obsession.  

As Barbie proved with its pink-drenched marketing blitz, movie tie-ins, and method of dressing are powerful tools in pushing a trend from the screen to the streets. Wicked-inspired color palettes are creeping onto our feeds, seamlessly blending nostalgia with high fashion. 

But this isn’t just about fandom—it’s about how emerald and olive, long tied to nature, harmony, and resilience, make their way into everyday wardrobes. From haute couture to streetwear, Wicked’s rich hues set the stage for a new wave of renewed fashion. 

How to Wear Green Without Resembling a Glow Stick 

Green might be trending, but let’s be honest—it can be a tricky color to wear without resembling a human traffic light. Here are some ways to pull it off: 

1. Soft Start: Pastel Green 

If neon feels too much, take inspiration from Maddy Perez’s Euphoria look and start with pastels. A muted dress, mint-hued accessories, or pastel-toned knits can ease you into the trend without overwhelming your wardrobe.

2. Go Bold with Brat Green 

Feeling adventurous? Lean into the Brat aesthetic with a bright statement piece—crop top, mini skirt, chunky platforms, and a bold bag to add some edge. 

3. The Perfect Pairings 

Green pairs well with earth-toned neutrals like brown, beige, and white, but for a more Wicked-inspired color-blocked look, try emerald or olive paired with black. 

4. Sustainability Meets Style 

Embracing green isn’t just a fashion choice—it should be an eco-conscious one, too. Thrift your green pieces, opt for secondhand items, or rent a bold green outfit for a one-time event instead of buying low-quality fast fashion.