How to Use the Island Citrus Color Trend in Your 2025 Event Décor

If there’s one trend that’s squeezing its way into every stylish celebration this year, it’s Island Citrus, recently named Brides & Minted’s 2026 Wedding Color of the Year. This sun-soaked palette says I’m here to have fun, but in a very curated, very put-together sort of way. Think the elegance of a European summer, the playfulness of a seaside fête, and the kind of color story that instantly brightens a room (and your mood).

Island Citrus isn’t just a palette, it’s a vibe shift. It’s the moment your event goes from “pretty” to “people won’t stop talking about this.” It’s bold without being busy, cheerful without being childish, and the perfect excuse to layer texture, pattern, and personality into every corner of your celebration. Whether you’re all-in on lemon-toned maximalism or prefer a whisper of marigold elegance, there’s a citrus-infused approach for every aesthetic.

Below, we’re breaking down six fresh ways to weave Island Citrus into your event design, from linens to lounges, cocktails to couture. Grab a spritz (literal or figurative), and let’s get into it.

Mix, Match & Let Citrus Lead

Think of it as citrus couture for your tabletop: vibrant, confident and impossible to overlook. Whether you prefer a soft hint of citrus through runners and napkins or a full mix-and-match moment across your event tables, Island Citrus thrives on texture, tone and thoughtful layering. Start with foundational linens in soft neutrals or a stonewashed print  (think Monaco Gold or Amelia Maize), or build dimension via napkins (think Velvet Marigold or for a more subtle touch choose Stonewashed Yellow). Want to get a little tropical? Try our Cabana Stripe Butter. Your table doesn’t need to be dressed top to bottom in yellow; we love tossing in a few complementary citrus hues like tangerine and pomegranate (looking at you, Ali Tangerine) And don’t be afraid to experiment with a little contrast. Layering woven textures with airy fabrics or pairing solids with statement napkins creates a tablescape that feels intentional, elevated and delightfully unforgettable.

Top Table Linen Picks: Maisie Sunshine | Madeline Marigold | Velvet Marigold | Stonewash Yellow Napkin

When Life Gives You Lemons… Decorate With Them

Give your tabletop décor a bright, sensory upgrade. Florals and tabletop accents are where Island Citrus transforms from a color palette into a full sensory moment. Imagine arrangements studded with lemons, kumquats or mandarin branches, adding structure and fragrance to your design. Pair them with seasonal blooms (think butterfly ranunculus, marigolds, dahlias or garden roses) that echo the citrus spectrum. Incorporate glowing candlelight, sunny stationery elements, and soft metallics for contrast. Even a simple bowl of whole lemons or a slice tucked into a napkin fold adds charm without overwhelming the table. The magic of this trend lies in its balance: polished enough for a black-tie affair, playful enough for a backyard celebration.

Sips & Sweets: Make It Deliciously On Theme

Let your cocktails and desserts do the citrus storytelling Your signature cocktail, dessert display, and even your welcome beverages are effortless ways to carry the Island Citrus theme through the guest experience. Think grapefruit spritzes garnished with rosemary, blood orange margaritas, limoncello-infused prosecco, or citrus-forward mocktails that deliver freshness without the alcohol. For desserts, lemon tarts, orange blossom cakes, or citrus-glazed cookies feel cohesive, intentional, and celebratory. These touches elevate the theme while staying approachable and your guests will feel the sunshine in every sip and bite. Bonus: citrus-forward treats are incredibly photogenic, giving your event an extra layer of visual storytelling.

Lounge in Living Color

Layer pillows and soft seating in juicy, sunlit hues Lounge spaces are the perfect canvas for bold color, making them a natural home for the Island Citrus trend. Start with neutral or natural-toned furniture, then build in layers of pillows that echo the palette like bright butter hues, marigold velvets and citrus-inspired prints. Mix patterns and solids for depth, and don’t shy away from playful shapes or scalloped edges to add dimension. This approach creates a relaxed yet elevated environment where guests can gather, sip, mingle, and soak in the atmosphere. When executed well, an Island Citrus lounge becomes its own destination: warm, stylish and effortlessly inviting.

First Impressions Matter

Set the tone with citrus-kissed stationery moments Your stationery suite is the prologue to the celebration, giving guests a visual hint of what’s to come. For an Island Citrus-inspired event, opt for sunlit palettes, watercolor fruit motifs, textured papers and typography that feels clean and modern. Invitations can subtly nod to the theme with soft illustrations or bold citrus hues; menus and place cards can echo the tablescape through pattern or color. Even day-of signage, welcome notes, and escort displays can incorporate citrus elements for continuity. When the paper story matches the event design, the entire celebration feels cohesive and beautifully curated from the very first glance.

Dress the Part

Bring the palette to life through attire and accessories Fashion offers an unexpected and delightful way to carry the Island Citrus theme beyond décor. Bridesmaids in soft butterscotch or lemon chiffon create an instant color story. Groomsmen can echo the palette through ties, pocket squares, or boutonnieres in warm citrus tones. For themed events, you might encourage guests to dress within a citrus-inspired palette for the welcome party (think sun-washed linen sets, marigold dresses or playful patterned shirts.) Even small accessories like hair ribbons, floral jewelry or shoes can add pops of color that tie the palette together. It’s a fun, fashion-forward way to extend the theme into every frame.