Style continues to evolve, embracing both the innovative and the nostalgic. One trend that is making a vibrant comeback, even though it rarely fully goes away, is colour blocking. A nod to the bold and expressive styles of the past, colour block outfits offer a fresh, dynamic way to upgrade your wardrobe. Whether you're a colour novice or a colour queen, here's your guide How to Rock Colour Block Outfits with confidence.
The Resurgence of Colour Blocking
Colour blocking made its mark in the 1960s, a decade known for its daring and playful approach to dressing. Fast forward to today, and colour blocking isn't just about pairing bright hues; it's about creating striking, sophisticated looks that make a statement.
Is Colour Block a Style?
Colour blocking is incredibly versatile. It works by using coloured panels on a single garment, for example, a dress or jacket; plus, it works by mixing separate pieces of different colours in a single outfit.
The pieces don’t have to be contrasting colours either. Monochrome or Tone-on-Tone is a sophisticated way to upgrade an otherwise one-colour outfit, without going OTT. This use of tonal-coloured separates can then be mixed and matched to maximise the wear of every piece, as well as layering up or down for seasonal change and dressing up or down for the occasion.
How to Master Colour Blocking
When done right, colour blocking can accentuate your best features and create a flattering silhouette. Strategic placement of colours can highlight your waist, elongate your legs, or balance your proportions.
Start Simple
If you're new to colour blocking, start with two colours. Choose one dominant colour and one accent colour to create a balanced look. For example, pair a green top with teal trousers. As you become more comfortable, you can contrast the colours to make the look more dramatic or add accessories such as belts, handbags and jewellery in greens and blues to continue the tone-on-tone look and break up solid lines.
Use the Colour Wheel
Understanding the colour wheel can be a game-changer. Complementary colours are those opposite each other on the wheel, like red and green, which create a vibrant, eye-catching effect. Analogous colours, which are the shades next to each other, like blue and green offer a more harmonious look. If you’re not sure how to use the colour wheel, or how to identify colours that work in harmony with you, click here for more into on Personal Colour Consultations.
Check Proportions
Balance is key in colour blocking. If bright and bold are not your personal style or taste, pair bright colours with neutral shades. However, pay attention to light and dark regardless of colour. It is the contrast of colours next to each other that creates the most eye-catching shapes and body illusion shapes. Using colour blocking for the illusion of flattering your figure can work both ways and be unflattering if not executed well. Ensure the shape that catches your attention first creates the shape you want to be seen in. For instance, if you are looking to elongate your legs, narrow hips, reduce your bust, or create height, make sure your colour blocks are creating shapes that do that by drawing the eye where you want the observed to look. Colour block shapes that cut across the widest part of your body will add width, and wide contrast cuffs and hems can shorten arms and legs.
Texture and Patterns
Don’t shy away from adding textures and patterns to your colour block outfit. For instance, a knitted fluffy hot pink sweater with a silky bright orange skirt can add depth and interest to your ensemble. However, keep patterns minimal to avoid clashing, and if not sure stick with classic, retro or Aztec patterns.
Accessories Matter
Choose accessories that complement rather than compete with your main colours. A monochrome bag or neutral shoes can tie the look together without detracting from your colour block choices.
Colour Block Trends to Try
1. Earthy Tones
Tones like terracotta, olive green, and mustard. These colours offer a grounded, sophisticated approach to colour blocking.
2. Pastel Mixes
Not everyone’s cup of tea and not just for summer either. Combining pastel shades like lavender, mint, and baby blue can create a soft, ethereal look that is perfect for any season.
3. Monochrome and Tone-on-Tone
For a sleek upgrade and modern take, go monochrome. I instantly think of shades from black to white when the word monochrome is mentioned, so I like to use the term Ton-on-Tone. Choose different shades of the same colour to create a chic, cohesive outfit. Think varying shades of blue or green, texture is welcome too, or gradients of orange and pink.
Confidence is Key
The most important accessory for any colour block outfit is confidence. This trend is about exploring and stepping into a style that you can easily progress from what you already own and wear.
So, dive into your wardrobe, mix and match those colours, and let your style shine. Colour blocking is more than a trend; it's a celebration of individuality and creativity. Happy styling!
Love Sarah x
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