With fashion trends being “in one day and out the next,” to quote Miss Heidi Klum, it can be hard to stay on the in. One moment, crocs are out, and denim is back in. But I wanted to discuss an emerging trend that many are too hesitant to try: Color blocking. It’s something we’ve all probably heard of but haven’t exactly figured out how or what it even means. So I’m here to ease those fashion anxieties and give you all you need to know about how you can become a color-blocking expert.
The thing with color blocking is that it’s not hard. If you look in your closet, you probably have all the fashion essentials to create this look. But many people don’t jump on the color-blocking bandwagon because they’re not exactly sure how to do it and think they will look like a clown if they try. The basic rule to follow is: one bright, one bold, and one neutral.
For example, look at the picture below. The model is sporting an orange blazer, bright pink jeans, and a blue button-up top. Just simply saying it sounds a bit off, but looking at her, it somehow works! And notice that only the hot pink pants really pop, while the other pieces are soft and accent the overall look.
Now, if you’re still not feeling the look above, try looking at this next example. The model wears white denim shorts and a black strapless shirt with a coral blazer. To complete the ensemble she wears some to-die-for stilettos. But keep in mind – the shoes work because she chose a neutral and black color, whereas if she had chosen three bright prints, she would have had to tone down the shoes. If you don’t think this is cute, then you can no longer call yourself a girl.
To master color blocking, try to stay away from prints. Solid colors work best when trying this look. But what’s great about color blocking is that it gives you a wide range of possibilities for accessories. This trend encourages big and bold jewelry and hair accessories. Color blocking is all about the color, so don’t be shy! Throw on that big, chunky necklace and see your outfit be transformed.
If you’re a beginner at color blocking, just try wearing two pieces – one bold and one more subdued. Once you start feeling more comfortable you can start moving it up to three, or even four, pieces. And just think, when color blocking fades to the back and some new trend comes to the front, these pieces can easily be taken apart and made into something else!