How Style The Color Block Trend Without Failing

In the past season, we started seeing a lot of outfit ideas that were composed of color blocking a super creative idea that is not as easy to pull off as it looks. But once you master the color block trend you will find an infinite option between your everyday garments. Previously, we saw lots of outfit ideas that were made of two-tone blocks of colors, mainly a black and white match, but the color block trend has evolved and now it goes beyond that, combining even more than four different color shades in the same outfit idea. It’s a really chic and versatile trend to wear since you can make outfits that look elegant for an important work reunion but are not dull at all.

You can also use this idea for your everyday outfits for going out with friends or partying. We can throwback this trend to the 1960s and later again in the 1980s, before this past season the last approach designers had to this colorful trend was in 2011, as it can be spotted in Raf Simons’s spring collection from that year. The key is the combination of different shades and in following some simple tips to style this risky trend without failing.

What Exactly Is Color Blocking?

The first thing about the color blocking trend you need to know is that it consists of combining different colors and hues in a harmonious union. Even though the past season we even saw this trend mutating a little bit more into a combination of not only color shades, but of fabrics and materials. Some risky fashionistas have even taken another step in the trend and have involved the combination of different patterns in a very classy way.

How To Style Color Blocking?

The first thing you should do when deciding to explore the color blocking trend is to choose a color scheme. The first styling option you could go for is monochromatic, which means you will only be using one color through the entire outfit in different hues through the pieces of the outfit, for example, you use green as your main color, then you will be using a bottle green shirt, lemon green pants, and emerald green shoes.

Another styling idea you could choose is called separates which means you will be using from two to four different contrasting colors in the same outfit but in different pieces. For example, you will have an outfit that has a yellow skirt, with a fuchsia shirt, an electric blue belt and shoes matched with a white bag. This type of idea gives you more options to explore the trend, the key is to have a great variety of plain garments in your wardrobe.

The last styling idea for following the color block trend you could go for is known as stand-alone, which basically means you will have one garment or accessory which already comes color-blocked. It doesn’t matter is it’s a shirt, jacket, dress or pants. The designer of the garment has already made it easier for you to fall into the trend with just one piece. With this last styling idea is where you can mainly find a print block combination since some designers decided to sell a garment that comes in the same print but in two different shades of color.

What To Do When Color Blocking?

Another step you should follow when applying the color blocking trend to any outfit is choosing a harmonious color scheme. You could easily find a color wheel around the internet to help you out balancing color hues and create a stunning outfit. A huge no to the color-blocking trend is using sharp contrasts because it will cross the thin line of harmonious to clownish. Keep in mind that major colors such as bright pink and orange should always go together, while minor colors will be best matched with minor colors. While you might combine a minor color with a major one the result is not always as great as expected, so be careful if you try that one out.

When using a color wheel to figure out which colors match perfectly with each other you can apply two different techniques. The first one is to use complementary colors which are the ones laying opposite to each other on a basic color wheel. For example, green and red go really good together or turquoise and orange for an elegant fit. The second technique you might apply is using analogous colors to create your color block outfit. Analogous colors are the ones lying next to each other on your basic color wheel, for example blue, purple and fuchsia will make a harmonious trio and will be a pleasing outfit to look at. Don’t forget to look back at your high school art classes and remembering the basic, secondary and tertiary colors that will help you master out this trend.

What To Avoid When Color Blocking?

One common mistake when color blocking is to combine different color saturations, for example combining neons and pastel hues. This is a big no for the trend, you want to look stylish with the color blocking trend not like you are wearing a costume, so be sure to avoid that, stick to just one-color saturation. Another thing to avoid when using this trend is to select pieces that are flattering to you and your body. Since it’s such a risky trend, using the incorrect piece can make it a complete failure, be sure to pay special attention to your complexion and hair color so you can choose the shades that highlight your natural beauty.

Secret Pro Tip!

The number one rule you need to follow when using a color block outfit is to own your look! If you have never tried the trend before at first you might be a little afraid and feel as if you should just stick to your normal outfits, but while thinking outside the box is a risky move, it will surely pay off. Be self-confident and show off your creativity and style. Don’t be afraid of making tons of combinations since the options with this trend are endless!