Off The Cuff
(Color) Block that point: Mix and match bold shades to make a fashion statement
While black doesn't always work in colorblocking unless it's matched with a boldcolor, like in this black and red colorblock dress from Marc Jacobs Marc by Marcspring 2012 collection
Red sweater and pink peplum skirt by Giambattista Valli
Rag & Bone spring 2012 collection features bold oranges and bluesPhoto by Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week)
Colorblocking can also include softer colors; this dress is from the spring 2012J Mendel collectionPhoto by Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week
Trends in fashion are exciting to follow, providing women with fresh ways to update the otherwise occasionally banal wardrobe. They keep fashion-crazed women like me inspired and motivate us to stay in style and on top of our game.
However, just because something becomes a trend does not necessarily mean we should immediately jump on the bandwagon. Some silhouettes are reserved for certain body types and other color palettes are simply better suited for specific skin tones.
However, one trend that can potentially look great across the board is the art of color blocking. The catch? It can be incredibly tricky to get right.
Tip: you can also mix red with bright pink for a really fun take on the trend. My personal favorite color blocked combo thus far is this red sweater and pink peplum skirt courtesy of Giambattista Valli.
Color blocking has been hot on the scene this year and won’t be going away any time soon; it will be in full effect come spring! But don’t be fooled. This trend is not just for the warmer months, there are plenty of ways to work the look into your fall wardrobe.
Whether you like to take risks or want to experiment without shocking, here are a few ideas to help you stay on the color blocking trend for fall:
Block it
The whole idea behind color blocking (block being the operative word) is to mix and match colors in a chunky, statement-making way. Unless you are working with a dress that already has trend worked in, like this one by Mason by Michelle Mason, opt for separates in rich hues like red, bright pink, purple, orange and emerald or kelly green.
You can also color block with a solid dress by popping your accessories, just be sure to use a bright dress like this highlighter yellow Michael Kors number. Block it by carrying a bright blue clutch and some colored heels.
Go for brights
For a fall look in bright colors, start with a lively blouse on top, like this gorgeous green silk stunner by DKNY. Pair with a pretty purple skirt like this one by Dallin Chase – the leather is on trend and perfect for fall. Reach for a pair of Bordeaux tights for a real statement.
If pants are more your speed, try a pair in a beautiful orange hue like these Roberto Cavalli silk crepe de chine wide leg trousers. For something slightly more wallet friendly, try a mustard colored skinny jean.
Mix red & Bordeaux
If you want to test out the trend but aren’t really into brights or don’t want to spend the cash on candy colored clothing just yet, this color combo is a safe bet. I highly recommend you work a piece of Bordeaux into your winter wardrobe — it is everywhere!
A red silk blouse is also a great investment and a classic staple, I haven’t met a woman who doesn’t wear red well. Pair this Parker wrap top with a pair of Burgundy skinnies (bonus points if they’re printed) like these by Current/Elliot.
Tip: you can also mix red with bright pink for a really fun take on the trend. My personal favorite color blocked combo thus far is this red sweater and pink peplum skirt courtesy of Giambatistta Valli.
Work in the trend with shoes and accessories
Accessories are a great way to color block without a huge commitment or to enhance your already blocked ensemble. J.Crew has a great selection of brightly colored scarves, you can even monogram them to personalize (a great gift idea too). A colored belt can also break up the outfit and add additional color.
Finally, don’t forget the shoes! Brian Atwood did a fantastic color block pump and they will absolutely be a part of my spring wardrobe! I can’t wait to mix them with fun and funky florals and prints.
I hope this inspires you to test out the trend this season and into the next. A tip: try to stay away from black when color blocking (this is how it can tend to go wrong) and don’t be afraid to test out some brights!
Lindley Arnoldy writes the fashion and style blog The Flip Side
