
Summer is here, and bigger, brighter and bolder is on the agenda for fashion this season.
LET'S TALK COLOUR BLOCKING
This is not a new trend but it’s back and better than ever! Colour-blocking first began in the late 1960s when fashionistas began pairing tones together to create a bold, electrifying statement ensemble. This is accomplished by matching shades from the opposite side of the colour wheel together. If you’re new to this trend, and want to slowly start experimenting with it, here are a few pointers to get started.
MONOCHROMATIC MOMENTS
Start incorporating colour into your wardrobe by choosing just one colour. Then mix and match textures, shades and saturations of the same tone to create an interesting colour palette. Mix different shades of the same colour, such as a blush-pink blouse with bright-pink pants. You can’t go wrong with this one – the combinations are endless. Just be sure to choose a colour that compliments your hair and skin tone. Monochromatic colour-blocking is also a nifty trick if you want to look stylish and sophisticated.

X2 COLOUR COMBOS
Ready to take it up a notch? Then start combining colours from opposite sides of the colour wheel to create a bolder look: purples and yellows, blues and oranges, reds and greens.
These combos are powerful. Summer is all about vibrant, fresh tones so pair vivid colours together (instead of pastel shades).

X3 COLOUR COMBOS
This level of colour-blocking is our favourite. The trick to pulling off a trio of colours is confidence. Be as vibrant and bold as the colours you wear. You can create great colour combos by following the colour wheel.
A great tip to start with is by wearing the darker colour over the less desirable part of your body, and the brightest colour over your favourite part. This will highlight your best features and have you feeling and looking radiant. Throw in a contrasting accessory to complete your look.
A FEW COLOUR-BLOCKING COMBINATIONS TO TRY:
- A light-pink dress paired with a strappy orange sandal, topped with a bold red belt.
- For a summer night event, merge a mint-green power suit with a purple sparkly heel and a yellow textured clutch bag.
Colour-blocking can be a bit tricky but when done correctly, it can really take your look from “okay” to “fabulous”.
Don’t be afraid to jump into this fashion trend this festive season. Summer is a great time to incorporate new colours and textures into your wardrobe. Go on, give it a go!

HERE’S A FEW STYLING TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND:
- Don’t overdo it with accessories. Colour-blocking is a statement on its own and deserves to be the main attraction.
- The devil is in the details. Don’t exaggerate your make-up. Keep it simple and clean with a nude or glossy lip.
- Don’t be intimated by trying different colour combinations. Take a risk... You may end up loving it and discovering your signature look!
Text by: Mia-Tess Smith
Images: Gallo Images/Getty Images, Shutterstock
HOW TO INCORPORATE POPS OF COLOUR LIKE A PRO
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
December 05, 2022
Rating:
