Style Guide: Contemporary Colour Blocking

The sun has got his hat on and this means it’s time to ditch the all black e’rything look that you’ve been sporting all Winter, in favour for some brighter hues. One way to achieve this is with colour blocking. The trend first rose to popularity back in the 1980’s, however if retro isn’t your kettle of fish there are plenty of ways to give the look a contemporary update.

The concept of colour blocking is simply marrying two or more block shades together, to bring a modern pop of colour to your ensemble. This could mean bold playful looks that embrace the colour blocking theme from head to toe, or just subtle hints at the trend through your accessories, so there really is a way for everyone to embrace it in some manner.

Here are some of our favourite colour blocking looks of the season to suit every occasion.

All of the Brights

Take colour blocking off duty and hit the streets in style in this vibrant ensemble. As little as one coloured item can be all it takes to make a real statement and we can’t get enough of this bright fuchsia Kenzo vest as the centre piece to the outfit. Pull the look together with some minimalist jeans, such as this Capri cut pair by J Brand and complete with some block coloured accessories to nail the trend.

SHOP: J Brand Sublime Capri Jeans / Kenzo Tiger Vest / Kenzo Leather Shoulder Bag / Adidas Gazelle Trainers

Block Party

Amp up your party ensemble with some brighter hues this season. This gorgeous indigo jumpsuit by DVF is a true shopstopper and there’s no better way to make it pop than with this contrasting red clutch bag by Michael Kors. Layer up in a chic leather jacket for some extra warmth and finish with these exquisite sky high heels Giuseppe Zanotti for the ultimate wow factor.

SHOP: DVF Valda Jumpsuit / DVF Tadessa Leather Jacket /Michael Kors Cross Body Bag / Giuseppe Zanotti Coline Heels

Colour Pop

Can’t bring yourself to part ways with your black wardrobe just yet? No problem. Channel the colour blocking trend by pairing your favourite LBD with some bold accessories, such as these striking royal blue heels by Giuseppe Zanotti and this gorgeous floral orange clutch by Michael Kors. The simple pop of colour is all it takes to instantly elevate your look.

SHOP: Patrizia Pepe Cross Over Midi Dress / Giuseppe Zanotti Chantal Heels / Michael Kors Daniela Clutch Bag

Holiday Hues

If the weather’s bright, your wardrobe should be even brighter! Pack your suitcase full of colour this Summer and you’re guaranteed to look the part in the sunshine. This is where you can really get away with going all out, so be brave and throw together all your most colourful items, to create a look so bright it will rival a rainbow.

SHOP: Heidi Klein Cayman Islands Bikini Top & Bottoms / Conditions Apply See Beach Dress / Stella McCartney Beach Bag / Havaianas Flip Flops

Tone it Down

Colour blocking doesn’t always have to mean bold primary colours and neon hues. This season, pastels are really in and they’re a great for injecting a hint of colour into your ensemble, without it looking too loud. Choose something in a neutral tone as a base and build up your outfit with chic pastel accessories, as a subtle nod to the trend. Michael Kors’ latest accessories collection is full of gorgeous Spring florals and feminine pastel hues.