Colour blocking is wearing loud colour combinations to create a dynamic look. Not for the shy-hearted, colour blocking is this summer’s statement trend for bold fashionistas everywhere. Wearing one of the biggest fashion trends of 2011 is not as easy as it looks. Here are the rules for wearing this trend.

Colour Combinations
Colour blocking looks the most striking when all colours are bright, ideally this should be the most dominant colour characteristic of everything you’re wearing. To nail this fashion trend perfectly, choose the right combinations of colours for maximum impact. Colour block colours that work well together include pink and purple, orange and blue, red and pink and cobalt blue and red. Stick to only a few colours, don’t over complicate things.
If you’re colour blocking from head to toe, make sure the block colours are as bright as possible. Pale colours and pastel shades will look too half-hearted, no matter how much they clash.

Avoid Detail
Keep the look clean and simple. Any excessive detail such as ruffles or pocket detail take something away from the overall look. You can still accessorize though with brightly coloured fashion jewelry or a block colour scarf.

The Right Fabrics
Choose rich fabrics such as silk, satin and taffeta in bright colours. They will add a splash of luxury to your look and give the bright block colours an even more sumptuous feel. Fine cotton work well too but avoid thicker fabrics as this will interfere with the clean, sharp look.

Add Colour with Accessories
The easiest way to wear the colour blocking fashion trend is to add an accessory or two in eye-popping colours. A bright pink clutch bag, a pair of neon yellow shoes, a vivid blue bangle or an eye-popping orange belt is all you need to bring an understated outfit up to date this summer.

Wear with Confidence
This is crucial. Stand tall with your shoulders back and a smile on your face so it’s clear you’re happy to be noticed. Make no mistake; colour blocking will get you noticed! For those of you who are a bit less brave, go for a brightly coloured top with jeans or a pair of coloured jeans with a plain T-shirt and accessorize with a scarf or jewelry in contrasting colours. Which shoes to wear? Nude pumps are a sure match.

However you choose to “colour block” have fun. It’s summer after all!