How to Color-Block in 2012

Boldness is back in style, but rather than through busy patterns or metallic hues, fashion is drifting toward eye-popping solid colors. Think red, orange, yellow, aquamarine, and variations on each. In terms of looks on the runway, Fashion Week in September saw designers taking this boldness to an extreme: full orange suits and blazers, pants the color of highlighter, and color blocking. While pairing a bold color with a less intense shade is fashion common sense (otherwise, you’ll end up looking like a neon sign), what do you do about color blocking?

Color blocking surfaced last in the early 1990s. Trends tend to be recycled over 20 years, but in 2012, you don’t want to look like you stepped out of a ’92 Saved by the Bell episode. Essentially, this means staying away from neon and pastel shades. In 2012, color blocking is all about contrasts.

Beyond your ordinary two-color striped patterns, color blocking often incorporates more shades in uneven quantities. Additionally, no rounded edges are used. Instead, think of un-patterned material with angular shapes, each distinct from the next.

For women, color blocking is possible for nearly any wardrobe piece, from the dress to the handbag. The look of color blocking becomes the center of your outfit, so be sure to play down all pieces paired with it. If you want to keep it subtle, perhaps try a two-tone shirt or jacket, or introduce a few more colors. For handbags, it’s all about the multi-colored stripes and arrangement of rectangles. But if you want a look less eye-catching, opt for a handbag in which each part – body, pockets, and handle – is a different solid color.

Color blocking is possible for men, as well. Because bright colors and bold hues are predicted to be in for spring 2012, consider a few shirts or casual jackets with color blocking. But, don’t get too crazy with the colors. Go for contrasts with up to four shades on a garment.