Fashion, much like history, has a tendency to repeat itself. After the vindicated return of bell-bottoms, velvet dresses, overalls and other old-timers from our moms’ closets, we’re not too surprised that another sartorial favorite has found its way to 2017. Cue colorblocking. Again.
Back in the day, contrasting colors were thrown together to make a bold statement that cashed in on its clash quotient. Yellows and purples had fevered flings, while blues and yellows competed for attention on the same silhouette. Today, it’s same same, but different.
Whether it’s a single, bright statement piece, or subtly matched monochromes, playful primaries or head-to-toe monotone, color’s making a crazy cool comeback. And if you ask us, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. What better season than the monsoon to reenergize your wardrobe with pops of beautiful, bright, gloom-defying hues?
KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY
Color-blocking’s soft-wear upgrade says you don’t need to play Russian Roulette with the color wheel anymore. Instead of ‘blocking’ with contrasting separates, you’re ‘toning’ with colors in the same family, or going monochrome with varying shades of the same color. Add depth to red coordinates with a flush of pink, or play up tans and nudes with a rich ochre. Just remember the two cardinal rules – the first, use a maximum of three colors, and second, stay away from prints unless you’re a pro.
POP, LOCK AND DROP IT
If your closet is full of neutrals, and you’d like to keep it that way, you can still have some fun with statement accessories, or even your makeup. Express your solidarity with trend through a standout, color-panelled handbag or fun shoes that add a colourful shock to a serious outfit. You can also take the beauty route with acid-bright eyeshadow or bright, pigmented lip color on an otherwise bare face.
THE FULL-MONTY MONOTONE
If you want to get on the brights bandwagon, but aren’t confident about mixing colors, stay safe with a primary-colored dress for an instant and effortless pop. Couple it with neutral accessories, like nude shoes or a metallic bag. At work, you can opt for a stand-alone piece, like engine red trousers or a jacket, and keep the rest of the look understated. That way, you’re still on trend without looking too OTT for the office.
TRY IT WITH TEXTURES
The right fabrics can lend dimension and drama to an otherwise (literally) monotonous look – and there’s no dearth of them on the shelves. From suede and faux leather to luxuriant silk and sporty mesh, ethereal organza and lace to down-to-earth cottons, you can mix and match to add depth to your outfit, especially if you’re going for the tonal look. Our fave combo? Feminine lace paired with rock ‘n roll leather!
DOSE IT DOWN WITH DENIM
If we know one thing for sure, it’s this: denim ain’t ever going out of style. What’s better – it’s had so many uber-cool updates! Between embroidery, patchwork and tassels to cuffs, careless rips and fringed silhouettes, denim is all-inclusive and oh-so-easy to wear. Pair a monochrome top and jacket with a pair of lived-in jeans, get yourself a dual-toned denim shirt, or go all out with a color-toned Canadian tuxedo – that’s head-toe-denim in different shades or washes.
