COLOUR BLOCKING - Be prepared to get noticed this summer as bold new shades take centre stage on High Street



 "Colour blocking" is this season's hottest trend -- it means combining strong, bright colours in the same outfit -- let's say a turquoise skirt with a yellow top and purple bag. You need to avoid pattern to create the best graphic effect. Seen on all the catwalks, bold colour is a massive trend this season with designers such as Prada, Christopher Kane and Louis Vuitton pushing this trend.So ditch your normal muted palette and throw yourself head first into all things bright. Mix two or three block colour separates, complimentary or clashing, everything goes.

I'm a huge advocate for indulging in bright colours, so long as you choose shades which complement your skin tone. It is extremely important and makes so much difference. For example, if you're cool toned, (pink or rosy under tones to your skin) blue works really well, while warm skin tones, look great in yellow hues. The easier way to wear colour will be with neutrals and white and stick to simple shapes for maximum effect.

Ted Bakers Flashie skirt, with its block colour stripes in bright tones, is a perfect example of this but for those that don't want to wear the trend so obviously, accessories are a really good way of introducing new ideas and getting the look. From summer dresses to sun hats, there is so much available on the high street that taps into this trend .By adding simple graphic elements to dresses, skirts, bags and shoes colour blocking can transform simple pieces into something more architectural.The rule is: it's all right so long as it's bright.

Stick to these simple tips and you'll be carrying off couture cool in no time.

1: Don't be afraid to clash: For those who use black as a security blanket, then this won't be easy. But to carry blocking off with aplomb you need to throw the style book out of the window.

2: Three is a magic number: Two colours are fine for amateur blocking but the professionals show their style by combining three for maximum effect. Don't get too cocky though - too many bold blocks and you'll look more like a Rubik's cube.

3. Be bright and beautiful: This trend is all about bold bright colours and works best with the most vivid shades, with a combination of red, orange and pink working particularly well.

4: Great -whatever your size: Chose you’re blocking carefully and it could take inches off you in an instant. Dark side panels in particular help slim the waist and hips.

     "I dress for the image. Not for myself, not for the public, not for fashion, not for men."

 Marlene Dietrich

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