Color blocking has been the fashion world’s favorite trend for the past couple seasons, but the craze for mixing and matching bold, jewel tones started when last year’s Gucci s/s collection was all about clashing teals, purples and deep burnt orange hues. Sometimes, mixing strong colors can seem intimidating and too “out there” for everyday wear, but there are ways to make it work. If you’re looking to make a statement that channels the glamorous sixties, try mixing some royal purple with the seemingly unflattering orange, and you have a look that will make everyone wonder why they haven’t thought of that combo before.
1. Straight from the runway
If you want to imitate the Gucci look from head to toe, break up your colors with a wide gold belt to give it that extra boost of glam. Look for a fitted purple top, preferably with some daring cut-outs, and match it either with a high waist orange skater skirt for a girly look or a curve hugging pencil skirt for a more seductive take on the trend. Any gold belt will pull the look together, but if you happen to find one with tassels, you’ll look like you walked straight out of a Gucci campaign.
Top, Bandage skirt, A-line skirt, Belt 1, Belt 2, Strappy heels,Chunky heels
2. For your next formal
If you want to make a statement at your next formal, look for either a trendy mini peplum dress or a Grecian inspired long gown in a deep purple hue to pair with some vibrant orange heels. Pairing a purple mini dress with orange pumps will complete a fun, flirty outfit that sets you apart from every other girl’s tight-mini-dress-and-heels outfit, and adding a punch of orange to your long, purple gown will show you still know how to have fun while looking sophisticated and picture-perfect.
Mini dress, Long gown, Orange heels1, Orange heels2, Earrings1, Earrings2, Earrings3, Clutch1, Clutch2
3. Making it casual
Believe it or not, the unexpected color blocking with purple and orange can be worn on casual outings such as heading to class, grabbing brunch with some friends or heading to the mall on a weekend. The perfect way to make this combo daytime appropriate is to match a purple cotton romper with some orange ballet flats. We even suggest adding an extra punch with a teal skinny belt to cinch the waist. Add on a neutral carry-all hobo to balance out the colorful outfit and you’ll be surprised how easy it is to put together a casual color blocking outfit that never looks over-the-top. You may think mixing purple, orange and teal is a little out of your comfort zone, but if you’re feeling daring one Friday morning, I say give it a go. Sometimes, a bit of clashing is what defines a fashion trendsetter.
Romper, Flats1, Flats2, Teal belt, Watch, Bag