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How to Color Block Outfits Without Looking Like a Toddler

Color blocking sounds ( and looks a little bit ) like an 80’s pop band, but it is simply the fashion of wearing multiple blocks of color in an outfit. 

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Spring is absolutely the perfect time for this bold and playful fashion, but how do you dress in blocks of color without looking like either the cutest baby on the block or Punky Brewster? We have the answer

How to Color Block Outfits

1. Start with the obvious.

Which colors flatter you most? What looks amazing with your hair and skin? These aren’t the only colors you can use, but you might want to keep these colors as the ones close to your face — that is, in your shirt or the top of your dress.

2. Grab a color wheel.

The most helpful tool in color blocking is the color wheel. You can use shades of the same color, colors in the same family, or even colors across the wheel from each other.

3. Put the prints away.

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The blocks of color create their own pattern. However, rules are made to be broken, so if you find a pattern and a color block and just know it is killing it, go for it.

4. You don’t have to buy new clothes.

If budget or your sense of style leaves you picking items from your own wardrobe, that’s OK. Combine a solid-colored shirt, solid-colored skirt and belt and aha! You’ve color blocked like a pro. You can build other ensembles with the same colored shirt and jacket, but swap in black pants.

5. Keep accessories neutral.

The eye is already overwhelmed with the big bold chunks of color.

We’ve gathered some fashionably chic images of color blocking done right for inspiration. Go forth and color block!

Color block tank top
Color blocked outfits
Color blocked bathing suit
Color blocked dress
Color Blocked Manicure
Color blocked skirt in green with yellow top
Pink skirt and orange top
Color blocked outfit
Katy Perry color blocked outfit
Helen Mirren wearing red dress and pink cardigan