Colour Block Trend: Orange Purple

Block colours are slowly emerging to be one of the upcoming 2011 spring/summer trends on the red carpet. With stars such as Jessica Alba, Rihanna, Kim Kardashian and Cheryl Cole fronting this trend, adding a splash of bright colour doesn’t seem to be out of the ordinary nowadays. There are many variations of this unusual combination of orange and purple including a version by Diane von Furstenberg as seen below worn by Jessica Alba at the CFDAs earlier this week.
Colour blocking was seen all over the catwalks in many spring/summer collections back in 2009 and it looks like this trend will make an appeareance from time to time again in the fashion world. Taking inspiration from the early 70s, this orange purple colour craze is a great way to infuse your wardrobe with energetic brights.

             Stick to these simple rules for colour blocking and you’ll be catwalk-ready in seconds:
                                    - Complementary colour blocking is a great way to ease into the trend.

- Pair colours from the same family together. Fuschias look great with bright pinks, bold oranges make a statement with shocking reds, and turquoise runs riot with royal blue.

- Keep warmer tones like orange and red together.

- If you’re feeling daring, experiment with mixing and matching. Work fiery oranges with deep purples or fuchsias with tangerines for colour blocking contrasts that are bound to turn heads.

- For a look that’s all about jarring contrasts, pair lime green with soft pinks.

- Opt for simplicity with neutral-toned shoes and break up the blocks of colour with a cream or grey belt.

- Add punch with accessories. Contrast your outfit with a handbag in a clashing colour.

- For a subtle take on the colour blocking trend, team brightly coloured tights or leggings with a simple shift or tunic dress.

- Be confident. Colour blocking is all about bold, bright colours so don’t be afraid to wear the most vivid of shades.
Credit: Rules of Colourblocking: stylejunkee.com