Fashion

Unleash Your Style: The Art of Color Blocking

Published

2 years ago

May 26, 2023

Fashion is an ever-evolving canvas where artistry meets self-expression. If you’re someone who craves a bold and graphic look that demands attention, color blocking might just be the trend you’ve been searching for. Color blocking involves pairing together two or more solid colors to create a visually striking outfit that showcases your unique sense of style. So, let’s dive into the world of color blocking and explore how you can create captivating ensembles that leave a lasting impression.

Understanding Color Blocking

Before we embark on this colorful journey, let’s take a closer look at what color blocking actually is. Picture a canvas where vibrant hues collide to create a captivating masterpiece. That’s exactly what color blocking entails. By combining contrasting or complementary colors, you can achieve a look that is both daring and eye-catching. It’s all about playing with colors to create a harmonious yet attention-grabbing ensemble.

Choosing the Perfect Colors

When it comes to color blocking, selecting the right colors is paramount. Having a basic understanding of color theory is essential in order to create visually appealing combinations. Here are some tips to guide you in choosing the perfect colors for your color blocked outfit:

1. Complementary Colors: Explore the magic of complementary colors, which are those that sit opposite each other on the color wheel. Pairing blue with orange or red with green can result in a captivating and dynamic look.

2. Analogous Colors: Embrace the harmony of analogous colors, which are those that sit next to each other on the color wheel. Combining shades of yellow, orange, and red can create a cohesive and visually pleasing ensemble.

3. Unified Color Family: Another approach is to select colors from the same color family, such as various shades of blue or pink. This can create a subtle and sophisticated look that still grabs attention.

Finding Balance in Color

Once you’ve chosen your colors, the next step is to strike a balance that ensures your outfit doesn’t become overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect color equilibrium:

1. Neutral Base: Start with a neutral base, such as white, black, or gray, and let your colors shine through as accents. This grounding technique prevents your outfit from looking too busy and maintains a sense of harmony.

2. Limit the Number of Colors: To avoid overwhelming your ensemble, stick to two or three colors at most. This allows each color to have its moment without overpowering the overall look.

3. Embrace Asymmetry: Instead of distributing the colors evenly throughout your outfit, experiment with using one color as the main focus and the others as supporting accents. For example, pair a red top with blue pants and yellow shoes for an asymmetric yet captivating combination.

Adding Prints and Patterns

For those seeking an extra dash of flair, mixing prints and patterns with your color blocked outfit can take your style to new heights. However, it’s crucial to tread carefully. Here are some tips to successfully incorporate prints and patterns into your ensemble:

1. Color Cohesion: Choose prints and patterns that belong to the same color family as your solid colors. This ensures a cohesive and harmonious look that ties your outfit together.

2. Use Prints Sparingly: To avoid overwhelming your outfit, limit the use of prints and patterns to one or two items. A scarf or a pair of shoes can serve as the perfect canvas for a splash of patterns.

3. Differing Sizes: If you decide to mix prints, make sure they vary in size. Pairing a small polka dot print with a larger stripe print creates an intriguing contrast and adds depth to your outfit.

Color Blocking for Every Occasion

Color blocking is a versatile trend that can be adapted for various settings and occasions. Here are some tips to help you navigate color

Fashion

Bridal Guide: Top Bridal Fashion Trends of 2025

Published

3 weeks ago

May 12, 2025

Anandhu Aji

Bridal fashion in 2025 is all about redefining tradition with a touch of modern flair. Whether you’re planning your big day or just love bridal style, here’s a quick look at this year’s top trends.

1. Modern Lehengas

Traditional lehengas get a fresh upgrade with 3D florals, bold shades like mauve and emerald, and rich fabrics like velvet. Expect classic silhouettes with unexpected color and texture combos.

2. Satin Minimalism

Sleek satin gowns are in. With clean lines, off-shoulder cuts, and subtle details, they radiate elegance for brides who prefer understated glam.

3. Sarees, Reinvented

Think tulle, organza, ruffles, and structured blouses. The timeless saree is going experimental — and it’s stunning.

4. Sustainable Bridal Wear

Eco-friendly fabrics, recycled embellishments, and upcycled jewelry are gaining traction, combining beauty with conscience.

5. Vibrant Color Palettes

Brides are ditching reds for lavender, emerald, and blush tones. Layered hues bring personality and vibrancy to the aisle.

Bridal Style, Reimagined
2025 bridal fashion is bold, elegant, and deeply personal. Whether you’re leaning classic or contemporary, this year is all about owning your bridal moment — your way.

Fashion

The Year of Statement Hat

Published

10 months ago

August 20, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

When Anya Taylor-Joy stepped out at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in Jacquemus’ Le Chapeau Bomba, a delightfully oversized raffia hat it was clear that this accessory had become the season’s ultimate statement piece. The fall 2024 runways echoed this sentiment, with Chanel and Prada showcasing hats as the new must-have. Think of Sarah Jessica Parker’s oversized Maryam Keyhani creation, worn on the set of And Just Like That… earlier this year, or Margaret Qualley donning Chanel’s nautical style at Cannes. These hats are for the main characters who command attention, making a bold statement long before you arrive.

Altuzarra’s fall 2024 collection featured boxy headpieces on some models, each designed to evoke a specific character. “It was about finding joy in wearing a complete look, fully embodying a character,” explains designer Joseph Altuzarra. Interestingly, this was the label’s first foray into hats beyond casual knit and woven styles. ‘We didn’t plan to sell them,’ Altuzarra admits, ‘but they ended up being a hit.

Similarly, milliner Gigi Burris O’Hara has experienced a surge in demand. Although she launched her brand, Gigi Burris, in 2012, she only opened her first store late last year. “During leaner times, when people become more selective with their spending, they seek joy in thoughtful purchases,” she explains.

After years of embracing a more casual style, we’re now gravitating toward all things expressive. Maximalist content creator Sara Camposarcone has been embracing pieces from small brands like Potion23, renowned for its whimsical, witchy hats. “I feel like I can now wear bolder headpieces that complement my extravagant outfits,” Camposarcone shares. “Since discovering vintage fashion, I’ve developed a passion for finding great vintage pillbox hats or a 1920s fascinator.”

Fashion

The Iconic Bags and Their Names

Published

10 months ago

August 3, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

Handbags are more than just functional accessories; they are statements of style and symbols of status. Over the years, several handbags have achieved iconic status, becoming synonymous with luxury and timeless fashion. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic bags and the stories behind their names.

Hermès Birkin

Origin: The Birkin bag was born from a chance encounter between actress and singer Jane Birkin and Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight in 1981. Birkin mentioned her struggle to find a perfect weekend bag, leading Dumas to design a bag tailored to her needs.

Icon Status: The Birkin is known for its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and high price tag. It has become a symbol of wealth and luxury, often with a waiting list of years.

Chanel 2.55

Origin: Created by Coco Chanel in February 1955 (hence the name), the Chanel 2.55 was revolutionary for its time, introducing the concept of a shoulder bag, freeing women from the inconvenience of clutch bags.

Icon Status: With its quilted leather, chain strap, and distinctive CC lock (added in the 1980s by Karl Lagerfeld), the 2.55 remains a timeless piece, beloved by fashionistas worldwide.

Louis Vuitton Speedy

Origin: Introduced in the 1930s, the Speedy was designed as a smaller version of the Louis Vuitton Keepall. It became particularly popular in the 1960s when Audrey Hepburn requested a smaller version, leading to the creation of the Speedy 25.

Icon Status: Known for its classic monogram canvas and practicality, the Speedy is a versatile bag that has remained a staple in the fashion world for decades.

Dior Lady Dior

Origin: First presented in 1994, the Lady Dior bag was initially known as “Chouchou.” It gained its iconic status when Princess Diana was photographed with it in 1995, leading to its renaming in her honor.

Icon Status: The bag’s signature cannage stitching and dangling Dior charms make it instantly recognizable. It’s a favorite among celebrities and royalty, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.

Gucci Jackie

Origin: Originally called the Fifties Constance, this bag was renamed the Jackie after Jackie Kennedy was frequently photographed carrying it in the 1960s.

Icon Status: The Jackie bag’s hobo shape and piston strap closure make it a timeless piece. It has seen numerous revivals and remains a classic in the Gucci lineup.

Prada Galleria

Origin: Named after the historic Prada boutique in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Galleria bag epitomizes the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship.

Icon Status: With its clean lines, structured shape, and Saffiano leather, the Galleria bag is a symbol of modern elegance and understated luxury.

Fendi Baguette

Origin: Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi in 1997, the Baguette was named for its shape, resembling the French baguette loaf, and designed to be carried under the arm.

Icon Status: Popularized by its appearance on the TV show “Sex and the City,” the Baguette became a must-have accessory, famous for its countless variations in colors and materials.

Balenciaga City

Origin: Introduced in the early 2000s, the Balenciaga City bag, also known as the Motorcycle bag, was designed by Nicolas Ghesquière. Its casual yet chic design quickly gained a cult following.

Icon Status: Known for its slouchy silhouette, distinctive hardware, and tassels, the City bag became an icon of the 2000s and continues to be a beloved piece.

These iconic bags have transcended fashion trends, becoming enduring symbols of style, craftsmanship, and luxury. Each bag tells a unique story, adding to its allure and making it a coveted piece for fashion enthusiasts around the world. Investing in one of these iconic bags is not just about owning a stylish accessory but also a piece of fashion history.