STYLING
LOVE POLKA DOTS? COLOUR-BLOCKING IS THE TREND TO TRY NEXT
By Ayis Stephen-Diver, 6 July 2026
Over the last few years, few prints have become quite as prominent as the polka dot. It’s become social media’s darling – and for good reason. But if you’re looking to broaden your fashion horizons and take a fresh approach to summer dressing, let us introduce you to the season's newest trend – colour-blocking. Arguably more versatile than its dotty sibling, colour-blocking allows you to experiment with different shades and colour combinations for a totally unique look every time you leave the house. Sound good? Let's get into it.
Picture: Getty
WHAT IS COLOUR-BLOCKING?
Colour-blocking is the art of stacking solid colours in one outfit, creating a visually striking, intentional look. The best thing about it? You have free rein on which colours to put together. A cobalt-blue top with a tomato-red skirt constitutes colour-blocking, as does a burgundy dress with chocolate brown boots. Alternatively, style three bold shades together like Bel Powley – we love the primary colours she's chosen for this look.
Actress Bel Powley shows how colour-blocking is done at Wimbledon (left).
THE COLOUR COMBINATIONS WE'RE STYLING THIS SEASON:
#1: BLUE AND PINK
A truly impactful colour-blocking pairing is cobalt blue and hot pink. Sitting opposite each other in temperature rather than on the colour wheel, the two shades create an energetic contrast that’s super summery. Lean into the season with floaty silhouettes, llike an off-the-shoulder top and slip skirt. When it comes to accessories, there are several options. You can repeat one of the colours, temper the look with neutrals – or both. As we said, there are no rules when it comes to colour-blocking, it’s all about experimenting until you find what feels right.
GET THE LOOK:
01: COLLUSION off shoulder drapey top in bright pink, £22.99
02: ASOS DESIGN 90's slip skirt in turquoise satin, £28
03: ASOS DESIGN medium headscarf with lace trim in blue, £16
04: ASOS DESIGN Luminous jelly caged ballets in clear, £18
#2: RED AND PURPLE
Another favourite? Tomato red and purple. Unlike above, these shades are opposites on the colour wheel, and that's why it works. Bold red brings warmth into the mix, while purple adds depth and richness. As we're dressing for summer heat right now, it’s only right to start with airy linen trousers – like this Topshop pair. A relaxed purple shirt is perfect for an off-duty vibe, and you can elevate the look with help from statement heels and a clutch.
GET THE LOOK:
01: ASOS DESIGN Harlow toe thong wedge sandals in leopard, £30
02: Topshop linen straight leg trouser with deep cuff in red, £38
03: ASOS DESIGN oversized wide sleeve shirt in violet, £30
04: Topshop Gaia oversized suedette clutch bag with hardware in beige, £30
#3: YELLOW AND GREEN
Thanks to their natural harmony, yellows and greens make an age-old combination in both fashion and interior design. Together they evoke images of golden hour, fresh foliage and good vibes. Here, we've gone for some khaki-green parachute trousers – a staple this season – and styled them with a yellow cami for an easy daytime look. For a touch of texture and Y2K, layer them with a poncho. Flip flops are ideal for summer, but if the occasion calls for it you can swap them for trainers.
GET THE LOOK:
01: COLLUSION rib cami top in yellow, £7.99
02: ASOS DESIGN parachute cargo trouser in khaki, £36
03: ASOS DESIGN slim oval sunglasses in milky white, £14
04: Havaianas puffed flip flops in yellow, £34
05: Reclaimed Vintage crochet knit metallic poncho in olive, £26.99
#4: BLUE AND BROWN
Pictures: ASOS
You can also colour-block with more understated tones. The combination of blue and chocolate brown feels harmonious yet striking, offering a softer take on the typically bold colour-blocking trend. We love butter yellow and pastel pinks with this shade of brown, too. For a polished, preppy look, team a blue polo shirt with a brown mini skirt. Add to the aesthetic with brown knee-high boots and a striped headband.
GET THE LOOK:
01: Polo Ralph Lauren slim fit stretch polo shirt in navy, £125
02: Stradivarius Flat leather effect boots in brown, £59.99
03: Cotton On estelle mini satin skirt with lace trim in brown, £25
04: ASOS DESIGN striped jersey headband in blue and brown, £8
