Guide on colour blocking—how to wear it confidently

The Art of Colour Blocking: Statement Dressing Made Simple

Colour blocking is the intentional use of contrasting or harmonious solid hues within one outfit. It’s bold, modern—and surprisingly easy to master when you follow the right rules. Here’s how to build flattering, vibrant colour-blocked looks with confidence.

1. Understand the Colour-Blocking Fundamentals

Colour blocking doesn’t have to be overwhelming:

Start simple: Pair two shades—either opposites for striking contrast, or next-door hues for a softer tone-on-tone palette
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Use proportions wisely: Darker, neutral, or structured pieces balance out bright hues—avoid blocks across the widest area if slimming is your goal
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Avoid loud prints: Solid blocks allow colours to shine without distraction
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2. Colour Pairing: Complementary, Analogous & Tonal

Complementary: Choose colours opposite on the wheel (e.g., cobalt & burnt orange) for punchy looks
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Analogous: Pick colors next to each other (like blue + aqua) for calm, cohesive style
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Tonal: Vary the intensity of one hue (light blush + deeper rose)—sophisticated and subtle
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3. Fit is the Foundation—Colour Blocks Demand Precision

Structured colour blocks require exactly the right fit. If the fit falters, the look falters. That’s where Tellar makes its mark:

Use the Store Size Lookup Tool to input your bust, waist, hips and receive instant size matches across 1,500+ brands.
Benefit from product-level Fit Notes that flag any size irregularities—essential for crisp tailoring.
Tellar helps you avoid mismatched blocks caused by ill-fitting garments.

👉 Get started:

Create your free profile – store your measurements: /create‑profile
Access Store Size Lookup – check size before looping into your cart: /store‑size‑lookup

4. Building Colour-Blocked Outfits

a. Everyday Works Looks

Pair a cobalt blazer with neutral high-rise trousers and pops of colour in shoes or a bag.
Try a scarlet skirt with navy blouse—refined, confident, and office-ready.

b. Casual Weekend

Wear a lemon yellow sweatshirt topped with a camel coat and relaxed denim for polished ease.
Colour-block with accessories—like a bold belt or bag—over monochrome basics.

c. Evening Edge

Go for a dress with panels—scarlet bodice, emerald skirt—for a structural, figure-flattering silhouette.
Keep accessories neutral, letting the blocks command attention.

d. Soft & Subtle Tone-on-Tone

Start tonal: baby blue top + navy trousers, adding accessories in similar shades for polish
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Swap in deeper or lighter shades of the same family—stylish and easy.

5. Tellar-Picked Pieces Worth Buying

House of Sunny Colour-Block Top

Features bright panels and retro cuts—best in true size. If debating, size up, then confirm via Tellar
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Siedres High-Rise Flares

Bold colour blocks in pant designs—size up for curvier thighs. Use Tellar’s fit guidance to be sure
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Kika Vargas Andrea Top

Bold peplum colour block top that flatters at the waist—structured cut, ensure fit with Tellar’s tape
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6. Shop With Intent: What to Buy by Colour-Blocking Type

Type	Pieces to Buy	Tellar Tip
Colour-block tops	House of Sunny panels; Kika Vargas peplum; bold tees	Use Store Lookup to check shoulder/bust fit
Two-tone bottoms	Siedres flares; tailored trousers with contrast hemline	Focus on waist & thigh blocks
Colour-block dresses	Panelled styles with clean cuts—no clashing prints	Check bust/waist alignment
Accessories only	Belts, bags, shoes in block hues	No fit needed—just colour confidence

7. Styling Tips That Work

Balance with Neutrals: A black coat or camel trench tones down brights for everyday wear.
Simplify Accessories: Stick to simple metallic jewellery to keep colour in spotlight.
Mind Vertical Lines: Place colour blocks so they elongate your figure—not cut it off.
Texture Matters: Mix matte suiting and satin accents—dimensional colour feels high-end.
Layer in Blocks: Sheer tops under coloured jackets create layered interest and tonal depth.

8. Colour Blocking & Body Shapes

Hourglass: Block at centre to emphasise waist.
Rectangle: Use horizontal blocks to add structure and visual breaks.
Pear: Bold hues on top, dark solids below balance proportions.
Apple: Colour-block the torso to flatter mid-section; dark panel on arms/legs to frame shape.

Tellar’s brand and fit guides give tailored advice based on your shape and measurements.

9. Seasonal Notes

Spring/Summer: Neon citrus, cobalt, hot pink—look fresh in color blocks
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Autumn/Winter: Deep jewel tones—emerald, burgundy—mixed with earthy neutrals like camel or navy
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Summer Utility: Structured boiler suits in bold blocks—fit matters around waist and shoulders
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10. How to Make Tellar Work for You

Measure yourself with Tellar’s free printable tape then create your profile.
Check size per item before checkout using Store Size Lookup.
Read fit notes carefully—especially for structured or colour-block pieces.
Adjust shopping decisions based on brand-specific tips—size up, size down, or stick true.
Use saved profile across all telling purchases to avoid guesswork.

💡 Final Word

Colour blocking isn’t just for bold personalities—it’s a style strategy anyone can master. With clear rules on pairing, proportions, and tonal strategy, colour-blocked outfits become powerful tools of self-expression.

But success lies in fit: structured blocks demand precise sizing. Tellar’s free tools and fit data ensure you select the right size for every colour-blocked garment—so you can wear bold with confidence and flair.

🔗 Live Tellar Links

Create your profile: /create-profile
Use Store Size Lookup: /store-size-lookup

Stay Connected with Tellar

Get daily fit fixes, styling drops, and colour-blocking inspiration:

Instagram: @Tellarsizing
X (Twitter): @TellarSizing
Facebook: Tellar Sizing