A well inspired and ingenioususage of colors can generate a visually balanced output with an effect;pleasing to the eyes. Color blocking refers to the pattern of clothing in whichtwo or more fabrics of complementing colors are sewn together in a creativeway. Red and blue Spiderman costume is an apt example of color block outfits. Theorigin of color blocking dates back to the 60s, when it was popularized by the 'ModFashion'. This fashion culture ushered an innovative, bold and creative styleof clothing that originally belonged to London. The British youth set thetrend, which was later followed by the rest of the world. The muted pastelpalette of the 60s fashion later transformed into bright, bold colors that wereoften applied in geometric patterns.
Colors in Milieu:
Nature's color palette is anassortment of hues; various blues and blacks of a seascape, lush greens of ajungle and hot, arresting reds. A skilled designer understands the subtleinteractions of these hues and bonds them with layers of other colors to givean appealing look to the garment. A perfect assortment of different colors andvarious shades play an important role in defining the look of the finishedoutfit. Initially, blocks of square or rectangular pieces of clothing were sewntogether. The 'Mondrian Dress' designed by late designer Yves Saint Laurentduring the 60s consisted of flat planes revealing the artistic sensibility ofthat time. Later during the passage of time, color blocking has evolved intoother geometric shapes and angular patterns in many vibrant colors.
Sewing the Color Palette:
Color blocking involves cuttingthe fabric along the line where the color change is required, and then adding aseam allowance to both the sides. When the pieces of fabric are sewn together,the final fabric is of the same size and shape as of the original piece, butwith two or more complimenting hues. This type of pattern making is best suitedfor simple and bold designs as elaborated designs would require more seams andmakes the process a complex one, and if the stitching is less accurate it wouldalso affect the finishing of the garment. Order of construction is moreimportant in these clothes, as sewing around sharp angles will be tedious.Color blocking is different from appliqué, wherein one shape is stitched ontoanother piece of fabric. Appliqué requires a lot of pinning, but iscomparatively easier than color blocking. Similarly, it also varies from pipingwhere a contrast color fabric is sewn into the seam in such a way that it protrudes visibly from the outside of the garment.
Color block apparels add a spiritof freshness to any attire, and grabs attention. Today's lifestyle calls foractive apparels, and people wish to look more fashionable and presentable. These outfits have now become a fashion trend. Today's retail market seeks colorblock apparels with an overall effect added with flattering styles. Shades ofbright orange, true red, key lime, alpine green, sky blue and hues of pink arein vogue. New color combinations are being introduced in the market every nowand then to suit the changing preferences of the consumers. Latest fad is 'TonalColor Blocking', which consists of a new dimension with a light and a darkshade from the same color palette.
Color blocked clothes add a graphic element to theappearance of an apparel. They give a magical effect to simple clothes andtransform them into architectural pieces. Color blocking clothes can be rightlydescribed as a 'Fashion Optical Illusion'.
References:
1.
Comments