This Autumn/Winter fashion show was inspired by the art of Piet Mondrian, an influential pioneer of abstract paintings. Mondrian created pieces in the early 1900s that were dominated by geometric blocks of bold primary colors. His complimentary arrangements with their high contrast color block patterns were certainly eye catching but in the 1940s, color blocking remained only a high fashion concept and did not permeate into mainstream fashion.

It was only into the 60s that the color block style became a force to be reckoned with in fashion. The 60s was a time for revolution and liberation from societal norms and color block fashion was a great way for one to express their allegiance to this movement. It was here that mod style was born and at the heart of this concept was the employment of bright color block patterns.

Color-blocking began to wane in the 70s as hippie fashion with its intricate prints and flowing fits began to dominate the landscape. But the trend re-emerged with gusto in the 80s in tandem with the rise of hip-hop, glam rock and disco music. Colors were cranked up another notch with the introduction of neon party-wear and new silhouettes began to emerge such as crop tops, boxy fits and over-sizing. And it was here that saw the birth of the color block style’s most ubiquitous child ? the color block hoodie!