Tone it up

Summer is on its way and there’s a whole new take on colour. From acid shades to neon brights, multi-colour prints and muted pastels, in jeans, tops and dresses, everyone is looking to tone it up, either to make a statement or to complement a soft pastel.

And you don’t need to stop at just one colour. Mix them up.

But, warns Durban designer, Sbu Msimang, if you mix clashing colours, make sure they are from the same “family”, like neon green and turquoise.

Animal prints are still in vogue but top-to-toe they can be overpowering – break them up with colour, she says.

And while you’re at it, don’t forget your colour-block shoes.

“Keep your dress a solid colour if your shoes are blocked,” advises Msimang.

Kathrin Kidger says we can also expect to see vivid colour prints in Aztecs, tribal 80s-inspired throw-back prints and all-over tropical prints.

Whites and pastels also get a showing. Team a white dress with a statement bright necklace in this season’s citrus yellow. Add colour with a bight, bold lipstick.

“Don’t be scared to play around with different colour combinations, says Hanrie Lues, who adds that beiges and neutrals can be teamed with accessories of varying hues. “Never underestimate the power of striking, bold accessories.”

To breathe new life into existing garments, ombre dye them, suggests Kidger. Hunt down a tutorial on Youtube and get going!

Ombre takes a colour through various shades, from light to dark.

Chiffon is the fabric of the moment. And anything else that is soft and diaphanous – georgette, silk, lightweight voile.

“Viscose is seen in blouses, pants, dresses and skirts,” says Msimang, “and when mixed with chiffon, it gets a sexy new edge.”

The maxi dress is big news as well as pleated maxi skirts. Shorts are an easy-wear option, paired with a chiffon blouse and sandals for day or a pair of killer wedges for evening.

It’s all about having fun, says Laila Baderoon, of the Oo Ilu label. “This season’s trends are feminine and playful.”