Color-Block Party: 5 Ways To Rock It For Work & Play

Nanette Lepore S/S 2012

Summer is upon us and you know what that means? Time to incorporate explosive colors into the wardrobe! Yes, ladies, long gone are the days of black, navy and gray. With summer 2012 trends being all about neons and pastels, there's no room for neutrals in your arsenal.

Last weekend I attended the Rising Affluent conference to speak on a panel about branding & social media. While there, I was greeted by some super chic women in business casual brights that made me do a double take. Take a cue from these fashion-forward mavens on how to incorporate color into your wardrobe:

1. Skirt The Issue

This young lady decided to incorporate a bright pastel pink skirt into her attire. She topped off her look with a patterned silk blouse and rounded shades...

Get The Look: Save ($28.50), Spend ($79), Splurge ($1,032)

2. Make A Statement

Take a bright colored simple dress like this one and make it fancy with a statement necklace! She kept her accessories simple with black pumps and rounded classic black shades.

Get The Look: Save ($48), Spend ($183), Splurge ($428)

3. Add Texture

The lovely Patrice of Looking Fly on a Dime played up her colorful vintage frock with basket weave handbag and snakeskin pumps!

4. Blaze A Trail

So I decided to rock a hot pink blazer to the conference. One, because I was rushing out the door and it's the easiest thing to throw on. And two, because it spells professionalism with a hint of fashionably chic.

5. Mix It Up

Don't be afraid to go multi-colored! Color-blocking is still huge this season. Pick complimentary colors like royal blue and orange to play on the trend. Don't be afraid.

Sidebar: Don't these ladies have amazing hair?!

That's it for my tips! How do you rock your bright pieces? Leave your style tips below...