The Style Files : Cobalt Crush 

When two of the biggest fashion icons on the planet with incredibly varied style aesthetics wear the same, on the fashion radar, colour within days of each other you know that it’s going to be "the" colour for summer. Cobalt blue is one of those trends (and by “one of those trends” I mean “all trends”) that come back around every few years, this summer is yet another season of that spectacular blue. 

Kate Middleton and Beyonce who are both known to sell out anything they wear, often crashing websites with fans desperately trying to get ahold of the outfit, were both pictured in this striking hue last week putting it firmly on the fashion radar. 

(Image courtesy Charles & Keith) 

Cobalt blue is both wearable and striking, (I speak from experience) – the ideal shade to brighten up any wardrobe. Chase the blues away with this seasons happy shade of blue. The dynamic colour is the perfect way to breathe new life into your day-to-day wardrobe , whether it’s worn in a monochromatic way, with the season’s palette of red, gold, emerald green or teamed with matching prints or paired cobalt blue is ruling. 

(Images courtesy Fashion Market.lk) 

It’s a bolder shade of navy—still chic yet a bit more playful. Cobalt can also brighten up the traditional navy blue. It is an especially nice anchor for some of the brighter or deeper colours it’s anything but boring and also very versatile. Bright cobalt is a good transitional colour. It’s stunning with black and gray. Think about it with some of your other neutrals, those tans and the nude tones that will get a good, strong contrast. And you can soften yellow and orange with any shade of blue. 

(Image courtesy Mango) 

Opt for a textured piece for modern take on the trend, think quilting or pleats  or choose a style with detailing, from a knot, sculptured silhouette to a ruffle to keep it on-trend. If you’re not sure about wearing full-on bright cobalt, start small with a bangle, belt or footwear. Just a touch with a handbag will look chic against an all-black ensemble. Best of all, bright cobalt blue flatters almost all complexions. 

Text by Minoli Ratnayake