When you think of the color block trend, the 80s and early 90s come to mind. My mom had a black, lime green & fuchsia colorblock dress and it was pretty fab. Fast forward a few decades and colorblock is back in style. As evidenced by the Spring 2011 runways, bright, color blocked pieces are one of the top trends for spring/summer 2011.

Spring 2011: Marc Jacobs, Etro, Gucci, Diane von Furstenberg, Aquilano.Rimondi

To get the color block effect, you can buy pieces that are already colorblocked or you can improvise. For the DIY color-block effect, go through your closets or buy solid color pieces that can be mixed and matched. If a color block outfit isn’t your cup of tea, experiment with color blocking in your accessories. A color blocked bag or pair of shoes will add a je ne sais quoi to your look.

While brights are the most popular color blocking option, color block is not limited to bright hues. This season, there is a large selection of color blocked clothes and accessories in neutral, muted tones.

Dabble in the color block trend with these clothes, shoes and bags!

(clockwise from left) Marc by Marc Jacobs Color-Block Silk Crepe Dress, $598 (Nordstrom); Cooperative Tie-Back Top, $49 (Urban Outfitters); Colorblock Bodycon Dress, $15.80 (Forever 21); Marc by Marc Jacobs Splashed Colorblock Jersey Tank, $128 (Shopbop); Belted Paperbag Waist Skirt, $70 (Topshop); Cooperative Colorblock Short, $54 (Urban Outfitters); Morgan Low-Rise Skinny Jeans, $9.99 (Delias); Colorblock Stripe Skirt, $7.80 (Forever 21)

(clockwise from center) Jessica Simpson “Bendie” Platform Sandals, $98 (FlyJane); Sam Edelman “Westbrook” Wedge, $209 (Boutiquetoyou); Jessica Simpson “Vadio” Platform Pumps, $98 (Amazon); KG by Jurt Geiger “Carrington” Patent Platforms, $197.23 (ASOS); Iveans Wedge Sandals, $90 (ALDO);

Boxy Flat Lock Clutch, $35.86 (ASOS); Modern Cargo Checkbook Clutch, $55 (Fossil); Rebecca Minkoff Colorblock “Bombe Mac” Clutch, $330 (Bloomingdales); Peter Jensen Red Front “Angela” Bag, $374.74 (ASOS)