The Design Block
If you're looking for the latest in advertising and marketing, design related technology and lifestyle tips, and art or design highlights then you're in the right place. Find all this and more with the Design Block blog.
Elevate your ink: Exploring Asian-inspired vertical tattoos
EQ designs vibrant tattoos where elements seem to burst forth from rectangular frames.
Creative facial hair from the 2023 National Beard & Moustache Championships
This year's championships saw everything from the well-groomed facial hair to outlandish and artistic creations.
Researchers develop an ‘e-fabric’ capable of generating power
Researchers at Nottingham Trent University have developed a new 'e-fabric' capable of generating energy.
Artists create elaborate baroque-inspired wigs made of paper
This talented duo works with paper to create eccentric headpieces, masks, and other wearable sculptures.
Elegant zero-waste bottles made from soap
Since only 1 in 5 people consistently recycle items from their bathroom, these bottles are a sustainable solution.
This colour-reflecting survival jacket is made of 2 billion glass spheres
Mimicking the adaptive skin of a squid, this jacket can reflect colours when exposed to light.
These Converse shoes start changing colours in sunlight
The UV-activated sneakers have the same classic Chuck Taylor All-Star design you'll recognize.
Handcrafted beach jewellery made from sand and resin
Using real beach sand and blue resin, each piece looks like a tiny, wearable beach that wearers can take with them.
KFC Russia introduces a fried chicken bucket hat
If you ever wished you could wear a KFC bucket on your head, now you can with KFC Russia's bucket hat.
Revisit the 80s with Nike’s Stranger Things collection
Nike has looked back into its archives to create a collection of clothing and sneakers based on Stranger Things.
Pop culture-inspired lip art are amazing masterpieces
The immense talent of Ryan Kelly's lip art takes make-up to a whole new level.
Adidas announces first 100% recyclable running shoe
The Futurecraft.Loop is Adidas' first shoe that can be completely remade into another high-performance shoe.
Embroidery tattoos look like they’re stitched into skin
Tattoos and embroidery, when combined, make for eye-catching 3D ink that doesn't involve a needle and thread.
Dunkin’ and Saucony reunite for donut-inspired sneakers
Saucony has teamed up with Dunkin’ for co-branded sneakers that looks so good you'll want to eat them.
Nike focuses on sustainable footwear for summer 2019
Today may be the first day of spring, but thoughts of summer are already on the horizon for Nike as they preview their sustainable footwear.
McDonald’s plans to retail its own version of Balenciaga’s fries shoes
First it was a New York souvenir company that went after Balenciaga for copying a touristy tote, now it is McDonald's turn.
Don’t like tying your laces? Check out Nike’s self-lacing basketball shoes
Nike's Adapt BB are an auto-lacing, app-controlled basketball shoe that's loaded technological advancements.
Pantone unveils 2019 Spring/Summer fashion trend report
Every year the team at the Pantone Color Institute comes out with its fashion trend report; an overview of the top colours showcased by fashion designers at New York Fashion Week that’ll be featuring in their collections for the upcoming season.
For the love of colour: Now you can put on Pantone socks
Aside from keeping you up-to-date on the latest colour trends and foods inspired by various hues, Pantone has started producing fashion.
Lingerie campaign celebrates models of all sizes and bans airbrushing
UK-based lingerie brand Figleaves has released its latest campaign that includes a cast models of different sizes, shapes and ethnicities. What also makes this campaign special is that Figleaves is the latest brand to ban airbrushing in their ads.
Nike issues comeback after French Open bans Serena Williams’ catsuit
Officials at the French Open have announced they will ban Serena Williams’ signature black catsuit from future tournaments.
People seem to love the new butt-baring pants that are basically assless chaps
Just when you thought you’d seen the quirkiest fashion trends, like Car Mat Skirts or crotch accentuating pants, people seem to be loving the latest must-have butt-baring item.
Tiny 3-inch Chanel ankle bag comes at a not-very-teeny price of US$900
A tiny Chanel bag that made its debut over a decade ago has recently caught social media users off balance. Model and reality star Kendall Jenner posted an Instagram Story showing off the Chanel ankle bag to her followers with the caption, “It only fits joy.”
Puma’s Japanese-style embroidered sneakers pay homage to the Kimono
If you’re a fan of Japanese arts and culture, PUMA‘s new embroidered sneakers are perfect for those who want to add a bit of edge to their look.
Japanese fashion brand creates crotch accentuating pants
Last year say an exorbitant number of strange fashion trends, but this one is probably the weirdest so far for 2018. Former Louis Vuitton designer Kim Jones just dropped a new collaboration with GU, a budget-minded branch of Uniqlo in Japan. And it has people baffled…
Colour outside the lines with Crayola Beauty makeup
If you thought Crayola crayons were just for kids, you wouldn’t be correct. Children’s crayons have long been an inspiration for makeup brands, and today Crayola is releasing it’s own line of makeup aimed at adults.
Handcrafted fairytale dresses designed by Sylvie Facon
Inspired by nature, fairytales and women’s figure, French designer Sylvie Facon aspires to design dresses that are very feminine, refined, and meticulous. She sews dresses with beautiful fabrics and such an incredible attention to detail that they would steal any catwalk.
A look back at 7 of the oddest fashion trends of 2017
If there’s one thing regarding fashion trends that we can always rely on, is their ability to surprise us. On the one hand, there are some styles that are pretty much timeless; pieces you can put on and know you’ll always look good. However, at times, it…
Nature-inspired embroidery that appears to be floating
Embroidery is delicate work. But when you’re skillfully hand-stitching, it’s taken to the next level. And that’s especially true when working on net-like tulle fabric. It’s more delicate than your traditional cotton—making it less forgiving than other fabrics. However, when done well, the effect is mesmerizing.
Nike’s Air Huarache Ultra inspired by the Colour Of The Year
After PANTONE reveals its Colour of the Year, comes designers’ take on the trend. This year’s colour was Ultra Violet, representing “originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.
Festive nail art inspired by the ugly sweater trend
There are plenty of ways to show off your holiday spirit, like Christmas beard baubles; but nothing says festive quite like ugly sweater inspired nail art. This viral DIY beauty trend will really get you into the holiday spirit.
Candy cane eyeliner: The newest Christmas makeup trend
The holidays are quickly approaching, so it’s time to start planning your festive-wear. If you’re looking to stand out at your Christmas party from all of the ugly sweaters, how about giving this festive candy cane eyeliner a go.
Retailer sells US$900 dress that looks like a dry cleaning bag
Lately, retailers have been trying to push their designer fashion, which looks like expensive versions of cheaper items, upon us; much like Prada’s US$185 money clip that looks like a paper clip or Balenciaga’s IKEA-inspired blue tote.
Tattoo Socks allow you to flaunt cool designs without getting inked
For most around the world, tattoos are a form of expression. For some it’s a rite of adulthood, tribal identity, artistic or beauty purposes, and so on. However, for those who are in it for style and beauty but aren’t looking for permanence, you may…
Design studio tries to reinvents the zipper
We use it in out everyday lives and probably don’t give it much thought. The zipper is used in clothing, luggage and other bags, sporting goods, camping gear, and other items. The design hasn’t changed much in the last hundred years, but one design company is looking to change that.
A unique watch made of lightweight and durable concrete
Concrete may seem an unlikely design material when talking about consumer goods, but the Masonic aims to change this perception. This debut watch from Aggregate Watches is the first to utilize a traditionally industrial material in a refined way.
Zodiac inspired tattoos to reflect your personality
When it comes to commitment, getting a tattoo is near the top. Therefore, if you get one, you’ll want to feel good about it and what it represents about you. For those who are guided by astrology, but aren’t sure which design to get, you may want to…
Best of the 2017 World Beard & Moustache Championship
Quite possibly the best thing to happen to facial hair is the World Beard and Moustache Championship. For more than 25 years, the semi-annual competition has turned growing and grooming into a high-class art form.
Makeup artist uses optical illusions to create amazing effects
Makeup can be transformational; if done right it can turn one thing into something completely different. For example, the mind-bending effects from Vancouver makeup artist Mimi Choi has proven she is the queen of optical illusion makeup.
Adidas beer and vomit-proof shoes for Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest, originally a Bavarian event, is now celebrated the world over; being loved for its endless flow of German beer, traditional food, and all-around good times. So, if you’re looking for the perfect shoes to match your lederhosen at Oktoberfest, Adidas has the pair for you.
Prada retails a single paperclip for $185US
Prada is selling a $185US money clip that looks like a paperclip. Yes, it’s literally just a fancy version of a paperclip that’s probably on your desk. Barney’s New York has just retailed a sterling silver Prada clip, and it’s the latest item to join the list of things…
NakeFit stick-on soles let you go barefoot
A barefoot stroll on the beach is one of the life’s simple pleasures; unless the sand is scorching hot. To get people out of their flip flops, an Italian company believes they have the perfect solution: stick-on soles.
You can buy this bikini made from real pizza for $10,000
Whether it’s to celebrate a victory or a quick way to feed the family, pizza is an incredibly popular food; especially in Canada. But why eat your pizza when you can wear it? To celebrate National Bikini Day today, restaurant chain Villa Italian Kitchen has partnered New York-Based food stylist Jessie Bearden to create…
Danish fashion label RAINS sues Zara for copying its raincoat design
Zara has a reputation for taking runway designs and making affordable versions for everyday consumers. However, they’ve taken a lot of heat in the last few months, starting with their Love Your Curves ad, and now this: Danish outerwear label RAINS recently announced it is filing…
Metallic freckles are this summer’s hot new beauty trend
For many beauty enthusiasts, the sun’s arrival this summer will be accompanied by the appearance of a modicum of beautiful freckles. And while beauty trends involving freckles aren’t new, these tiny skin spots are set to take on new life as dramatic beauty marks.
Marble lips are the latest beauty trend to captivate social media
This trend involving marble doesn't have anything to do with home renovation, but your lips.
Artist creates stunning watercolour temporary tattoos
Based in St. Petersburg, Sasha Unisex is an interesting temporary tattoo artist, whose technique and style is so unique and distinctive that it immediately grabs your attention. She is well-known for her distinct and contemporary approach to the art of tattooing; with her minimalist design, geometric shapes and…
McDonald’s dull new uniforms inspire online teasing
Last month, McDonald’s unveiled new uniforms for its U.S. locations in 2017. And with that release, the new uniforms are prompting some online teasing; with comments saying the grey-toned shirts and aprons make employees look like they’re part of totalitarian regimes.
Spring’s new hairstyle trend is the colourful Unicorn Hair
Now that spring is finally here, people are starting to get out of the winter blues and into colourful feel-good design styles. If the hidden rainbow hairstyle wasn’t your thing, perhaps this Unicorn Hair trend will be right up your alley.
Zara’s ‘Love Your Curves’ ad draws harsh criticism and humorous responses
You should always be weary of what you say or post online—especially on Twitter. Clothing brand Zara certainly learned that after posting an ad showing two models with the tagline, “Love your curves.”