How do you know what color looks best on you?
Do you have a rainbow of colors in your closet? We love to see our clients using and exploring color, but having every color in your closet probably means you have not discovered what is most flattering on you. Some days you look in the mirror and your cheeks are rosy and your eyes are bright --other times it seems you have no color or sparkle to your eyes or complexion. Odds are this dramatic difference is a reflection of the color you chose to wear near your face that day. The right color will enhance your natural complexion and make your skin glow and your eyes shimmer. Skip the makeup and simply choose your best colors!
Understand Your Best Colors
Understanding your best colors also helps you build a comprehensive capsule wardrobe that works together. Each ‘season’ includes Homebase Colors that are your main colors, and Contrast Colors that mix well with your Homebase Colors as well as a group of Neutrals. These all make it easy to expand your wardrobe while keeping it defined, workable and endlessly mixable.
Understanding color also helps you avoid costly mistakes with individual pieces. I recently had a client try to convince me that she should buy a stunning leather jacket at a great price. She was sure she could “make it work”. The problem? The color was beautiful to look at, but completely washed her out. “I’ll wear a scarf!” But the scarf covered the beautiful neckline. More makeup? Do you really want to apply lipstick every time you throw on your leather jacket? A crush is rarely love — let it go and invest in a long term relationship with the perfect leather jacket.
Determine Your Color Palette
Determining your color palette without help can be tricky — you need natural light, a clean, clear face with no makeup and a keen eye. The original version of draping fabrics and observing skin tone changes is still very effective but it can be hard to be objective. You can start by observing the colors that you know make you shine and work from these into other color families and shades. Our team has experience and training to see these subtle changes easily and quickly and part of every client’s Style ID includes determining your colors.
Color brings depth and interest to any outfit. While black and white are tempting for their timelessness and versatility, they are extremes on the color wheel and can be harsh on the skin. Consider other neutrals like charcoal, soft black, navy, deep brown and cream for a softer more flattering option. And remember, if you love a color that isn’t in your palette try it in a different shade of the same color family or incorporate the color away from the face or in accessories.
Understanding your colors makes dressing infinitely easier and more creative — so grab YOUR colors and go for it!
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2020 and has been updated with the latest science and trends.