If youre nodding along as you read this, you may want to try color analysis.
At a Glance
Color analysis has been a staple for stylists and makeup artists for decades.
What Does Color Analysis Do?
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Choosing the right colors can enhance your overall appearance by making your natural features pop, adds Bibeau.
How Does Color Analysis Work?
Color analysis and color theory are deeply intertwined.
Determining Your Undertone
Assessing skin undertone is the first step in color analysis.
Understanding your skin undertone can help you choose the best color palettes that play up your complexion.
Color analysis and color theory are deeply intertwined.
An easy way to figure out your undertone is to check how your skin reacts to sun exposure.
If you tend to burn easily, you are most likely a cooler undertone.
If you burn then tan, you likely have a neutral undertone.
And if you just tan easily, you are most likely a warmer undertone, suggests Kassajikian.
Identifying Your Color Season
Seasonal color analysis is the most widely recognized among all color analysis techniques.
To determine your color season, Fonseca suggests testing different color swatches next to your face under natural light.
Assessing Contrast Levels
Contrast can be a powerful tool to achieve balance.
High contrast pops up if theres a big difference between the lightest and darkest values, says Fonseca.
For example, fair skin, deep blue eyes, and dark hair.
Research shows that improving physical attractiveness leads to better interpersonal interactions and a corresponding boost inself-esteem.
One study suggests how you dress not only reflects but also affects yourmood.
Thus,wearing colors that make you look and feel goodmay positively impact your mood.
Still, they can be a good option if you only want to dip your toes in the trend.
Does it make your complexion look vibrant or washed out?
Does it make your eyes look bright or flat?
Choose outfits with undertones similar to your skin for a flattering ensemble.
If a color creates shadows or reflections on your face, it likely doesnt complement your complexion.
For accessorizing, those with warm undertones cant go wrong with yellow gold or rose gold.
Silver, platinum, and white gold complement cool undertones.
Meanwhile, those with neutral undertones can experiment with both silver and gold accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your color season can change throughout the year, says Bibeau.
For example, blues and greens infuse a sense of calm, making them perfect for bedrooms.
Meanwhile, earthy hues and dark-toned throws are great for a cozy autumn-themed space.
Moreover, a lack of standard training and approach often means variations in interpretations and results.
Theres a lot we still dont know, saysDr.
Ray W. Christner, PsyD, NCSP, ABPP.
Were also uncovering the limitations and gaps in our knowledge, he adds.
Michele Leno, PhD, LP.
These colors may not always align with our prescribed palettes.
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology.Color Theory.
Patzer GL.Improving self-esteem by improving physical attractiveness.Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry9,1 (1997).
University of Hertfordshire.Happiness: its not in the jeans.
doi:10.5465/amj.2021.1358
New Mexico State University.Determining Personal Colors.
