Color analysis is a method that discovers the color palette that best harmonizes with a person's natural features. There are six aspects of color that make a wide variety of colors: cool, warm, soft, bright, light, and dark. In color analysis, the undertone, intensity, and value of a person's features are matched with colors that share those same qualities. Through a series of steps, with accurate lighting, and carefully considered drapes, we will find which of the 18 palettes match your combination of characteristics best.
While there are a variety of color analysis systems used by other trained professionals, I have found that for me personally the 18 color palette system is the most helpful, accurate and easy to understand.
The Four Steps of Color Analysis
Step 1: Undertone
cool vs. warm
“Undertone” is a term used by color analysts to identify the skin underneath the skin's surface. Multiple pairs of colored drapes are used in order to reveal how the undertone of the skin reacts to both cool and warm colors. It is possible that during this test, the difference in the appearance of the skin could be quite apparent, or subtle, as undertone is on a spectrum.
After determining whether cool or warm colors are best, we will then look at either the Winter & Summer seasons, or the Spring & Autumn seasons in the next step.
For more information about undertone, please visit “The Science Behind It”.
Step 2: Intensity
soft vs. bright
With the focus on skin, hair, and eyes as a whole, a set of colored drapes with different intensities are used. Softer, more muted and delicate colors are placed in comparison with bright, vivid and highly saturated colors. Intensity is also on a spectrum, making it possible that the correct level of intensity could be found between the two.
After narrowing down undertone and intensity, we can confidently determine which of the four seasons is the best match. Autumn, Winter, Spring or Summer.
Step 3: Main Characteristic
cool, warm, soft, bright, light, or dark
Once a season has been selected, we will explore the various properties of colors within that season to find which of these palettes is specifically you! Each subgroup in a season is defined by its main characteristic. By comparing drapes from each subgroup, we will see which of these characteristics might be the main one, or if all subgroups work equally well, a True season could be the winner.
Note: The 18 color palette system is very similar to the 16 color palette system. 2 subgroups have been added over the years; Deep Summer (Soft Winter) and Soft Spring.
Step 4: Confirmation
After a subgroup has been carefully considered, I will conduct all necessary tests that will allow me to verify the results. Once I am confident in your analysis, I will assign you one of the 18 seasonal palettes, and you will receive your color palette fan with 42 laminated fabric swatches.
After receiving your color palette fan, I will then select 12-16 of your signature colors; the ones that really make you shine! This will also be a time to try on a few lipsticks in your palette and go over a make-up card provided for you. Lastly, we will discuss your own value contrast and color contrast as it relates to choosing outfits within your palette.