The coming of summer often gets us in the mood to break out and wear colour. This can be a daunting task, however, especially if you are not accustomed to your safe basics during the rest of the year. Disastrous colourful purchases from previous vacations, plague your mind as you contemplate a cheerful new kaftan or t-shirt, scuttling your confidence and you reach instead for black or white one. If this sounds like you, there is good news! I have written this series to help you know which shades to go for and which to avoid, will help you make fun and bold choices without the risk of looking like a fashion victim.
To help you find which would be your choice, I have written a series with four of the biggest colour directions this summer and put them into easy-to-identify colour families. For each of these you will see a description of who would best suit these colours, and who should avoid them. These are not the over-simplified and often misleading tips you usually get in fashion or beauty editorials such as “all blondes should wear X and all brunettes should wear Y”. You are unique – take a good look in the mirror noting your hair and eye colour and use this comparison to measure of whether a colour works for you or not.
Who can resist the sweet, fun and fresh appeal of those ice-creams enticingly displayed at the seaside shop? Mint, Strawberry, lemon, Mango… the mouth starts watering. Light sorbet inspired shades have been having a revival for a while now, and this is good news if you have light blonde hair! Now is your moment to look ultra-fashionable in these sweet shades. Rock it with soft white, light beige, or as a very modern head-to-toe pastel ensemble.
Silver-haired individuals, white-blondes and ash-brunettes with grey-blue eyes also look great in pale shades as long as you avoid the goldy or orange-toned shades, such as pink grapefruit and mango that clash with your “cool” appearance. Pale denim blue works a treat with these colours! The opposite is true for strawberry blondes – you look great in the warmer tones, but avoid the cool-toned pinks, and purples, such as berry smoothie and strawberry ice cream as well as icy pale denim blue.
Those who should avoid this sorbet pastel look altogether, are the dark eyed, dark haired, sultry brunettes. Wearing this colour scheme will look synthetic next to your rich colouring. There are much better options for you that are equally fashionable. If you absolutely HAVE to wear pastel, team it with dark colours such as black, navy or brown to connect your outfit back to you.
Not yet found anything for you? Read on… Brunettes, red-heads and in-between “brondes” (light brown/dark blonde) should read my following articles on the dusty pastels, bright and exotic colours. Subscribe to my blog, follow on Facebook or Instagram so that you don’t miss out when they are released!
Need more help? Sometimes we are not the best judge of ourselves. If you are feeling unsure or would like more information about which colours and clothing styles suit you, reach out to a trained expert who offers in-depth colour analysis and personal styling. I know how it changed my life many years ago as I was liberated from my monochrome black & white wardrobe and started appreciating my body type, that is why I love offering this service in person, to others as an image consultant & personal stylist.
Knowing which colours suit you and which options to choose from can save you a considerable amount of time, money and sanity! Flattering colours will make you the star of the show, instead of your outfit. Embracing your inner superstar will help you to radiate confidence wherever you go.
About the Author
Faye Hofmann is qualified in Fashion Design and Colour Analysis and has worked as fashion designer, trends consultant and personal stylist. Since she started in the fashion world 20 years ago, she has had much experience translating fashion trends into successful styles for large corporate retailers, boutiques and individuals. Currently operating out of central Switzerland, one of her of her greatest joys is using her expertise to help others look and feel their best. Her online and in-person services include colour analysis, style and personal shopping. To learn more about what colour & style can do for you, visit www. fayehofmann.com