Navigating Color Theory - Finding Your Color Palette
Color theory is kind of a beast, and it has a pretty strong reputation.
When I say color theory, I'm sure those viral videos of color theory experts spring to mind. There are always a million comments under those videos saying, "Help, I don't see the difference!"
We're here to help.
Color analysis doesn't have to be intimidating, expensive, or daunting.
With this guide, I hope to make finding your palette fun. Dressing to flatter your complexion and coloring can be such an empowering process if you lean in. Let's get you started!
Step 1 - Check your Veins First to Find your Color Palette
We've discussed this before on our blog, but the first thing to check when finding your colors is your veins.
Yep, you heard that right!
Look at your wrist. Are your veins blue or yellowish green? Are they a mix of both?
Blue veins mean you're cool-toned (see below)
You'll look best in icy and deep primary colors. Think of colors that are crisp and clear, that remind you of winter. This doesn't limit you to only blue and grey, there are cool tones of almost every color in the rainbow!
Yellowish green veins mean you're warm-toned. (see below)
This means you'll look best in sunny colors that remind you of heat. Think yellows, oranges, and reds, like a beautiful sunset!
If you have a combination of the two colors in your veins, which is relatively rare, that means you're neutral.
Your complexion will light up in both palettes. Lucky!
Step 2 - Narrowing Down Your Color Tones
Now that you know your undertone, you've gotten through half the battle.
Next, you want to go through your closet and pull the pieces that make you feel the hottest.
Ask yourself these questions:
Do they share color characteristics?
Are they all different shades of a similar color?
Is there a noticeable absence of a primary color?
Sometimes what isn't in our daily rotation can tell us a lot about our wardrobe preferences.
If the pieces you wear most are completely lacking in yellow or orange, that might mean you're cool-toned. Same goes for if there isn't much blue or green- you might be warm-toned.
Your subconscious knows what looks good on you, so trust your instincts!
Step 3 - Experiment with your color palette
At this point in the process, you should have a stronger sense of what flatters you than you did before.
Now, this is where the fun really begins.
You've done the harder work of examining your wardrobe, now it's time to take it out on the town. Pay super close attention to which pieces get you the most compliments, and what you feel best in.
What you're reaching for every day says everything:
That feeling when you slide on that favorite shirt and it lights up your face is what we're chasing here.
You can only figure this out through training your eye and through trial and error.
Give yourself time, and keep it in mind when you're shopping for new pieces.
Need some help finding your colors and matching pieces together to flatter your complexion? We'll help you master your style.
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Examples of Color Palette Theory Done Right
If you still need convincing, here are a few looks that really flatter the wearer.
Cool-toned queen Lupita Nyong'o wears blue constantly. It's no mystery why that Oscar's dress of hers went so viral and is one of her most well-remembered looks. It highlights her features perfectly!
Jessica Alba is a great celeb example for warm-toned girlies.
Her complexion is golden and sunny, so yellows, oranges, and even this warm olive green suit look stunning on her.
Color theory doesn’t have to feel like an intimidating art school final—you just need the right tools and a little curiosity. With this guide, you're already one step closer to building a wardrobe that lights you up from the inside out.
