How To Master The Art Of Colour Matching

Learning how to style and dress yourself in a way that flatters your body shape but is still comfortable is a skill that many women don’t gain until they are a lot older.

Colour matching is one of the cornerstones of looking put-together and confident. But what exactly is colour matching, and how can you use it in your wardrobe? Read on to find out more.

Understanding the colour wheel: The foundation of colour matching

Before you can start to implement colour theory, you need to understand the colour wheel. The basics are made up the three primary colours: red, blue and yellow. When you mix these in different combinations, you get the secondary colours of green, orange and purple.

Colours which are opposite each other on the wheel are known as complementary. Yellow and purple fall into this category and create a striking visual if you were to pair them in an outfit.

The role of neutrals: Balancing and enhancing your wardrobe

If you aren’t quite ready to dive into bright colours, then neutrals are your friend. Blacks, whites, greys and beiges all serve as versatile bases in your outfits.

Once you have your base outfit sorted, you can add vibrant colours as pops of colour. If you are nervous, start small with jewellery, shoes or belts. You can then work your way up to a brighter blouse or pair of trousers.

Seasonal colour palettes: Adapting your wardrobe throughout the year

Different seasons suit different colours better, so you’ll need to be adaptable. If you love the colour purple, for example, there are darker and lighter tones which work for different seasons. It may seem cliché, but pastel lilacs and lavenders are perfect for spring whereas winter is better suited for plums and grapes.

Shopping for special events, such as a wedding, can be seasonally dependent too. Buying the perfect wedding guest dresses is an investment, but blending the dress code with appropriate colours means you will look and feel amazing. 

Considering skin tone: choosing colours that flatter

Your skin tone has a lot to do with how different colours appear on you. Some colours will wash you out, whereas others will help you to shine.

First, identify your skin’s undertone. The easiest way to do this is to hold a white piece of paper to your makeup-free skin under natural light. This will help you to see the subtle pigments in your skin.

If you notice yellows or greens, then you have a warm undertone. Warm skin tones should opt for rich tones which share the same golden quality as your skin. For neutral tones, off-whites, camel and chocolate will all look stunning.

Blue, rose or pink indicates a cool undertone. If this sounds like you, then select colours with blue undertones. Traditionally cool colours such as sapphire, cobalt blue and lavender are always winners, but you can also pick up clothes in navy or crisp white.

Greys or ashen undertones are considered neutral undertones. People in this spectrum have the benefit of suiting most colours and shades, but tend to shine in colours in the middle. Dusky rose, peach, light greens and jade all look beautiful.

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