Whatever is a Clear Winter?

So what actually is a CLEAR WINTER because Winter is always Clear (Bright), always Deep and always Cool.

'Different' methods of Color Analysis are always popping up but I never pay them a great deal of attention because I have to say 'each to his own'. The Tonal and Seasonal methods work brilliant well together and are perfectly complementary.

Some Color Analysis' just cause confusion...

After all the hype, every method comes down to the same straight-forward idea of connecting or matching color characteristics with your own natural characteristics.  

When you surround yourself with colors that echo your own natural coloring then you create balance. Simple!

But some methods of Color Analysis do nothing but create confusion. I've even had some people tell me they are a 'Warm Winter' - impossible! Let me explain...

OK so you're a CLEAR WINTER

As WINTER is always CLEAR DEEP and COOL, if you are determined CLEAR WINTER you are only part of the Season with a diluted color palette.

You are limited to the clearest/brightest tones within WINTER and missing out on many others that bring harmony.   

With a restricted range of colors the shades become so specific that it's extremely difficult to recognize them and almost impossible to shop because your choice is so limited.

You could be missing out on a much wider range of colors! 

You're actually more likely to be either
CLEAR/Bright or WINTER! 

If you're CLEAR (or Bright)

If you've been determined Clear Winter then the CLEAR or BRIGHT part of Winter is considerably more relevant to you than the Deep or the Cool elements.

You probably didn't fit easily into the Seasons; it may have been difficult deciding between Spring and Winter because both have elements of CLEAR/BRIGHT. 

Then you may fit more easily into the CLEAR/BRIGHT Color Family which includes the clearest shades from both Spring and Winter.  

The CLEAR/BRIGHT palette does not consist of garish bright colors, just that all the colors have a CLARITY with little to no undertone. Your skin tone is probably closer to Neutral, not too Warm, not too Cool. Black, white, true greys, all are CLEAR colors - they are true classics! 

or if you're true WINTER

WINTER is a glorious mix of three color characteristics, it's always CLEAR/BRIGHT always DEEP and always COOL. 

This color mix will complement your strong and dramatic coloring which creates a high contrast between your features.

You feel wrong in light or soft shades and, although CLEAR is very important, the Deep and Cool elements are also needed to bring this beautiful color palette to life.

Pure drama: deep tones and icy lights, highs and lows, sharp yet strong. 

Whichever you are don't dilute your colors!

Whatever color palette you're given it should include shades of every color - reds, blues, greens, yellows, purples, greys, beige, browns. Each one has elements of the color characteristics that complement your natural coloring and you need them all to look your best!

You'll have your favorites, some will look better than others. Season to season you'll be influenced by fashion and your tastes will develop and change.  

You'll choose your light or slightly stronger shades according to mood and occasion; professional, conservative, holiday time etc. but as long as you're within your color direction you really can't go wrong.

Don't dilute it, just enjoy!

Don't think that any SEASONAL swatch is just for the specific season, it will work for you year-round! 

Don't dilute any color palette - just enjoy it!

Whether Tonal or Seasonal you need choice

Some people are still nervous about Color Analysis because they think their color choice is going to be severely limited. Breaking up the Seasons does just that.

When I was first came across Color Analysis I was given a small swatch and told what I 'could' and 'couldn't' wear! Probably like you, I don't like being 'told' what to do.

Only you know what makes you feel good and what you need is choice.You need the widest possible choice of colors that make you look good and if some colors are new it's great to experiment. Choice is usually influenced by mood and occasion anyway.

If you've been correctly analyzed you will see familiar and favorite shades, you will feel comfortable! Color is a fabulous medium, it's here to be enjoyed and it's FUN!