A Cool Summer? Of course it is...

Whatever is a Cool Summer?

Summer is always COOL, always Light and always Muted (or Soft).

'Different' methods of Color Analysis are always popping up but I've never paid them much attention. Both the Tonal and Seasonal methods work perfectly well and complement each other.

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. Let me explain...

Cool Summer - you may be diluting your color palette #cool summer #color analysis https://www.style-yourself-confident.com/cool-summer.html

A true SUMMER color palette...

SUMMER, for example, is made up of 3 color characteristics - COOL, LIGHT and MUTED (Soft).

So if you are SUMMER you are always COOL, always LIGHT and always SOFT - these 3 characteristics have to be present to actually determine you as a Summer.

Your natural coloring is gentle and softly blended, no harsh or brash colors and you have low contrast between the coloring of your features.

The SUMMER palette from Kettlewell Colours

OK so what is a Cool Summer?

As a Cool Summer you are directed and limited to the coolest colors within the SUMMER color palette.

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're not a TRUE SUMMER - so you've got to be something else!

Summer is always Cool, always Light and always Soft. #soft summer #summer coloring #color analysis https://www.style-yourself-confident.com/cool-summer.html

So you've got a COOL undertone...

If you're being determined a Cool Summer and being directed towards the Coolest colors in the Summer palette, then you obviously have a Cool undertone to your skin. If COOL is that obvious in your color direction then it probably means that COOL is your primary characteristic.

Rather than having a limited array of colors you could probably be enjoying the whole spectrum of the COOL color family.

Cool fabric swatch #color analysis #color swatch #Cool color family https://www.style-yourself-confident.com/color-analysis-swatch.html

Your Cool undertone gives you a pink tone to your skin and a coolness to your eyes and hair. Each of the colors in the COOL color family have the same blue undertone as your own and will complement your natural coloring - creating harmony.

This beautiful color palette will give you a wide mix of the very best shades with which to experiment, play with and enjoy!

Whether Seasonal or Tonal you need choice...

Why are some people still nervous about Color Analysis? Probably because they think their color choice is going to be severely limited. And this kind of Analysis does just that.

When I was first introduced to Color Analysis I felt very 'put out' when I was given a small swatch and told what I 'could' and 'couldn't' wear by a very dogmatic consultant. 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.

Color Analysis should give you the widest possible choice of shades that will harmonize with and enhance your natural coloring. Your best colors should be pointed out but if some colors are new you should be encouraged to experiment. Our choice is usually influenced by mood and occasion anyway.

If your color direction is correct you will see many familiar and favorite shades and your own instincts are reinforced. Color is a fabulous medium, it's here to be enjoyed and it's FUN!

and if you really are a True SUMMER then don't dilute it!

A True Summer color swatch should include shades of every color - reds, blues, greens, yellows, purples, greys, beige, browns. Each one has elements of the Cool, Light and Muted characteristics that complement your natural coloring.

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.

Although they are all Cool, you'll choose your brightest or quietest tones 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. However, once this color mix is diluted you're severely restricted.