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...

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.

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!

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.