Colours for colouring

by on 25/08/10 at 1:18 pm

Louise cardi in magenta by Frank & Faith

In the middle of the 20th century German artist Hans Hoffman stated ‘It is not the form which dictates the colour, but the colour which brings out the form.’

When Hans originally made this statement, he was referring to his art work, but it’s a quote that can be applied to fashion, for what is fashion if not art?

The power of colour within the fashion industry is frequently under-estimated. Often fashion reviewers focus on the cut of the cloth or the fabric as opposed to the very thing that stares us in the face – the colour.

Fashion trends may come and go, your figure will constantly change, but your complexion and the colours that suit you are likely to stay the same.

To have a flattering pared down, versatile and lasting wardrobe it really helps to understand which colours suit you. Use this simple guide to determine the season that most defines your colouring so you can discover your definitive colour pallete.

WINTER COMPLEXIONS

People with winter colourings are often known for having depth and intensity to their complexions. Their skin has cool blue/pink undertones and may be porcelain or with an olive hue which greatly contrasts their dark hair colour and the bright colour of their eyes.

‘Cool colourings’ should stay away from pastel colours, instead opting for clothes with more depth and intensity. This Folklore camisole top available from peopletree.com (£15), the Louise Cardigan from frankandfaith.com ( £47) and the teal Kelly dress from puritystyle.co.uk (£34) are perfect for complimenting winter complexions.

DO WEAR: Colours with intensity like navy blue, bright red, royal purples, jet black and hot pinks and teal.

COLOURS TO AVOID: Beige, orange, gold and other earthy colours as these subdue the complexion.

SUMMER COMPLEXIONS

Like people with winter complexions, those with summer colourings have a cool undertone to their skin. But unlike winter, there is a low level of contrast between hair colour, eye colour and skin tone. People with such complexions often have pale peachy skin tones with blonde hair and brown eyes, or on occasion, very dark complexions.

Women with summer colourings often look best in neutral colours. This Baby Pink Brittania tunic (£35), from ethicsgirls.co.uk is a wonderful choice as is this White outsider shirt dress (£85) available from responsiblygorgeous.co.uk.

DO WEAR: Softer shades of neutral such as baby blue, pastels, yellow and dusty pink.

COLOURS TO AVOID: Intense colours such as bright reds, navys and earthy tones such as beige.

AUTUMN COMPLEXIONS

The most striking thing about those with autumn colourings is the warmth of their complexions. With skin that has peachy golden undertones, redheads and brunettes with hazel eyes and bronzed skin, often fall into this category.

Try this orange Quinn Bamboo drape T-shirt (£33 from ethicsgirls.co.uk) and Grey Mindy turtle neck dress (£40), and  the Gita wrap dress from puritystyle.co.uk (£25), which can be worn over a pair of leggings or thick tights during the day, or glammed up with jewellery and heels for a sophisticated evening out with friends.

DO WEAR: Colours with a warm undertone, beige, orange and  greys as well as earthly colours such as camel and olive.

COLOURS TO AVOID: Bright colours, extreme colours (such as black and white) or pastels as these will make the skin look cold and tired.

SPRING COMPLEXIONS

It can be difficult to distinguish between a spring complexion and an autumn complexion, as the two carry many similar traits. Like those with autumn colouring, the skin of the springtime complexion often has golden peachy undertones but there is more frequently the presence of freckles and coloured eyes in someone with Spring colouring. Red heads with freckles and blue or grey eyes frequently fit into this category.

If this sounds like you, then take a look at the Green V Tee (£10) available from ethicsgirls.co.uk and this lovely light blue Daisy gathered dress from peopletree.co.uk.

DO WEAR: Soft colours such as peach, ivory, golden yellow and aqua, as well as warm/earthy colours such as true reds, copper and emerald green as well as light blues.

COLOURS TO AVOID: Pastels which drain colour from the skin.

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