As we navigate through life’s various stages, our sense of style evolves, but what about the colours we wear? A prominent colour analyst, Michelle Marks from House of Colour, sheds light on how our colour preferences can shift over time, debunking the myth that age dictates our palette. According to Marks, the key to styling effectively at any age lies not in the colours themselves, but in our growing understanding of how to pair them.
Age Is Just a Number in Colour Analysis
In recent years, colour analysis has surged in popularity, particularly among young adults seeking to define their personal style. However, many wonder if this practice changes as we age. Marks firmly believes that age is inconsequential in this context. “It doesn’t matter what age you do it,” she states confidently. “You just get better at putting colours together and knowing what suits you.”
So, how does this affect your personal palette? Marks explains that while the colours you gravitate towards might vary as your skin ages, your fundamental colour palette remains constant. “Your palette will never change with age,” she insists. “You may wear different colours as your skin becomes thinner, but you’ll always have the same palette that complements your hair, whether it turns grey or white.”
The Mechanics of Colour Analysis
The process of colour analysis begins with a simple yet crucial question: Are you warm or cool-toned? Marks guides clients through this initial step, determining whether they fit into the warm categories of autumn and spring or the cool categories of winter and summer.
Once established, the next phase involves assessing contrast. For instance, winter colours are characterised by their bright and sharp appearance, while summer tones are softer and more blended. “You could be cool and sharp, or you could be cool and soft,” she explains. This nuanced understanding allows individuals to identify which shades enhance their natural beauty.
The analysis is highly visual. Fabrics are draped under the face, revealing how different shades interact with one’s complexion. “It can be confronting to see colours you love moved to your no-go pile,” Marks admits, recalling her own experience of being classified as a winter. “But seeing the change is what makes it worthwhile.”
Timing: When to Reassess Your Palette
Many people assume there’s an ideal moment for colour analysis, often linking it to significant life changes or the onset of grey hair. Marks, however, dismisses these notions. “It makes no difference,” she stresses. “You’ll age in the same palette.” The joy of colour analysis, she continues, is that you refine your skills in selecting and combining shades as you grow older.
Interestingly, Marks notes that individuals in their sixties don’t need a different seasonal classification than those in their twenties. They may simply choose to explore softer shades or more vibrant hues depending on their current hair colour and personal style.
Striking vs. Harmonious: Finding Your Balance
Many clients come in believing that a dramatic look is synonymous with being stylish. Marks points out the difference between something that stands out and what truly complements an individual. “When people dye their hair in unconventional colours, it can be striking, but it doesn’t always harmonise with their features,” she explains.
As we age, the distinction between striking and harmonious becomes more pronounced. Colour analysis helps individuals steer clear of trends that may not suit them and instead focus on appearing refreshed and authentic. Every colour has a place, but its suitability varies from person to person.
Even neutrals carry different implications for different individuals. The subtleties between an optic white and a warm cream can dramatically alter one’s appearance. Marks emphasises the importance of these distinctions, noting that wearing the wrong neutral can have a major impact on how one is perceived.
Embracing Colour at Any Age
Once a seasonal category is established, colours are organised by their impact: some can be worn head to toe, while others serve as supporting shades or should be used sparingly. Marks encourages her clients to move away from ageist notions that suggest wearing muted tones as one grows older.
“In a culture that often dictates wearing beige with age, colour analysis can turn these rules upside down,” she asserts. “You can wear any colour, at any age, as long as it aligns with your undertone.” With a diverse client list that spans generations, Marks proves there’s no deadline for discovering what suits you.
Why it Matters
Understanding the nuances of colour analysis is not just about aesthetics; it’s a powerful tool for self-expression that transcends age. By embracing the notion that our colour palette remains consistent throughout our lives, we empower ourselves to make bold choices that reflect our unique identities. This approach not only enhances personal style but also challenges societal norms that dictate how we should present ourselves as we age, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant view of beauty at every stage of life.
