Understanding Your Skin Tone: The Basics
- Surface tone: The color you see on the surface
- Undertone: The subtle hue beneath your skin (warm, cool, or neutral)
How to Determine Your Undertone
- The Vein Test
- Green veins → Warm undertone
- Blue/purple veins → Cool undertone
- Mix of both → Neutral undertone
- The Jewelry Test
- Gold looks better → Warm undertone
- Silver looks better → Cool undertone
- Both look good → Neutral undertone
- The Sun Reaction Test
- Tan easily → Warm undertone
- Burn easily → Cool undertone
- Moderate reaction → Neutral undertone
Your Complete Color Chart Guide
Warm Undertones
- Earth tones (brown, camel, beige)
- Warm reds and oranges
- Golden yellow
- Olive green
- Coral
- Cream
- Harsh white
- Ice blue
- Fuchsia
- Cool gray Here are some examples, with photos, of the most flattering colors for warm undertones and those that clash:
Top Choice Eyeshadow Palette - Warm Neutrals
Cool Undertones
- Pure white
- Navy blue
- Cool pink
- Emerald green
- Purple
- Blue-based reds
- Orange
- Bright yellow
- Camel
- Rust
Top Choice Eyeshadow Palette - Vintage Jean Baby & Smokey & Highlight
Neutral Undertones
- Muted tones over vibrant ones
- Mid-range colors
- Softer versions of both warm and cool colors
2025 Color Trends for Each Skin Tone
- AI-Powered Color Analysis Using advanced technology to determine precise color matches for your skin tone. You can check out our AI color analysis tool to find personal recommendations.
- Sustainable Color Choices Focusing on timeless colors that work well with your skin tone to build a lasting wardrobe.
- Digital Color Matching Virtual try-on tools that help preview how different colors will look with your complexion.
Building Your Wardrobe
- Start with your best neutral colors as foundation pieces
- Add accent colors that complement your undertone
- Experiment with different shades within your favorable color family
- Consider seasonal variations of your best colors
Professional Tips
- Use color blocking techniques to create flattering combinations
- Consider the intensity of colors based on your contrast level
- Factor in hair and eye color for a holistic approach
- Test colors in natural lighting for best results
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Following trends without considering your skin tone
- Ignoring the impact of fabric texture on color appearance
- Not adjusting colors seasonally
- Overlooking the importance of makeup coordination
Resources and Tools
Related seasonal color guides
- Summer Family:
- Autumn Family:
- Winter Family:
Conclusion
Article by
Natalie Bolonina
Graduated from the ESSEC Business School, Natalie is a marketing expert specializing in beauty tech.
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