The underlying color beneath the surface of the skin, known as the undertone, significantly influences how certain colors appear when worn. Unlike surface skin tone, which changes due to sun exposure, the undertone remains constant. Identifying this subtle base color is key to creating a harmonious color palette that enhances natural radiance. Colors sharing the same temperature naturally complement each other, preventing visual clashing. Selecting the right shades can illuminate the face and provide a healthy glow.
Determining Your Warm Undertone
A warm undertone is characterized by a subtle golden, yellow, or peachy hue beneath the skin’s surface. One common method is examining the veins visible on the inside of the wrist under natural light; if they appear more greenish rather than blue, it suggests a warm undertone. This occurs because the skin’s yellow hue mixes visually with the veins’ blue color. Another test involves holding up jewelry; warm undertones typically find that yellow gold or rose gold accessories look more flattering and luminous. Warm-toned individuals also tend to tan easily and rarely burn or turn pink in the sun.
The Core Palette: Best Complementary Colors
Warm undertones are best complemented by colors that mirror their own golden or yellow base, creating visual continuity. The most flattering hues are often found in the sunset and earth tone range of the color spectrum. These colors share the same warmth, preventing them from clashing with the skin’s natural pigment.
Earth Tones and Reds
Rich earth tones are effective, as they draw out the golden highlights in the complexion. Specific examples include deep moss green, olive green, and warm browns like cinnamon, caramel, or chocolate. Terracotta and rust colors, which are deep, muted orange-reds, also work well by providing contrast while maintaining warmth. When choosing reds and oranges, seek shades with a clear yellow influence. Tomato red, coral, and poppy are excellent choices because they contain more yellow pigment than their cooler counterparts.
Vibrant Hues and Blues
Vibrant yellows and oranges are highly flattering, provided they are rich and saturated. Mustard yellow and saffron are deep, golden hues that avoid the harshness of cooler, lemon-based yellows. Apricot and burnt orange enhance the skin’s warmth and make the complexion appear healthy. When selecting a blue, look for warmer versions such as teal, turquoise, or deep marine navy, which contain a hint of yellow or green pigment to harmonize with the skin’s temperature.
Strategic Neutrals and Metals
Neutrals
Foundational colors, or neutrals, must align with the skin’s temperature to avoid a washed-out appearance. Instead of stark, cool-toned whites, the best light neutrals are cream, ivory, and off-white, offering brightness without harsh, blue-based pigment. Mid-range neutrals include camel, beige, and taupe, which contain subtle yellow or sandy undertones. Warm grays, such as mushroom or stone gray, are preferable to icy grays because they incorporate a hint of brown or green. Deep neutrals are best represented by rich shades like coffee brown, chocolate, and golden tan, providing a grounding effect without the contrast of true black.
Metals
For accessories, metals with a yellow or red hue are the most complementary choice. Yellow gold and rose gold naturally harmonize with the golden tones in the skin, creating a natural glow. Copper and bronze jewelry are also excellent options, as their earthy, reddish tones integrate fully into the warm color spectrum.
Colors to Approach with Caution
Certain colors, particularly those with strong blue or purple bases, can clash with the skin’s warm undertone, resulting in a sallow or dull appearance. This visual disharmony occurs because the cool pigment emphasizes the yellow in the skin. Colors that are too cool or icy should generally be avoided near the face where they have the greatest impact. Specific shades to use sparingly include icy blue, pale lavender, and true emerald green. If incorporating these cooler shades, wearing them as bottoms, shoes, or accessories minimizes their direct influence on the facial complexion.