Have you ever made something or purchased something from a website from a piece of fabric or color you love only to put it on and think “Ugh, that doesn’t work”? I have, many times; and it’s not so fun. So when my friend Amy told me she helped people with their colors, I thought about it for a year or so and then made (and purchased) something else that didn’t really work. I get so bummed when I make something, especially a knitted sweater, or something I’ve taken a lot of time to put together, and the color turns out to be unflattering. So, having done that one too many times, I turned to Amy and asked for her assistance.

We set up a time to meet at The Sewing Room, because the light is actually really awesome in my space.

I was draped with a white (that looks good on NOBODY) apron, but apparently neutralizes colors. I was wearing a bright green top, so it definitely needed neutralizing. Amy came with loads of boxes filled with swatches. They are all divided into seasons and then are named after gemstones, which gave me really warm fuzzy yummy vibes for some reason. It could just be Amy too, she’s pretty fabulous (and always looks so good in her personal palette). She started with my skin tone, comparing the swatches to my complexion and then moved onto hair and eyes.

Amy determined that I’m a (rose toned)Summer, which was kind of a surprise.

I thought I would be more of a winter because I have such light hair (like snow), but apparently that is not how it works. The idea behind finding one’s colors is that you are looking for the colors that are most harmonious with your skin, hair and eyes; not necessarily the colors you “like” the most.

We spent about 1 1/2 hours holding up swatches to my face to determine which were the best whites, darks, skin tones, metallics, neutrals and prints for me. I was initially disappointed that a lot of my favorite colors were not included in my palette. Where were the yellows, oranges and bright greens? Were were the 1930’s colors I love so much? But as I moved through the process, and actually put those colors up against my face and compared them with the palette that Amy was creating, I found that those colors really were NOT harmonious with my coloring.

…I could wear those colors if I wanted, but that I wouldn’t stand out, the COLOR would.

One of the things Amy told me, after explaining that she wasn’t the “color police” (funny huh?) was that I could wear those colors if I wanted, but that I wouldn’t stand out, the color would. And that is interesting. So I’m not going to throw out everything that I’ve made but I’m going to make discerning choices now when I wear those things that might be a little harsh/jarring or clash with my skin, hair and eyes and only keep the things that bring me joy (bright green shirt). I’m also going to make careful choices about the fabric & yarn I acquire as well & that is where I think the whole experience will really pay off. I’ve had a few things in mind to make for myself but have been so hesitant because of the choices over color.

I don’t have my final palette yet, but as soon as I do, it will live in my purse and help guide my purchases - yet another way to be sustainable! Thank you Amy! Not only was this a fun experience, I think it will be really useful for decision making in my future.

Until next time,

xo Jennifer