What is a Clear Spring?

So what actually is a CLEAR SPRING? Spring is always CLEAR (or Bright), always Light and always Warm.

'Different' methods of Color Analysis are always popping up but I never give them a great deal of thought because the Tonal and Seasonal methods work perfectly well and complement each other perfectly.

Some Color Analysis' just cause confusion!

After all the hype, every method comes down to the same straight-forward idea of connecting or matching color characteristics with your own natural characteristics. 

When you surround yourself with colors that echo your own natural coloring then you create balance. Simple!

But some methods of Color Analysis do nothing but create confusion. I've had people tell me they are a 'Cool Spring' or a 'Deep Spring' - impossible! Let me explain...

OK so you're a CLEAR SPRING

As SPRING is always CLEAR LIGHT WARM, if you are determined CLEAR SPRING you are only part of the Season with a diluted color palette.

You are limited to the clearest/brightest tones within SPRING and missing out on many others that bring harmony.   

With a restricted range of colors the shades become so specific that it's extremely difficult to recognize them and almost impossible to shop because your choice is so limited.

You could be missing out on a much wider range of colors! 

You're actually more likely to be either
CLEAR/Bright) or SPRING!

If you're CLEAR (Bright)

Been determined Clear Spring? Then you don't fit easily into the Seasons. It may have been difficult to decide between Spring and Winter which seems strange because one is Warm and one is Cool. Actually you may have a little of both!

This means that undertone i.e. Warm or Cool, is not the most important aspect of your coloring. It is the CLARITY of your coloring, clear beautiful contrast that we notice first. This is your CLEAR/BRIGHT primary characteristic. 

It's often said that CLEAR/BRIGHT is a mix of Spring and Winter and, to some degree, this is true and you'll see some colors from both in the color palette. But only the true CLEAR shades with little to no undertone, certainly no extremes!    

CLEAR coloring doesn't mean you're limited to the boldest brightest colors - black, white, grey and navy are also clear colors! Anything dusky or muted will completely wash you out! 

So if your natural coloring is CLEAR and BRIGHT coloring, this could be for you. Rather than a limited array of colors you could be wearing and enjoying the whole spectrum of the BRIGHT color family.

Or if you're a true SPRING

SPRING is a glorious mix of three color characteristics, it's always CLEAR/BRIGHT always LIGHT and always WARM.

This color mix will complement your vivid and vibrant coloring which creates a high contrast between your features. You enjoy wearing fresh and snappy colorways which suit your  bright personality. Dull colors bring you down! 

While all of the colors are CLEAR, the Light and Warm elements are also needed to bring this beautiful color palette to life.

The whole is just... well.. Spring is considered nature's time to party!

Whichever you are don't dilute your colors!

Whatever color palette you're given it should include shades of every color - reds, blues, greens, yellows, purples, greys, beige, browns. Each one has elements of the color characteristics that complement your natural coloring and you need them all to look your best!

You'll have your favorites, some will look better than others. Season to season you'll be influenced by fashion and your tastes will develop and change.  

You'll choose your light or slightly stronger shades according to mood and occasion; professional, conservative, holiday time etc. but as long as you're within your color direction you really can't go wrong.

Don't dilute it, just enjoy!

Don't think that any SEASONAL swatch is just for the specific season, it will work for you year-round! 

Don't dilute a color palette - just enjoy!

Whether Seasonal or Tonal you need choice!

Some people are still nervous about Color Analysis because they think their color choice is going to be severely limited. Breaking up the Seasons does just that.

When I was first came across Color Analysis I was given a small swatch and told what I 'could' and 'couldn't' wear! Probably like you, I don't like being 'told' what to do.

Only you know what makes you feel good and what you need is choice.You need the widest possible choice of colors that make you look good and if some colors are new it's great to experiment. Choice is usually influenced by mood and occasion anyway.

If you've been correctly analyzed you will see familiar and favorite shades, you will feel comfortable! Color is a fabulous medium, it's here to be enjoyed and it's FUN!