What the heck is a Soft Autumn?

I've recently been contacted by a lady who had been categorized a Soft Autumn - in fact, it had initially been suggested that she might be a 'Soft Summer'. Now one is Warm and one is Cool - so what's that all about?

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

Some Color Analysis' just cause confusion!

Every method of Color Analysis 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 Autumn' or a 'Light Autumn' - impossible! Let me explain...

OK so you're a Soft Autumn?

A SOFT AUTUMN is limited to the softest colors in the AUTUMN color palette.

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.

If you've been determined a SOFT AUTUMN then you are only part of a Season with a diluted color palette. 

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

But actually you're much more likely to be either
SOFT or an AUTUMN

If you're SOFT/MUTED

If you've been determined Soft Autumn then the SOFT part of Autumn is considerably more relevant to you than the Deep or the Warm elements. 

You probably didn't fit easily into the Seasons; it may have been difficult deciding between Summer and Autumn because you may have elements of both Warm and Cool in your genetic makeup.

Then you may fit more easily into the SOFT/MUTED Color Family which includes the softest shades from both Summer and Autumn. 

The MUTED palette is not all wishy washy or dull neutrals, there are some stronger tones too. Every color, lights and deeps, warm and cool, is richly blended to flow into a greyed down SOFTNESS that complements, without overpowering, your classy and classic coloring.  

or if you're a true AUTUMN

AUTUMN is a glorious mix of 3 color characteristics - it's always SOFT/MUTED always DEEP and always WARM. 

This color mix will complement your classic and richly blended natural coloring which has a medium to low contrast between your features.

While all of the colors are soft, the Deep and Warm are also needed to bring this beautiful color palette to life. 

The whole is just.. well.. classic, classy, elegant and as harmonious as an Autumn landscape. 

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!