Review of House of Colour Color Analysis
Happy Thursday, everyone. Welcome to my Review of House of Colour color analysis.
My review of House of Colour is the next step in my color analysis journey which I explained in yesterday’s post.
The post ended with an introduction of a very sweet, intelligent woman, Kim Clay with House of Colour.
When I was shopping in Addie’s Boutique in Abilene, I noticed that Kim stops by and labels the clothing according to the seasons…(wish all retailers allowed this!)
So, I reached out to Kim and asked if I could interview her for this blog. Yes, I was also seeking information for me as well!
She offered to do a session with me and since I was questioning what the mirror now showed me, I jumped at it…also so I could offer you a complete review of the process.
As I wrote yesterday, I have never sat for an actual draping and I was very curious to experience the process.
Eye Opening is best way to describe my experience with the House of Colour process for color analysis.
REVIEW OF HOUSE OF COLOR COLOR ANALYSIS: BEGINNING STEPS
Kim gave an important presentation to explain the process and the benefits of color analysis.
She said we start by determining if our skin is yellow tones (warm) or blue tones (cool).
I enjoyed re-visiting what I have already experienced with color analysis…it builds confidence, it helps us in building a wardrobe that works together, and saves money and time in the long run.
For women in my over 50+ age groups, it does help us to look brighter, healthier and younger.
It was there that I began to see a difference when I lived in a place with more light…I still saw shadows on my face and neck…and looked much older to me.
I am well aware we age…but I do not want to look unhealthy and depressed as I go through these years ahead.
Kim also explains the reasons to wear our best accessory choices…warm (gold toned) and cool (silver toned).
Our accessories can look “cheap” and can take down our overall appearance if we are wearing the wrong tones.
In this review of House of Colour, I also want to note that they do help with hair color, but hair color does NOT determine our best seasons.
They cover the hair completely and ask that we not wear make-up…both of those are addressed at the end of the presentation.
Allow me to remind you, that my most recent color analysis in 2021 resulted in VIBRANT AUTUMN, and was done online…no in-person draping.
I now know the in-person draping is critical…you have to see this with your own eyes to believe it.
I would not have accepted the results without seeing it for myself…..
Shocker…….
REVIEW OF HOUSE OF COLOR COLOR ANALYSIS: A TOTAL SURPRISE
Well, hello SPRING…not the season out the window…but the colors on my face.
I have yellow undertones, so I am definitely a warm color palette.
And I am still vibrant…just not an autumn.
Kim really did not have to say much….she allowed her work to do the talking.
I was facing a window with full sun, and as she draped the differences between autumn and spring…it was obvious I was not an autumn.
I softly said, “Oh my goodness, am I a spring?”
I could not only see what was happening on my face, but, as I mentioned, I could see it on my neck (big time!)
The colors I had been wearing as my best colors darkened my neck so much.
With the spring colors, it actually looked tighter and younger.
A few years ago, I was asked to MC a fashion show and the boutique owner dressed me in her clothing for the show.
I received so many compliments, but I insisted the jacket and top were NOT in my colors!
This happened again at a Chico’s try-on. I tried on a no iron tunic top in coral and received so many compliments, but I insisted coral is not a best color.
Well, knock me over with a feather…it appears I was wrong.
Initially, I was shocked…but could see it…there was no denying.
My color analysis said that I am a Spring with clear, bright, light, warm colors.
As I began to process, Kim became a great counselor to help me through “wardrobe panic.”
She reminded me that I am still a warm palette, that Vibrant autumn was just a smidge away, I already wear gold accessories, and I do have pieces that will work for both.
Kim said, “What is important to remember is to concentrate most on what is near your top half….near your face.”
REVIEW OF HOUSE OF COLOR COLOR ANALYSIS: MY WARDROBE
As we proceeded in the color analysis, I could see it…the SPRING palette does look better.
My very best colors which have three stars by them are:
- Chocolate: a softer, lighter brown
- Bright Navy
- Tangerine
- Coral
- Geranium
- Flamingo Pink (yes, the girl who never wears pink is going to give it a try)
- Kerry Green
- Mint Green
- Canary Yellow
- Violet
- Bright Blue
- Aqua
The two star colors are:
- Beige
- Dove Grey
- Oxford Blue
- Tan
- Cinnamon
- Honey
- Cream
- Peach
- Salmon
- Shell Pink
- Terracotta
- Geranium Pink
- Leaf Green
- Apple Green
- Corn Yellow
- Hyacinth
- Turquoise
- Aquamarine
House of Colour recommends this process for the wardrobe after color analysis:
- Use the fan to sort through the wardrobe to find exact matches and matches that tone with the palette.
- Make a pile of those first.
- Make a pile of clothing that does not match your best color palette…consider donating or re-sale
- If you have items you love wearing and they are not in your palette, then go ahead and keep them for awhile…most likely we will see that we do not return to them…but I will say that after holding on to my favorite black pieces, I did return to them and they did not work. I might as well have courage and send them on their merry way. Why? because I like what I saw in the mirror at Kim’s studio.
I will confess that I have NEVER shopped with a fan that has colors like this on it…so I will take you along for the process…I have so much to learn.
I will tell you what I keep and send on its way and why. But, once again, I am a student of color analysis…learning how to be a Spring in Springtime!
I also have so much to learn about the right makeup.
House of Colour does do makeup and sell it, but my makeup specialist, Brian, is also familiar with House of Color Color Analysis and he is already on the job for me.
My hair color as it has been for recent years…a honey blonde…is perfect for a spring.
There is so much to tell you in this review of House of Colour…so ask questions if I have not covered everything. If I do not know the answers, I will ask Kim.
What is important is that at age 71…it makes a difference and I want to be my confident best always…I saw it with my own eyes...my face brightened and softened before me.
It is daunting to change from autumn to spring, but at the same time, it is exciting…told Mr. B…I have to shop!
REVIEW OF HOUSE OF COLOR COLOR ANALYSIS: ABILENE
Anyone in or near Abilene, I HIGHLY recommend Kim Clay, and she is worth every penny.
Abilene is blessed to have someone like Kim to help…she is very thorough and intelligent…all with a smile.
I have friends who have done House of Colour color analysis in San Antonio with their family members, and loved the experience.
My friend, Karen, said that it changed everything for her in a good way and she lis thankful to have a wardrobe that works for her now.
Thank you for joining me today for my Review of House of Colour Color Analysis.
Let me know if you have any questions…and join me as a go from autumn to spring!
KEEP SMILING!!
By Pamela Lutrell
Whether shopping new arrivals or clearance sales, please shop with the links on my SHOPPING PAGE…thank you, thank you to all who shop this way.
SEE YOU TOMORROW WITH A NEW FASHION DISPLAY
I am just catching up, reading yesterday’s post as well as today’s. I can only imagine how you must be feeling after receiving this valuable new information about your most flattering colors. I am a big believer in color theory, but haven’t had any follow-up consultations since my original in-person analysis (with draping) in 2014. That was a real shock to me, almost what you just went through. The analyst was suggesting I wear colors I would never consider, like aubergine (deep eggplant purple.) I’m ashamed to admit that it took me several years to start following the recommendations, and I only did so after finding a fabulous sweater dress on deep discount that was – you guessed it – aubergine! I received so many compliments every time I wore it I realized that there must be some validity to my recommendations. The harder concept for me to grasp was the importance of contrast, but now that I finally understand it my outfits seem to flatter me more. Was contrast a part of the House of Color system? Now you have me wondering if I need to be draped again to see if my old recommendations are valid. I love how positive you sound about this unexpected development and look forward to following more of your color journey. Something I learned on my own when trying to decide between gold and silver jewelry was that there IS another choice – rose gold! I took all the magazine quizzes that said things like “If your veins look blue through your skin you should wear silver and if they look green, wear gold,” yet it never felt like either one looked right with my skin tone. When I chose my MOB jewelry for my daughter’s wedding in 2013 I ended up buying an inexpensive rose gold watch to match and it was like someone flipped a switch and my skin just lit up. I now wear rose gold almost exclusively, and treat myself to a new piece of rose gold for each birthday. Hope that might be helpful to anyone else struggling with the gold/silver issue. As someone else mentioned, it would be so much fun to see you and Susan have a conversation about color – maybe even a video? I hope you can consider doing regular color analysis updates, as I think it’s one of the most interesting and significant choices we make in our wardrobes. I look forward to seeing you shining in your new spring colors, and hope you can still find some items in your existing wardrobe that work.
Hi Pam, I just wanted to say how your face seems to light up with these spring colors near your face. The color analysis looks like it really helps and is a lot of fun.
Well, I suspect we will see some shopping to come! I always liked you best in navy and think the spring analysis is more correct. To be fair, the past colour analysis was done online, and so that means colours of your skin tone would not translate exactly. So I am looking forward to seeing what comes next. I. Think you are pretty excited for some change.
I will consider the updates! It is going to be interesting shopping for these colors….but fun!
I was amazed as I sat in the chair and watched the difference on my face and neck. It is as though a light is turned on and off. Thanks Brenda.
I need to stick to the brighter navy colors and not the darker ones. I hope this weekend to take out everything and do a new evaluation…no reason to keep clothing around any longer that is not my best…fortunately there are a few things I can keep. Thanks Irene.
I’m a “self diagnosed” blue autumn. But now I’m thinking I really have to do this in person. There are a few House of Color consultants in the area. I’m shocked but not shocked that you are a spring, because I’ve always seen the warmth and brightness in your coloring. I was one who kept commenting that you were not a winter :). I think vibrant autumn looked so much better on you than the winter colors simply because they were warm. But this is next level. And there’s no reason to dump your bottom half … I can certainly see olive pants with a flamingo top looking just wonderful on you. And of -course- you always looked so great in navy, because it was in your palette after all! I agree in ditching the black. Sadly I’m slipping back into it, and I get that it’s not my best. And I want to look my best self!
Good morning,
I was first told I was an autumn; I have red tones in my hair and green/grey eyes. I was never comfortable with the autumn colors, so tried again and was a summer, much happier with those colors, as my kids grew, and I was always in a rush I got away from dressing in my colors. Once life slowed down, I tried again and this time I was a soft summer, those colors were perfect for me, and I continue to wear them. Since it has been several years, and the hair color has faded I am considering going again.
Pam, thank you for all you do to keep us growing older in style.
Wow! You actually changed seasons, albeit to a warm one! Shocking for you, but fun, fun, fun! The photo says it all. I am glad you are finally banishing the black and that you will wear the bright navy. It will be fun to add the brightness. Will chocolate and bright navy be your neutrals? You didn’t mention neutrals. I love this new journey. I hope that you and Susan will do some videos. I remember when I went from a spring to a dark autumn, it was such a relief for me to see the difference in the mirror. I am so happy that you experienced it in person. It is magical and game changing. Your head must be spinning!
So do I, Linda! Life is short…why not be the best me every day! I think you would enjoy the House of Colour experience!
You are welcome, Tina! Thanks for sharing your journey!
Yep…my head is spinning but that is what makes it fun too!! Mt neutrals will be tan, off white, chocolate and a bright navy.
I think I will miss olive green the most, but there is still beautiful green I can wear. I am concentrating on the top half right now. Thanks Deborah!
You looked so good in the autumn colors, I’m looking forward to seeing your spring transformation. You’ve addressed before about how staying open to change can really give you a younger mindset (or something similar). Well, you’re leading by example. It’s really great and inspiring to see all of your embracing of this new chapter of your life.
What if you are just neutral and not warm or cool? My makeup base is always from the neutral section of a lines choices. Anything else looks wrong.
Have had my colors done twice. Post menopause said I was a cool rose palette. Soft pastels and muted dark colors and no sharp contrasts. Pinks and blues are my best colors. Funny since that’s how my grandmothers always dressed me. Think I will try draping somewhere in Memphis since I’m now post menopause and post chemo.
I really like your palette because it says what I want people to see in me – you can be happy and approachable at any age and regardless of what life throws at you.
It is so important for us in the second half of life to remain teachable. I meet so many women who are stuck and refuse to make changes and all I would say to them is Why Not? Why not look our very best and exude youthful joy in the second half of life. This is another adventure and I hope I can inspire and lead us to go forward and enjoy our lives more. We are all the examples and models for those who come behind us. Wearing our best colors does put a glow on our faces!
For some reason I am not surprised that you are a Spring. And I am excited for you because you look wonderful draped in those colors. You are going to have a lot of fun shopping now. I was draped in the 90s ago and rated a “Sparkling Autumn” by “Beauty For All Seasons”. I still have my color swatches and there are a number of Spring colors included and none of the deeper Autumn shades. When I had a virtual re-rate about 4 years ago the consultant rated me Warm. The wallet I received was nearly identical to the colors I had received decades earlier and still features both Spring and Autumn colors and some of my best colors are similar to yours (tangerine, coral, peach, salmon, turquoise,aqua, etc.) even though I’m not a true Spring. I suspect you have some items that will continue to work for you like the colorful parrot topper when you pair it with something like turquoise.
You are so right, Connie and it sounds like you are a good example of your last line. What I saw in the draping was truly an experience…I had heard that I would see it, but seeing for myself…the lights come on an off with various colors was so interesting. I could see immediately what colors brightened my complexion. I think it would bless you after going through so much and inspire you going forward.
The challenge for me is to find those colors.
Yes, I do believe I have several pieces that will stay with me…but I need to add some colors that are not in my closet at all. I have already begun to work on that. The House of Colour gives clients a booklet that is very helpful for styling outfits because it goes through a variety of how to mix some of the colors. I am going to use that in the beginning to put together some outfits. Sitting here right now, I am excited but not sure what this will look like until I clean out! Thanks, Kathie.
You have just explained what I have been feeling for the last few years! Exciting to know that one’s colors need an evaluation every few years. Labeled a warm autumn, like you, I always had a hard time gravitaing towards those colors especially since I live in a “bright”, light area; I have always believed I was more “clear” than murky. You were able to wear an olive green so much better than I could but that color was not one I favored and definitely I avoided it. I always felt if I did not like a color there was no way I woud wear it; I struggle with lavender. Purples in any shade make me react negatively; long story but I associate purple with unhappiness. You look stunning in that brighter green jacket! Clear, light, bright, warm; I think this may be my new guide. You did get me seriously thinking about a visit to Susan Blakely. Thanks Pam!
Susan would love to help you, Linda and she is so inspirational with her color journey. I believe you would be truly blessed to do this. When I saw a pink color on me and it looked good, my disdain for pink flew out the window! I know I will not wear every color in my palette but it will be fun discovering which ones work best. I just need to think warm and bright together…which I have not done before now.
This is exciting and I look forward to your shopping journey for your new colors!
In the past, you’ve done try-ons and mentioned that they weren’t your colors, but many of your readers have commented on how good you looked in the clothes. I had been in agreement. Maybe those were colors which are truly in your palette after all.
I love your enthusiasm and you’ve definitely encouraged me. I turn 70 this summer and I appreciate having someone who inspires me to continue to be my best self, no matter my age.
Good morning “spring”. Looking forward to seeing you shop, such fun.
Yes! Cindy! Let’s look our best next matter our age!
So glad you will join a long, Audrey!
I also did online with Red Leopard during Covid. They were right on that I am an autumn. I missed having the in person experience and was able to do one with Susan in California! She confirmed I was an autumn, but the draping was a fantastic experience to see the colors on me in person. I’m so glad I did it! I am a bright autumn leaf which works super well for me! The good part for you is there are many same and similar colors since both are warm palettes! I have so much gratitude for Red Leopard and Susan;). They changed my life. I used to wear only black, grey, and white as New Yorkers do. My color analysis was one of the best investments in my life!
This is so much fun. Also the reason I always had my sessions done in person, you have to see for yourself what is happening. I was still typed wrong by someone who I am sure was not taught extensively, so for me thel reason I keep learning such as contrast etc.
I am excited for you and love that you are taking us along on your journey. Have fun sorting and shopping.
I was told by one that it can take 6 months to get comfortable with all the changes.
love this
This looks like fun. However, I have never considered having my colours done. I like to wear many different colours and I would not want to be restricted. I think that there are many colours that look nice on me.
Pam I was holding my breath for this post wondering who reaccessed your colors. Because several weeks ago I booked a color session (first time in my life)…….with House of Color for next week. I was looking forward to the session but now I’m excited!
Whoo-hooo! Spring! I think it’s a perfect for you. An in-person draping makes all the difference in the world. Although you were wearing dark navy as a fairly new Autumn, I thought it was still too dark and dull for you, but so much better than Winter black. The Autumn and Spring color choices have many shades that are so very closely related, I think you’ll be able to keep a lot of your upper clothes and just accent them with a Spring scarf or Spring tee. I still use my Color Me Beautiful color swatches occasionally, although they’re from several decades ago. Have fun with your new colors. I’m sure we’re all looking forward to seeing your continuing color journey.
I would agree with you, Lila that it is worth every penny and time to discover our best colors. I am so glad that I am still a warm woman..that part always felt right.
The six months window makes sense to me. There are so many colors on my fan and I would like to experience as many as I can to determine what is best for me. Thanks Diane.
Make sure that you look at them in the light, Kathy and how the shadows that may be cast on your face and neck…you will be amazed at what happens when you see yourself in your best colors and also see what is happening from the ones not in your true palette. Play with it in the mirror and see if you can see it for yourself…sense you enjoy color, you would enjoy the exercise with the drapes.
You will have fun, Suzi…please report back and tell us what you learn.
Thanks so much, Judith.
Welcome to Spring! I had an in-person colour analysis done many years ago and discovered that I’m also a Spring, so I’m really looking forward to following your journey into a new colour palette!
Never have had my colors done but so excited for you Pamela and looking forward to seeing your new color palette journey. -Brenda-
Thanks so much, Elaine.
Thanks Brenda..it is lots of fun.
Pamela, those spring colors really bring a glow to your complexion. I’m looking forward to your journey with your new palette and with how Brian may tweak your makeup. I would love to have the experience of being professionally draped. However, I live a good distance from a big city and have little trust in an online experience. I really enjoyed the video yesterday. I’m 80 years old and have clothes in cool blues, pale bluish pink and navy. These all seem to give my skin a lift. Warm colors immediately look muddy on me. So I have avoided them. Not professional but practical. I wear silver jewelry as gold just looks off on me. It still will be fun watching your warm spring journey.
I am happy to say that I have a House of Color nearby. After yesterday’s post, I did a little research on color analysis businesses near me, & that named popped up. I know you must have been surprised at your results, but that is one of the drawbacks of doing things online, even shopping. You’re never really sure of colors & tones. Obviously, your true colors make you happy & make you look your best. Like you, I don’t want to become drab & colorless as I age. Life is short, & I want to look & feel my best. Happy shopping to you!
Thanks for joining in, Sydney!
If you decide to do this, Becky, please share how it went and the results. Love to hear about what you are learning.
You look absolutely gorgeous in your spring colors, Pam!
Thank you, Cynthia!
Well this is a fun development and I look forward to seeing the Spring evolution! One thing I don’t get in looking at your colors is how that bright violet is a warm tone. I m a painter so am knowledgeable about color and would always peg these bright purples as cool tones.
You would need to talk to the experts about that, Penelope.
I finally had time to read this. Very interesting. Actually you do look better in the spring colors. Looking forward to see some new purchases. I’d love to have a visit to House of Colour.
It was fun and I think very beneficial!
Great article, thank you. Do you know if there is a House of Color in San Antonio or near San Antonio? Thank you.
Yes! Christina Welch is in San Antonio! I know her and two of her happy customers. Google Christina Welch House of Colour San Antonio. Her contact info should pop up.
I’m a bit late to the party on this, but I think you have truly found your colour palette! I agree with the other commenters that your online work during the pandemic got you into the right season, but this has truly honed the process. You look lovely in the Spring colors and it will be fun to see all your adjustments along the way.
I’ve never had my colours done, but I’m eager to try this, including as a way to help me cull my working clothes, now that I’m a few years into retirement. Unfortunately, it seems the House of Color is based solely in the US – any suggestions for Canadian providers?
It could be fun, if your color analyst and clients are willing, to have a blog post on doing this process for someone in each of the seasons. Seeing their clothing choices before and then following a colour analysis with them to see the results. It might help everyone who is in a different season.
I do not know about Canada…but let me do some asking around, Barb, and see what I can discover for you. Your last suggestion would also be fun and I will keep it in mind…thanks!
I’m absolutely delighted that you had an in-person draping – the drapes don’t lie! What’s so interesting is that you knew beforehand that something still wasn’t quite right, and really noticed it in your new residence, which has an abundance of natural light. Your instincts were correct!
I don’t think your style type will change. Springs can also be bohemian, can’t they?
Please continue bringing us on this journey with you; I find it fascinating! Collaboration with Susan Blakey would be fun, too.
I tried bohemian for awhile and it just wasn’t me overall. I dress with style adjectives…. I want my clothing to say that I am polished, creative, approachable, current and joyful. Thanks so much!