Neiman Marcus has been touting yellow as the new neutral this spring. The first time I saw this, I cringed but thought it might be just a way of grabbing shoppers’ attention. Then, when it appeared again, I decided to weigh in on the subject.
The last time I checked, yellow was one of the three primary colors and it at the center of the warm side of the color wheel. These colors are not considered neutrals! Neutrals are black, grey, brown, and white, with their many variations. Since we generally have either cool or warm coloring, yellow in going to be flattering on those who have warm coloring.
Whether you are in the cool or warm category is determined by the color of your hair, eyes and skin. Since your skin is the largest factor, it is a greater determiner. Skin has either a pink or peach undertone. Pink indicates that cool colors will look better while peach indicates that warm colors will be more flattering. You can do a quick check yourself by choosing a well-lighted area then holding orange or lime green under your chin. Look at your skin then compare how it looks when magenta is held under your chin. Observe which makes your skin look more alive.
Yellow is bright and cheerful, reminding us of sunshine so if you have a passion for yellow, it is understandable. I have seen a soft butter-yellow worn by some cool-toned people effectively. It can be dramatic on dark skin. Deeper golden-yellow or yellow-green tone will not be flattering no matter how much you love it.
Yellow may not be a neutral but it offers a colorful accent for many cool colors: blue, red, green, or violet. Just punch it out with a yellow purse or kick it with yellow shoes!
Not sure if you are cool or warm? Host a style party and have your friends join in learning their colors, body shape and how to best wear this season’s styles. Only $35 per person. Call or email for more information: Beryl@StyleWithAplomb.com or call 404-428-2527.