Knowing your season is one thing. Using it every time you walk into a shop or browse online is where it really pays off. Here are Maureen’s practical tips for putting your palette to work.
Carry your palette everywhere
The palette card you receive in your session is designed to be used. Keep it in your bag, wallet or car so it's always on hand. When you see something you like, hold the card next to it in natural daylight if you can, ideally out of direct sunlight. Shop lighting can be very warm or very cool, which makes colours look different from how they'll appear in daylight.
You don't need an exact match. Look for a garment that sits comfortably alongside your swatches, as if it belongs in the same family. If it looks out of place next to the card, it will probably look out of place next to you.
Focus on colours near your face
The colours closest to your face have the biggest effect on how you look. Tops, shirts, collars, scarves, knitwear and ties are where your palette matters most.
Further from the face, there's more flexibility. Trousers, skirts, shoes and bags can come from a broader range, especially neutrals. If you love a colour that isn't in your palette, wearing it below the waist is an easy way to enjoy it.
Build a capsule wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe is a smaller collection of pieces that all work together. Your palette makes this much easier, because colours from one season naturally harmonise with each other.
Start with neutrals
Choose two or three neutrals from your palette as your foundation. Depending on your season, that might be navy, charcoal, camel, taupe, soft grey, olive or chocolate brown. Use these for the pieces you wear most often, such as coats, suits, trousers and jackets.
Add your best colours
Next, add a few colours that really lift your complexion. These work well for tops, shirts and knitwear, where they're close to your face.
Use accents
Finally, bring in one or two accent colours for scarves, ties, jewellery or accessories. These are where you can have some fun.
Because everything comes from the same palette, more combinations work, and getting dressed becomes quicker.
Practical shopping tips
Shop with a plan. Before you go, note the gaps in your wardrobe and the colours you'd like to fill them with.
Check fabric and finish. The same colour can look different in a matte cotton and a shiny satin. If you suit softer, muted colours, matte or brushed finishes usually work best and very glossy fabrics may feel too strong. If you suit brighter colours, smooth, crisp finishes with a little sheen often work well.
Shopping online. Screens vary, so colours online aren't always accurate. Check product descriptions, look at several photos and know the returns policy.
Go slowly. You don't need to replace your wardrobe overnight. Replace items gradually as they wear out, and your wardrobe will shift towards your palette naturally.
If you'd like hands-on help, an optional wardrobe assessment can be added to your session on request.
Makeup and grooming
Your palette is also a guide for lipstick, blush and eyeshadow, and Maureen includes makeup recommendations in every session. Your palette also guides glasses frames and accessories worn near your face, whether or not you wear makeup.
Ready to make your palette work for you?
If you haven’t found your season yet, or you’re in Perth and would like a refresher, you can book a session with Maureen whenever it suits you.
The individual colour analysis page explains what a one-on-one session with Maureen includes.
Thinking about a change of hair colour too? Read Choosing a Hair Colour That Suits Your Season