Most people dismiss red because they wore it once and it didn’t look right. Or they bought a lipstick that didn’t suit them (even though it was supposed to suit everyone…).
There’s no denying that red is a bold colour, but to wear it successfully, you need to stop treating red as one single colour and start thinking about how you can find your red from the wider family of colours.
In my next instalment of my ‘How to Wear Colour’ series, I’ll help you understand why red can feel too much, too warm, or too bright, and how to wear it with ease.
Watch the latest video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/vHSugg_e2s0
Versions of red
Because there are so many different versions of red, it can feel tricky to find the one that suits you. But, it’s not impossible! Everyone is different, and red has a lot of personality attached to it. That’s why I encourage you to think about red as a family of colours rather than just red.
Rose, berries, tomato, wine and cherry reds are all very different. Each has a different undertone, strength and depth. Your skin responds to them in different ways.
Things to consider:
– Undertone – whether the red is warm (like the colour of a tomato) or cool (like a berry).
– Strength – whether it’s soft and muted, or bright and jewel-like.
– Depth – whether it’s lighter and paler, or deeper and richer – like oxblood.
Your best red will look far more flattering when it echos your own colouring, rather than fighting it.
Tips on wearing red
If head-to-toe red feels too scary or dramatic, tone it down. A splash of red in a pattern, or in your accessories can be just as effective.
It’s a great colour to combine with others if you’re looking to soften it. Classic combinations like navy and red, or paired with chocolate brown and grey are much classier than black in my opinion. A colour clash I really like is red and pink – they might feel daring, but they sit next to each other on the colour wheel!
A bold red lipstick or red nail polish is another easy way to add a pop of colour. Lipstick brings the focus to your face, but I don’t agree that there’s one red lipstick for everyone. I keep a variety of reds in the studio, as well as some great alternatives for when red feels too much.
Pro tip: Red Velvet has a warm undertone and Red Carpet has a cool undertone. Both are available to try in the studio and buy online.
If you’re feeling hesitant, wearing red in a pattern, or adding a pop of red through your accessories is an easy, and less dramatic way to start.
Pro tip: The super soft scarf in Scarlet is a great option of you’ve got stronger or richer features, but it does lean slightly ‘warmer’ as an undertone. Available from the studio as well as online – limited supplies remain.
How I wear red
My set of swatches
I have a few red pieces in my wardrobe – dresses, tops and a coat. My reds are more subtle which suit both my colouring type and my personality.
You’ll get a closer look in the video of some of my favourite red pieces, and my red-inspired outfits will be on Instagram and Facebook soon.
I’ll go for a pop of red or opt for my claret and softer shades of red. I tend to avoid very bright and bold versions.
Check the socials (Instagram and Facebook) to see the red-inspired looks and don’t forget to watch the video on YouTube too.
Your best reds
Forget trends and think about how the colour behaves on you.
If red has ever made you look tired, grey, overpowered or uncomfortable, it’s usually because it’s not the right version for you.
A simple way to test this when you’re out shopping is to compare two reds side by side. Hold them near your face and watch what happens to your skin. Does one make your eyes look clearer and your skin fresher? Does the other highlight shadows or redness?
Your best red should lift you, not fight you. And once you find it, red stops feeling bold and scary and starts feeling much more wearable.
During my Colour Analysis Consultation, your individual characteristics are assessed to establish the shades that suit you best and how to wear them confidently. If you’re unsure what works for you – get clarity by booking a consultation. Gift vouchers are available, or you can come with a friend.