How to find clothes that are the right fit for you

Posted on by Toni Carver

If you find it a challenge getting clothes to fit you, it’s tempting to blame yourself. Often, it’s that they aren’t quite right for YOU.

Unless you make your own clothes, or have them made specifically for your body, there might be certain aspects of a garment that don’t quite work. Rest assured, there’s tips and tricks to ‘correct’ many elements, it’s simply understanding and learning what to look for.

This quote sums it up perfectly for me:

The dress must follow the body of the woman, not the body following the shape of the dress. (Hubert de Givenchy)

Identify what’s right for you and work with your body shape, not against it. So, if you’ve got a curvy figure then a boxy shape to a garment will add pounds to your frame because it hides your frame and shape. Nobody wants that!

I meet a lot of ladies who feel that things don’t work for them and they dislike shopping as a result. This is totally understandable, especially if you don’t know what to look for. What’s more, you’ll spend lot of time and money trying to find out.

Right colour, right style, right fit and lifestyle-appropriate. Nail these, and you’ll be grinning like the cat that got the cream. Let me go through these in more detail.

Colour

Have you ever put something on and noticed that the colour drains from your face? Or that suddenly your skin has gone a funny colour?

That need to add a brighter lipstick or slap more blusher on, is because the colour you’re wearing isn’t quite right for you.

The transformation to your overall appearance when you’re wearing the right colours for you, cannot be ignored! It’s a subject I cover frequently here on the blogs as well as on social media.

Colour analysis consultations are by far my most popular service and I never tire of seeing the transformation with clients. I work with a tonal colour analysis system, which assess the colour of your hair, eyes and skin tone to determine the three elements of your colouring type and colours which flatter you the most. My colouring type is soft, cool and deep which means that my core colouring type is soft (low clarity to my features overall, muted and mid-tone colours), with a cool undertone to my skin (blue toned shades rather than yellow) and with some depth (my tertiary as the light pale colours really do wash me out).

Wearing the right colour will visibly lift your appearance but unless it fits like a glove (or vice versa), it will never be perfect for you, so you’ll need to factor these next elements in as well.

Style

Your style is really what feels most like you. Sometimes, it can be hard to describe what your style is, or you may feel like you don’t have one! But, I can assure you that everyone does. Just think – what feels most like you when you wear it?

When you put something on that doesn’t feel like you, you’ll immediately protest as much and take it off! But, wear something which you feel happy, comfortable and more like you when you wear it, and you’ll be much happier. No point dressing like Paloma Faith if you’re really more a Jennifer Aniston type.

That doesn’t mean that you can’t dress differently, or try something new. Try to push your style boundaries, but in a way that feels authentic and still like you. Sometimes it can be the choice of fabric, but more on that shortly.

Patterns can be a real deal-breaker in the style department. For me, I’m not a fan of fussy patterns or stripes. They just don’t work for my style personality, so I don’t tend to buy them as I know I won’t get my £’s per wear or be happy in them.

Fit

We all know when something doesn’t fit right, but often associate this with the number on the label. It’s more likely not fitting your body shape, body line and proportions. Understanding these aspects will help you identify the right style, fit and fabric to choose. Let’s say that you’re petite in height, with a long upper body and short legs – of course it will be harder to get the right fit! But, understand how to dress your features and you’ll make better choices with styles and cuts.

Don’t forget the finer details like sleeves and necklines. A high neckline when you’ve a large bust will enhance the area. You’ll find a lower neckline (like a v-neck), will break up the colour and be more flattering. Sleeve lengths and shoulder seams can be corrective; like a ruffle sleeve when you’ve got small and narrow shoulders. On the other hand, they can enhance the area if you’re broader with wider shoulders by merely extending the shoulder line out, visually speaking.

Most people who come to me for a style and shape session don’t consider the fabric of a garment. Yet, it plays a crucial role in the fit of a garment. Different fabrics have different weights and feels, not to mention how it drapes. Whilst both light in weight, cotton and jersey have a different feel and structure to them. The same garment made from both will look and feel different when worn, depending upon the body wearing it.

In this example, the cotton top left loose over a satin skirt hides my underlying shape and proportions. A few tweaks and hey presto! Learn much more during a 2.5 hour style and shape consultation.

These are just tweaks. Tailoring can be a game-changer in achieving the perfect fit and I often recommend clients have a good seamstress on hand, if they need one. Transformed into bespoke pieces that fit YOU and make them a perfect fit! Which is a huge benefit when you do make your own clothes, because you can create the garment to take into account your own body measurements and adjust the pattern accordingly.

Not knowing what fits and flatters you means you can still end up making costly mistakes so it pays to understand these elements of your body.

Lifestyle-appropriate

Being able to tick all boxes with your clothes, or altering them accordingly, will make it so much easier to dress in clothes that make you look and feel good.

I’m a big believer in having clothes which work for how you spend your time. If you’re the outdoorsy-type and love nothing more, those knee-high, stiletto, velvet boots aren’t going to fare very well…

When your clothes suit the occasion you’re dressing for, you’ll feel appropriate and comfortable, especially when you know they tick all the boxes: right colour, right style, right fit and lifestyle-appropriate.

Get to know what works for you!

Gaining the knowledge can take time if you’re not sure what to look for and it can be costly if you keep making mistakes. My consultations are designed to guide you so that you understand what works for you, and why.

Discover the colours which enhance your natural features and how to wear your colours during a Colour Analysis Consultation. During a Style & Shape session, you’ll learn how to find clothes that tick all the boxes for you as we identify your style personality, shape and proportions.

Get in touch to book your session with me now!

The impact of hair colour in colour analysis consultations

Posted on by Toni Carver

Your hair, and specifically the colour of it, is often a huge topic of discussion during my colour analysis consultations!

I believe it plays an important part of your overall appearance, which is why I assess it during your colour analysis.

Over the years, I’ve seen many clients and heard lots of stories of how hair colour changes have an impact on what you wear. Whether it’s a choice of colouring your hair, ageing, or medical reasons like hair loss and cancer. They all have an impact.

Once you begin to notice that certain colours don’t look quite as good as they did, it’s worth determining if the reason is due to hair changes. If so, how permanent is it likely to be? You may be able to ‘weather the storm’ so to speak!

Skin tone

Worthy of note is that there’s a common misconception that the undertone of your skin doesn’t change as your age. Certainly, under the seasonal colour analysis system, you remain the same palette. However, I’ve seen plenty of examples where this isn’t the case.

The Colour Me Beautiful tonal colour analysis system which I use in my consultations, is more flexible as it recognises that as we get older, hair loses pigmentation, eyes become more muted, and skin becomes more transparent. These aspects will affect the impact of colour when you wear it.

The Colour Me Beautiful MD; Cliff Bashforth is a great example of this. Over the years, he has transitioned between palettes. Back in the early years of colour analysis, Cliff was an autumn. As the seasonal system was developed with CMB, he was a soft autumn Certainly, under the seasonal system, he would still be classified as someone with a warm skin tone, which he actually isn’t anymore. His overall features have changed.

Going grey

Along with Cliff, I have seen many clients over the years who have decided to embrace the grey! Revisit this blog here and take a look at Carol.

By way of another example, if you had dark brown hair in your younger years you’re likely to find that stronger, richer or bolder colours are now feeling and looking ‘too much’. They may be overwhelming your more delicate or softer appearance because the harmony between your hair, skin and eyes has changed.

Not all greys are the same either. There are ash tones, whites, silvers and salt and pepper. But, a colour analysis consultation can help to determine your best shades of colour and how to wear them.

Colouring your hair

Let’s say you were mousey and now have a more vibrant and striking red colour to your hair. The muted colours you will have looked amazing in previously are unlikely to have enough ‘bite’ or drama for you now. No doubt that if you’d been analysed previously, you’re likely to have stopped using your swatches some time ago! The key now is to match the intensity level of your hair with the colours you wear. Do be aware that red tones in the hair can be bold and bright or red and auburn and this difference can have an impact on the underlying hue of the colours which suit you best.

Medical reasons

This can be a very sensitive topic for people. Having worked with some cancer patients over the years, a result can often be hair loss. Many find that their hair grows back very differently! Resulting in a change to your appearance and therefore the colours which once loved you, might not love you the same now.

Deciding to embrace the no-hair look can be a brave move and I remember a client who had alopecia with the most remarkable pattern and design tattooed to her head for the summer. She found the heat was too unpleasant to wear her hair pieces.

Equally, hair pieces can transform your overall look in the same way. Choosing to go blonde, brunette, red or blue will all require an adaption if you want what you wear to harmonise with your features.

Wardrobe impact

If you have found that your hair colour changes are having an impact on your choice of colours and how they look, a wardrobe assessment might be in order.

Should the change be temporary, or you plan on frequently changing your hair colour, you may find yourself altering and updating your wardrobe frequently.

A more permanent change means it’s a good time to reassess your wardrobe and if what you have still works for you, or if you need to adapt it.

Be certain that it’s definitely the colour that’s not working for you, or if it could be the pattern/design/style/fit or material? These factors can also affect how ‘good’ something looks and how you feel.

Can you ‘rescue’ the colour by wearing it with another colour? Perhaps try a scarf or jewellery to break up the colour near to your face.

A piece of advice I give all my clients is to keep the ‘wrong’ colour away from your face and wear it on the bottom half. The impact of the colour will be far less severe when worn this way and you still get to wear and enjoy it.

Dyeing your clothes could be another option, especially if the fabric is not man-made. Synthetics don’t dye well at home (without major effort), but mixes still will (like polycotton).

For those that can’t be rescued and you decide to let them go, be clear about what colour you need to replace it with, if at all.

The impact of different shades of a colour

I always say that you can wear every colour. However, there is more than one shade, tint or tone of a colour!

I’ve recorded a video in which I show you examples of different tones of pink and greens against my features. I wanted to try and demonstrate the subtle difference in colours and how they would look different if my hair was different. You’ll find it on YouTube here.

A colour analysis consultation will help you with all the aspects discussed in this blog and shown in the video.

Get in touch to book your colour analysis consultation.

Appointments are available Monday to Saturday. To enquire about availability, just get in touch! Toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk

4 Colour analysis mistakes, what to look for and how to get it right

Posted on by Toni Carver

In last week’s blog, I shared nine tell-tale signs that you’re wearing the wrong colour which you can revisit here.

As a professional colour consultant, I’m always asked how to tell if the colour you’re wearing is right for you. This is an important one, given that one of the (many) advantages of getting your colours done is to be able to know and understand what suits you so that you can make fewer shopping mistakes. But, it can also be very subjective and up for ‘opinion’ because not everyone sees colour in the same way.

Yet, your image makes up a very visual statement to the world. If something doesn’t suit, fit or flatter you, or you don’t feel good in it, this will be seen and reflected in your image. Your style and shape have an important part to play in your overall image but it’s colour which has the most impact. When a colour isn’t right for you, it will alter and impact your appearance greatly.

I’ve recorded a video which takes you through some of the common mistakes people make when assessing if a colour is right for them. You can watch the video on YouTube here but I’ve also summarised the key points below.

Mistake one

When you see the colour against your skin tone, shadows underneath your chin, dark circles (not diminished), or you look drained, sallow or grey – any of these are not good at all. The colour isn’t balancing with your features and is reflecting, or casting the colour to your face and making you look unwell, tired or washed out.

Mistake two

Assuming that a glow underneath the chin is flattering. A ‘glow’ doesn’t mean ‘glowing’ and will likely mean that the colour is reflecting underneath your chin.

Mistake three

You feel like you need to add more colour through your makeup because you’re trying to balance the colour that you’re wearing. The reality is that the colour isn’t the right tone for you which is why you feel the need to ‘add’ colour artificially through your makeup.

Mistake four

After checking the colour of your veins, you’ve either established that they are blue, green or purple. Whatever colour your veins are isn’t actually a reliable indicator to be able to assess if you have a warmer or cooler skin tone. Your blood is red after all.

What to look for instead

Whatever colour you’re wearing, the effect should be positive. You deserve to look and feel good!

You should look healthier, glowing, have clearer and brighter skin. Your eyes will sparkle and people will comment on how well you look. They may ask if you’ve lost weight or done something different with your hair.

The most accurate way to assess the colour against your features is to use fabric. Hold it underneath your chin because you want to see how it looks against your skin tone. Assess if the colour balances and harmonises with your features. The colour won’t jump out at you (if it does this is often an indicator that it’s not quite the right shade for you). You should be wearing the colour, not the other way around. The human eye looks for balance.

How to get it right

If you have self-diagnosed yourself or you’ve had a go at an online quiz or using a filter and you’re finding that you’ve been following the rules stated but it’s still not working fully, chances are, it’s not quite accurate enough for you.

Consider having a professional colour analysis to determine the right colours, the right tones and the right shades for you.

A colour analysis isn’t about being restrictive or prescriptive and telling you what to wear. It should be enjoyable as a journey because you get to learn how to choose and wear colours that you know flatter you and make you look good! This will in turn, help you to feel good inside too.

That’s what I talk to my clients about when they come for a colour analysis consultation with me.

Get in touch to book your appointment and learn what suits you.

How does getting my colours done help me build a sustainable wardrobe?

Posted on by Toni Carver

I’ve talked about the benefits of getting your colours done before. Clients tell me all the time how easy it is for them to shop when they know their colours and, how they save money because they no longer buy things that don’t suit them.

When I first had my colours done many years ago now, I found the same. Even now, I can still walk into a store, look at the racks and I don’t even walk over unless I spy colours that I know will suit me. Some of my clients have a picture on their phone for any impulse trips when they haven’t got their fabric swatches with them so they don’t make mistakes.

Consider Pre-Loved

Of course, this alone won’t build a sustainable wardrobe. It’s about the choices that you make. If you’re making fewer mistakes and buying less items as a result of knowing your colours, this will help you build a more sustainable wardrobe. New clothes don’t need to be brand new either. Pre-loved is huge now. Charity shops, Vinted and EBay have hoards of clothing and you’ll find lots being sold with the tags still on! Just search BNWT (brand new with tags) or BNWOT (brand new without tags). There’s also swap shops and clothing exchanges in most cities now if you prefer physical browsing and you can still take your swatches with you too!

Repair, rewear, recycle

Patrick Grant on The Great British Sewing Bee was instilling the virtues of repair, rewear and recycle recently. All things we frequently hear are essential elements to building a more sustainable wardrobe. Whilst I do have clients who do these things, not everyone can or will. On Instagram (8 June), they shared three statistics:

  • The average person buys 60% more clothes than they did 15 years ago (and wears them for half as long)
  • The equivalent of one bin lorry full of clothing is dumped in landfill or burned every single SECOND
  • The fashion industry produces and sells a staggering 100 billion garments every YEAR

I took to google to ask “how many people live in the world”? The answer was 7.888 billion (2021), which is 12-13 garments for every person. Essentially that’s one clothing item every month.

Building a more sustainable wardrobe is something which many people aspire to, but over-consuming ‘fast fashion’ is the challenge given the over-production. It can simply be too tempting! There’s a reason there’s so many ‘bargains’ in the sale rail! Remember it’s only ever a bargain if you actually wear it. Consider not just the cost of the item, but the cost per wear.

Introducing Sam

Sam booked my Complete Colour Analysis consultation because she wanted to be more sustainable with her future clothing choices. She wanted to make fewer mistakes and know that what she bought suited her.

Her wardrobe wasn’t particularly colourful because she didn’t feel she knew what colours worked for her. She wasn’t afraid of experimenting, but felt she needed more guidance and understanding so she didn’t keep making the same mistakes. Sam wanted a more coordinated wardrobe so she could make more outfits from fewer things.

After her session, she told me that she felt much more confident about future shopping purchases knowing that what she did buy would suit her and that she had her swatches to help guide her.

Colour analysis concerns

One concern with having a colour (or a style consultation) is that you’ll need to get rid of all your clothes and start again! This isn’t something which I recommend (nor is it sustainable and something I’ve covered previously). I guarantee you’ll have things hung up which don’t suit you, but then you probably knew that already.

During a colour consultation I talk you through how to wear your colours. It’s not just what colours to wear as there’s so many different shades and fabric choices. Understanding how to wear things you may already have which aren’t your best colours is important too. This could be dying them, keeping them away from your face or ensuring you wear something more complimentary close to your face such as a scarf or another top underneath. Knowing the ‘rules’ and how to apply them is all part of the journey!

Too many clothes

Most people admit they have far too many clothes in their wardrobe. They also tell me they only ever wear a fraction of the clothes in their wardrobe. When I ask what the reason is for not wearing these clothes, they often tell me that they don’t fit. Or that they don’t know how to wear them. Or they used to wear them, but now not so much. Which begs the question – why keep them?

Whatever the reasons for keeping hold of things we don’t wear, the feeling of overwhelm every day is hard to overcome. It’s often why people ask me about creating a capsule wardrobe. I get the attraction – imagine having a smaller collection of clothes, which can be worn in multiple ways to create more outfits. Yet, the fear of not having ‘enough’ clothes often stops them. But how do you measure too much? Everyone is different which is why I don’t believe in setting a number on how many clothes you must have. It’s pointless in my view! What you need depends upon how you spend your time, what your style preferences are and of course your budget. Know what suits you and you’re half way there to building that sustainable wardrobe. All you have to do is take the steps to create it.

Learn your colours by booking a colour analysis consultation.

If you’re ready to create your own capsule wardrobe but need some guidance, check out my Capsule Wardrobe Masterclass here.

WIll you tell me to wear bright colours?

Posted on by Toni Carver

Firstly, it’s not for me to tell you what to wear! I’m not your mother and you’ve made a decision to come for advice. My aim is to arm you with the right information so that you can put it into practice when you leave your session with me.

What many people don’t realise is how many shades of colours there are. Just because it’s a colour, doesn’t mean it has to be bright.

The features of a colour

All colours have features to them and during a colour analysis consultation, I’ll explain more about colour theory and the Munsell System which I use in my colour consultations.

Colours which compliment your features and characteristics will naturally brighten your overall look. You’ll look healthier and your eyes will brighten. Dark shadows, discolouration or those that wash you out aren’t complimenting your features and don’t bring out the best of you. In simple terms, this is the impact of a colour against your features and it can be good, or not quite so good.

The combinations of colours together can also change the impact and appearance of the colour.

Take this example.

A light and a dark colour together such as black and white, will create a high level of contrast between the two shades.

Whereas if you ‘dull’ the shades down slightly making them off-white and grey, the contrast will be less severe and less harsh. There will be less contrast between the light and dark shade.

Some people are better suited to having more contrast, others not quite so much.

Your fabric choice can also affect the colour too. Choose something shiny like satin and it will brighten the appearance of the colour because it reflects the light.

Fifty shades of grey

For someone who feels afraid of colour, or that they’ll stand out too much, a colour analysis may feel daunting. It’s worth noting that there isn’t just one shade of neutral either. Fifty shades of grey there may be, but have you ever tried to get the same shade of navy, camel or white??

Within everyone’s palette is a range of neutral and a range of colours. By understanding the fundamentals of how colour is made up and how this refers and impacts on your own characteristics, you can use this understanding to make better buying decisions.

The consultation and swatches

A basic colour analysis assess your core, or dominant colouring type and you’ll take away 30 shades of colour most suited to you based upon your core features.

However, this is refined even further during the Complete Colour Analysis consultation. Your sub-dominant colouring types are analysed (your secondary and tertiary types) which takes you to 48 shades in your swatches. The range of colours included will have different elements and features which harmonise with you and who you are.

Yes, there may be brighter shades than others but ultimately, it’s all about how you wear them. That’s what you’ll learn during your colour analysis consultation.

My services are an investment in yourself after all.

Book your colour analysis consultation today!

toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk

how to wear yellow

Spring colours – how to wear yellow

Posted on by Toni Carver

I’ve been talking about colour and style trends lately as April is the month I introduce my seasonal updates. You can find more details here. Invariably, yellow always comes up as a discussion point.

Usually in spring, we see more yellow in the shops – perhaps because the sunshine and better weather is on the way.

I’m often asked how to pick the right shade of yellow and to wear it successfully which is the subject of this blog.

Different shades

If you haven’t had a colour analysis consultation then it can be much harder to get this right. You might have very little colour in your wardrobe or find it difficult to identify if a colour suits you or not. Try and experiment with different colours to identify the shades of colour that appear to light up your face (making you look brighter), and those that appear to dull or cast shadows onto your features (making you look tired or unwell).

When you’ve had your colouring type analysed, this task is much easier for you! You know your best shades of colour and you’ve got your own coloured swatches to refer to. These are a helpful guide when shopping but, bear in mind that fashion houses will create different dyes and mixtures. You may have even created your own colour if you regularly dye your own clothes! (visit this blog for my own colour experiment).

There’s never just one shade of a colour. Think of yellows and I’m sure you can think of two or three different shades; daffodil yellow, sunshine yellow and ice-cream vanilla immediately spring to my mind. Not every shade of yellow will look great on you. Just like every shade of blue, red or purple will.

If you’ve read this blog about colour analysis, I refer to an artist called Alfred Munsell. His system of colour categories helps to identify and describe colours and that there is more to colour than just, well, the colour.

Think about how you’d describe your features and how you describe colours. What are the words you use? This can help you focus on finding and identifying the right colour or combination of colours to wear.

For each core colouring type I’ve detailed some brief guidelines on choosing and wearing the shade of yellow which will compliment you the best.

Colouring types and combinations

how to wear yellowLights: Keep your look light and delicate wearing with similar light and pale shades. Think light primrose or buttermilk and wear with taupe. Try and avoid overpowering colours and high contrasting combinations. If you have a warm undertone then you may find yellow easier to wear.

Deeps: Your look is strong so make sure you add depth with your yellow such as a daffodil or ochre. Wear with a richer shade like navy to create some contrast and depth.

Warms: You suit many shades of yellow and will be one of the easiest colours to wear. Think mustard or primrose and wear with olive.

Cools: This won’t be a natural or easy choice as yellow undertones aren’t as flattering for you. Opt for an icy yellow with an element of coolness and wear with contrasting shades like grey. You may find it easier to wear away from the face so it’s not directly reflecting up onto your features.

Clears: You’ll always look your best in bright, vibrant colours so think canary yellow and team with strong, contrasting shades like red.

Softs: As your look is more softened, the same can be said of your colours. A yellow which looks like it has been faded by the sun will work even though it’s not in your swatches. Wear your colours tonally with similar mid-tone depth of shades like pewter. And, if you find it tricky, wear it away from your face.

I have previously recorded videos on how to wear colour including yellow. You can visit it here.

Knowing your colours

Understanding how certain colours and combinations make you look tired, pale or unwell whilst others make you look vibrant, healthy and younger can take time to establish. It’s often tweaking to a different shade of colour to suit you better.

When you have ‘your colours done’, you’ll gain a greater understanding and how to wear colour. By gaining this knowledge, it will help you to build a colourful, coordinated wardrobe which can be mixed and matched easily.

It really is life-changing so if you would like to book an appointment, get in touch with me: Toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk or schedule a call with me using the link at the bottom of the page.

nine ways to add colour

Nine ways to add colour to your wardrobe

Posted on by Toni Carver

Wearing colour is so easy!

So, in this video, I’m going to show you how easy it is to add colour to what you wear.

I’ll show you nine simple ways that you can try out for yourself.

Which one will you try and wear??

Watch it here.

  1. Choose a top or a dress (in one of your best shades of course)
  2. Choose a pair of shoes or some boots
  3. Wear jewellery such as a necklace or even earrings
  4. How about a corsage or a colourful brooch (you could even wear it in your hair)
  5. Choose a handbag
  6. A colourful pair of gloves
  7. Wear a lipstick or lip gloss (in your best shade of course)
  8. Choose a scarf
  9. How about a hat?!
three ways to combine colours from your swatches

Three ways to choose and combine colours using your swatches

Posted on by Toni Carver

One of the questions I get asked a lot is how to wear your colours when you’ve had a colour consultation. With so many colour options in your swatches, it can feel overwhelming. Whilst we go through this in your colour session, it’s easy to forget. Sometimes it’s nice to have some inspiration too!

There are many combinations you can choose but much depends upon your own individual style and look you want to achieve as well.

In this video, I’m sharing three ways that you can use your swatches to help you choose and combine your colours together. Whether you have 30, 42 or 48 swatch wallet, I’m sharing different methods of using the colours in your swatches.

The demonstration uses my own clothes and swatches to help explain the methods.

Take a look and watch it here.

three colour challenge

Colour challenge: three ways to wear colour

Posted on by Toni Carver

If you’re feeling a bit fed up then fear not! Let me take this opportunity to boost your mood with my simple colour tips. Consider it a dose of some TLC!

Wearing colour has such a profound impact. Not just upon how you look (eg. brighter, younger, tired, youthful) but also how you feel and your mood. Trust me; it really can help to boost your mood and those around you too.

Maybe you had your ‘colours done’ (aka had a colour analysis consultation) in the past. Perhaps you have absolutely no idea what I’m banging on about. Or, are you up for experimenting with something new? Whatever your reasons, why not get involved and give these a try?

I’ve put together three simple ways and methods of introducing colour or adding colour in what you wear.

My only rule (well it’s not really a ‘rule’, just advice I give all the time: choose a shade of colour that you know makes you feel good on the inside. (I’m all for looking good on the outside, but it’s that feeling good bit I recommend you focus on).

If you prefer to watch my video on Youtube, click here.

1. Colour Pop

Colours by Ell sneakers This is the easiest way to start experimenting with colour. So, if you’re either not used to wearing colour at all, or you fancy trying something new then this one is for you.

Think of this more as adding a splash of colour to your outfit.

Choose just one colour to wear on it’s own as a method of injecting some colour to your outfit.

Most importantly, it could be anything! Perhaps a top, a bag, shoes, socks, earrings, a hat or even a scarf. Any colour you like as you’re simply going for a ‘pop’!

Here I am wearing a pair of Sneakers from Colours by Ell who stock a range of shoes and colours available to suit your colouring type.

 

2. Column of colour

Colour columnYour next challenge is wearing just one colour this time from top to toe. It could be a top and trousers or a skirt.

You don’t need to be too matchy-matchy with your chosen colour here (unless you’re a classic or city chic personality type). Tonal shades will work just as well together as does wearing one colour.

Interestingly, this is also a great way to dress if you’re on the petite side or if you wish to appear slimmer. A column of colour adds vital inches to a small frame and can make you appear visually leaner.

In this example it’s a simple jumper and jeans combo both in damson.

 

3. Colour drench

Depending upon your style personality type; this may feel rather daring!

With this colour challenge, everything you wear will be in the same colour – including your accessories. You’re drenching yourself in colour!

A great way to make this feel less daunting is to mix up your textures and fabrics. If you’ve not had a style and shape consultation, make sure the fabric you choose highlights your good bits. Adding chunky knits and bulk with layers upon layers of clothes will just add pounds to your frame. Should you carry weight around your tummy or bust for example (or you don’t want to showcase them), avoid bulk and texture in the area.

Here I have two examples for you. One in purple and one blue where textures and fabrics and shades of colour are slightly different.

 

That’s your three ways to wear colour!

It’s my favourite way to dress: in colour. Colour makes you FEEL GOOD and that’s why I like to wear it! My colour and style sessions are available as part of a programme as well as individual sessions both online and in person. If you’re ready to book, get in touch and I’ll help you on your journey!

Cmb colour of the year 2021

Colour me beautiful 2021 colours of the year

Posted on by Toni Carver

Delighted to bring to you two new colour me beautiful Colours of the Year for 2021.

If you’re looking for some colour inspiration and longing for spring time garden shades, here’s two colour me beautiful shades which are very wearable and will instantly update your wardrobe. Both feature in the new colour collections.

Orchid

Orchid

This is a cool pink shade therefore those of you who have a cool undertone can wear it with confidence. If your secondary or sub type is cool then here’s a few tips on how to wear this new colour. Should you have a warmer undertone then scroll down to Olive Grove.

Lights

This is a lovely shade that will complement your colouring perfectly. Wear on its own or try mixing with a lighter colour from your palette, such as Icy Pink.

Deeps

Add a deeper shade from your palette such as Dark Teal to balance out your strong look.

Clears

You will find that you need to add a stronger colour to Orchid due to your look. Try wearing it with Plum.

Softs

Wear tonally to complement your blended look. Jade works as a nice combination.

Cools

If you’re a Cool dominant colouring type, you can enjoy wearing this colour on its own. Also try to create new looks by combining it with deeper shades in your palette.

Olive Grove

Olive grove

This is a warm green that anyone with a warm undertone or secondary sub dominant can wear successfully. If you have a cool undertone, scroll up to see Orchid.

Lights

Keep your look delicate by combining it with Buttermilk.

Deeps

Wear with a strong shade such as Mahogany to balance out your look.

Clears

Add contrast to Olive Grove with a lovely Zingy Lemon shade.

Softs

Try and wear it tonally to complement your blended look such as with Peach.

Warms

Those of you as a warm core colouring type, you can of course enjoy wearing this colour on its own, but create new looks by combining with your other warm shades.

Orchid and Olive Grove are part of 12 new colours introduced by colour me beautiful in the latter part of 2020. There are six new colours to compliment your colouring type and can be added to your current fabric swatches on a new colour card.

To obtain your six extra fabric swatch card and a guide to how to wear and combine them with neutrals in your palette, click here for warm and click here for cool.

How to wear colour workshop

Colour assessment workshop – 23 January 2021

Posted on by Toni Carver

Join this workshop to discover how to wear colour in your clothes and makeup with confidence and to enhance your overall look!

The session will take place virtually from the comfort of your own home so you’ll need a laptop, smart phone or tablet to be able to join the session.

You will learn:

– The benefits of knowing what colours suit you the most
– How to wear colour to make you look younger and healthier
– Simple tips to make colour work for you
– What your core colour type is

A colour card and list of makeup shades are included which will be posted out to you following the session.

You’ll be required to supply some photographs ahead of the session for individual assessment.

Everyone can wear colour, it’s simply about finding the right shades.

Buy your tickets here.

How to wear colour image

Client showcase – how to wear colour

Posted on by Toni Carver

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people tell me ‘they have nothing to wear’!

Of course, most people, especially women, feel like this. And it’s also not always because they have no clothes; it’s more the fact that they don’t feel like they have the right clothes for them.

We‘ve all felt a little lost in what to wear this year. Colour is the easiest and simplest way to boost your mood and feel good, but choose the wrong shade for you, and it can have the opposite effect.

Recently, I asked some of my clients if they’d be willing to send me a picture of them looking and feeling fabulous wearing their best colours so I could create a video. Using real women and real people to help me demonstrate how positive and uplifting colour can be and how amazing you can look and feel when you know what suits you.

This video showcases just some of my clients who agreed to take part and I’m very grateful that they agreed.

Don’t they look fabulous?

Click here to watch

How to wear colour video series

Posted on by Toni Carver

Welcome to a series of videos on how to wear colour!

It is so easy to wear colour. Not only can it transform your overall look but it really can boost your mood too! Not knowing or understanding how to wear colour is something that many people tell me they struggle with. Sometimes you can’t put your finger on why something does or doesn’t suit you.

As an image consultant, my colour consultations are by far my most popular session. These are available Online; from the comfort of your own home for when we can’t meet in person as well as in person at the studio in Wakefield, West Yorkshire.

If you don’t know what colours to choose, or how to wear them, then these videos give you some tips on how to do so and also why it can make such a difference.

Check them out here and if you have any questions, do get in touch.

How to wear yellow
How to wear purple
How to wear blue
How to wear green
How to wear red
How to wear pink
How to wear neutrals 
How to wear black

Colour to boost your mood

How to wear colour to boost your mood

Posted on by Toni Carver

Colour has been found to have a profound impact on our mood, as well as how we look.
For me, colour is the easiest way to update your image. It doesn’t require lots of money or time, just a little understanding. It’s also one of the most rewarding and favourite elements of my job as an image consultant.
This feels like a good time to share some tips on wearing colour so that you can feel good in spite of what’s actually going on.

Your appearance

You make a visual statement about how you view yourself in what you wear. It reinforces your self image as when you know you look good, it’s this confidence that shines through. When you don’t feel quite so good about yourself, this can be evidenced in exactly the same way.
At the current time of writing, there’s a global pandemic as a result of the Coronavirus and many people are either working from home or isolating themselves.
Just because you’re sat at home and not seeing anyone, it doesn’t mean that you can’t feel good in what you wear. Plus, thanks to technology, many people are having virtual meetings and as good as your PJs are, what impression does that give to your boss, colleague, business connection or client?
Be honest. When you sit there in your comfies, as lovely as you feel, it doesn’t exactly heighten your mood does it? I love comfy, but I just ensure that my loungewear are in colours which suit me so that I can look good as well as feel good!

Colour

The human eye requires balance and harmony. With your appearance, this is achieved between your physical features and what you wear.
When you wear the right shades of colour, they will flatter, enhance and brighten your appearance. Choosing the wrong shades of colour will cast shadows and age you and nobody wants that!
There’s only so many colours which exist – everyone can wear colour it’s simply identifying which shades work best for you and your physical characteristics.
Here’s a few popular colours and psychologically, the impact on not just yourself, but others too.

Red

Psychologically, wearing red gives an air of confidence and being in control. Red is the colour of energy so it’s a great colour to wear if you feel like you need some energy to approach your day. Perhaps even a bit of red lippy 💋
Be careful though as it is also the most assertive, aggressive and attention grabbing of colours. Think of the colour of the stop light at the traffic lights.
Getting the undertone right when wearing red is crucial as if you’re cooler with no warmth in your hair or skin tone then you’ll need a blue based red. If you have these warmer tones, then you’ll be much better suited to a yellow based red.

Blue

Seen as safe, peaceful and logical and it’s known to convey trustworthiness as our law and order officials have navy blue uniforms. Equally blues can be seen as cold, unemotional and unfriendly so they may not make the best impression with a new client.

Green

The colour of nature and is worn by the armed forces for camouflage purposes. It’s also seen as a calm and reassuring colour and wearing it can also demonstrate creativity and imagination so why not give it a whirl?

Black

Have you ever found that you just feel a bit down when you wear black? A mood-hooverer and who needs that right now?!
Whilst you may find it easy and safe to wear, it’s not the most suitable for everyone. I often find that people wear it as they aren’t sure what else to wear. They lack the imagination, time or know how and get trapped in black!
It’s a rather authoritative colour and appears not very approachable too, so in a business sense, could this be to your detriment?
If you find that this isn’t the most complimentary colour to wear, try introducing a coloured shirt, blouse, top or scarf.

White

The one colour which truly reflects light making it the ideal colour to wear in hot climates. Given that the majority of travel is currently at a standstill, perhaps best staying in the wardrobe for now?
This purity makes it hard to wear for most people though as in its purist form, it’s too harsh. Wearing an off white is usually more flattering.
It is clean and hygienic too!

Pink

Often seen as a feminine colour though it can suggest empathy, gentleness and compassion. Guys who wear pink demonstrate that they are comfortable with their masculinity. Something which could be really helpful in the current climate.

Purple

As a colour, it can indicate sensitivity and be spiritual. Some people have found it helps in meditation and can promote a sense of relaxation which I’m sure is something we would welcome.

Confidence

I often find that many people have lost confidence in what to wear or just don’t know what suits them which isn’t great for our self esteem. If you do find yourself with a bit of time on your hands, you might be tempted to do a bit of shopping from the comfort of your own home. If you already feel like you’ve got nothing to wear, shopping without any guidance or direction is likely to mean that you’ll end up with the same type of clothes that you’ve already got, or that they don’t work with other items you have in your wardrobe. You might also feel that they don’t suit you, or that you don’t feel like ‘you’ in them.
Don’t despair. This time will pass. But, try not to be tempted to buy what’s fashionable or simply because it’s there. Learn what what works for you and why, then all these bad purchases will be just that. Plus, they will no longer languish in the back of your wardrobe with the tags still on! You can finally stop wasting money on things you never wear!

The 2019 Pantone Colour of the Year is…

Posted on by Toni Carver

2019 is nearly here!

Pantone, like every year have announced what their colour of the year is for 2019.

In 2018 it was ultra violet. It was one of my faves as I love purple and find it such a versatile colour to wear. There are lots of different shades of purple out there too meaning there’s a shade out there for everyone.

When the Pantone Color Institute make their annual announcements, designers around the globe take note and we see trends emerge in the shops. It’s not always restricted to clothing or fashion, but household appliances too have been known to follow the trend!

Announcing Colour of the Year – 2019

Living Coral!

Pantone say it’s “an animating and life affirming Coral hue with a golden undertone that energises and enlivens with a softer edge. Sociable and spirited, the engaging nature of Living Coral welcomes and encourages lighthearted activity. Symbolising our innate need for optimism and joyful pursuits, Living a Coral embodies our desire for playful expression”.

We wear colour as a way of expressing ourselves – in our clothes and makeup. Wearing colour makes you feel good, look good (when wearing the right shade) and also boosts our confidence.

If you’ve been for a colour consultation and had your colours done in the past, then choose to wear the most flattering orange shades from your palette – use your colour swatch wallet to guide you.

Should you fall into our Warm category and warmer versions of the Light or Clear colouring types, you’ll be delighted!

Unfortunately, Coral won’t be in your palette for the rest of you, but if you do want to be ‘on trend’, then how about a new kitchen appliance?!

Makeup

Here’s my recommendations from our cruelty free, paraben free cosmetic range available in the studio or via my online shop.

Eyes

Peach – available as a single eyeshadow pot or as a refillable for our magnetic compact. Suitable for everyone except Cools – go for your pinky shades such ballerina pink, cotton candy, champagne or opal.

Lips

The obvious choice is our Coral Lipstick suitable for you Lights, Warms and Clears.

If you’re a Deep, why not try the Sheer rum or Sheer nutmeg lipstick as an alternative?

For you Cools, give Strawberry lipstick a try and for you Softs, Spiced Peach or Sheer breeze would be ideal.

Our Mango Lip Gloss is the perfect shade to co-ordinate with this ‘on-trend’ colour too which is great for you Lights, Deeps, Warms and Clears. If you’re a soft try Warm Sand lipgloss and for you Cools, it’s back to the pinks and avoid the trend all together I’m afraid as it’s just not for you!

If you would like to know the shades of colour which suit you best, why not book a consultation here.