By Francesca Cairns Image Consultant

Winter is a striking season in colour analysis, known for its crisp, cool, and dramatic tones. This season is divided into three distinct sub-seasons: Cool Winter, Deep Winter, and Clear Winter. Each sub-season features a unique set of characteristics that help individuals determine the most flattering colours for their wardrobes. By understanding these sub-seasons, you can elevate your personal style, boost your confidence, and ensure your wardrobe enhances your natural features.

Disclaimer:
Please note that these are general guidelines based on common characteristics associated with each sub-season. Everyone is unique, and it is possible to have any eye colour or hair colour and still fall into any of the Winter sub-seasons. Colour analysis is a personal process that takes into account multiple factors beyond just eye and hair colour, including undertones, contrast levels, and overall complexion. For the most accurate results, it is best to have a colour analysis done by a professional.

1. Cool Winter: Embrace Crisp, Cool Tones

Cool Winter individuals typically have a cool undertone to their skin and often sport darker hair with hints of ash. The key to choosing the right colours for Cool Winters lies in understanding the importance of sharp, cool shades.
Key Characteristics of Cool Winter:

• Skin Tone: Cool undertones (pink, blue, or violet).
• Hair: Ashy tones, dark brown to black hair.
• Eyes: Cool blue, grey, or dark brown eyes.

Best Colours for Cool Winter:

• Black & White: Bold and contrasting, these high-contrast colours are perfect for Cool Winters.
• Cool blues and greens: Navy, cobalt, emerald, and teal are ideal.
• Icy pastels: Pale pink, lavender, and icy blue work well without overwhelming the cool undertones.

Cool Winter individuals should avoid earthy tones like orange, yellow, and warm browns, which can make their complexion appear sallow or washed out. Instead, choose cool neutrals and bright, crisp shades to complement your natural colouring.

2. Deep Winter: Bold and Intense
Deep Winter is all about bold contrasts, richness, and intensity. This sub-season shares many traits with Cool Winter but tends to be deeper and more saturated in tone. People in the Deep Winter category often have very dark hair and deep, rich eye colours.
Key Characteristics of Deep Winter:

• Skin Tone: Cool undertones, ranging from fair to deep.
• Hair: Dark brown to black hair, often with a cool or neutral undertone.
• Eyes: Dark brown, deep blue, or black eyes.

Best Colours for Deep Winter:

• Deep, Dark Shades: Charcoal grey, black, and midnight blue are perfect for creating striking contrast against the skin.
• Rich Jewel Tones: Deep emerald, royal purple, and ruby red enhance the dramatic contrast.
• Cool Reds & Pinks: True reds, raspberry, and fuchsia highlight the cool undertones.

Deep Winters should steer clear of light or pastel colours, as they lack the depth needed to create balance. Instead, rich, deep hues will enhance the bold features characteristic of this sub-season.

3. Clear Winter (Bright) : Bright and Crisp Contrasts
Clear Winter individuals have vibrant and striking contrasts between their skin, hair, and eyes. This sub-season often features people with very light or very dark hair, and they thrive in colours that are clear, bright, and crisp.
Key Characteristics of Clear Winter:

• Skin Tone: Cool undertones with a clear, porcelain-like complexion or deep cool tones.
• Hair: Dark, vibrant hair (jet black or cool dark brown) or very light, platinum blonde.
• Eyes: Bright, clear eyes (such as ice blue, clear green, or deep brown).

Best Colours for Clear Winter:

• Bright, Clear Colours: Think of crisp white, cobalt blue, and pure red.
• High-Contrast Neutrals: Black, white, charcoal, and navy work perfectly to maintain the dramatic effect.
• Vibrant Jewel Tones: Sapphire, ruby, and emerald stand out without overwhelming the natural vibrancy.

Clear Winters should avoid muted, soft colours like dusty pinks or soft browns, which can dull their striking features. Instead, focus on bright, bold, and contrasting hues that bring out the brightness in your eyes and hair.

Understanding Your Sub-Season: How to Choose the Right Colours for You:
While all Winter sub-seasons share cool undertones and an affinity for high contrast, they each offer a unique set of colours that can transform your wardrobe. To determine your sub-season, consider the following tips:

• Look at Your Skin Undertone: Are you more pink, neutral, or golden? This can help you narrow down your season.
• Examine Your Hair Colour: Is it ashy or warm? Dark or light? This will guide you toward the right sub-season.
• Assess Your Eyes: The colour and depth of your eyes play a significant role in your seasonal palette.

Once you’ve identified your Winter sub-season, you'll be empowered to curate a wardrobe filled with colours that enhance your natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the sharp contrast of Cool Winter, the bold intensity of Deep Winter, or the vibrant brightness of Clear Winter, choosing the right hues can completely transform your personal style.

Conclusion Winter colour analysis is a powerful tool for understanding which colours will complement your features and make you shine. By identifying whether you are a Cool, Deep, or Clear (Bright) Winter, you can create a wardrobe that perfectly reflects your personality and enhances your natural beauty. With the right colours in your palette, you’ll feel more confident and stylish every day. Embrace the season and let your true colours shine!

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