subject: Best colors for dark complexions [print this page] Best colors for dark complexions Best colors for dark complexions
As a professional make-up artist, image consultant and an African American woman with a honey colored complexion, I can say it is truly a wonderful thing that women of color can wear colors that would wash a less pigmented skin tone and cause them to look drained or tired. However we should always choose colors with great care.
How often do we see dark skinned women wearing very bright colors that may not show their beautiful deep tones at its best, or may cause them to look ashy or even silly? How often do we see very light women of color making the same color choices as those with comparable Caucasian skin colors? Though these women may be the same shade as Caucasian women because of richer undertones, we can not always wear the same colors and expect the same results.
I would strongly advise women of color to choose colors based on hair, eyes and skin tone. Though you may be able to wear most any color, do not select colors that are simply adequate. Choose colors that make you shine and look your absolute best! There is no one size fits all approach. Consider which outfit you get the most compliments in; is it that chocolate brown blouse, teal tank top or that rusty red pantsuit? Experiment with colors and see which ones work best for you. A quick guideline is provided below:
If you have darkest brown eyes, dark brown to black hair and dark to medium skin tones select colors that are vivid for instance, white instead of ivory, or black instead of brown, or a cherry red as opposed to an orange red.
If you have warmer colored eyes, medium brown or reddish hair with a medium to lighter skin tone you should select colors that may be muted such as chocolate browns and tans, warm oranges and rusty reds.
If you have pale eyes, light skin and hair with either blondish or reddish highlights you will look best in colors that have a warm base and a light shade such as ivory, rose pinks, soft yellows and lilacs.
Women of color should avoid neon colors or excessively bright shades of any color. If a color is questionable (do yourself a big favor) err on the side of caution and leave it behind. We are created in brilliant and beautiful tones of every shade from the fairest beige to the richest cocoa. Feel beautiful and look your best, celebrating and showing them off at their finest.
