Photo: Szymon Brzoska / The Style Stalker
If you grew up looking to your mother for style wisdom, she likely told you at one point that a certain color was simply not good for your skin tone. In 2018, this way of viewing fashion might seem a bit outdated, but the truth remains that there are colors out there that do flatter you more than others. It's even likely that you have one color, in particular, that you've figured out makes you look your best.
As it turns out, there are a few colors that are universally flattering, no matter the natural coloring of your hair and skin tone. To find out what colors look best on all of us, Real Simple tapped into the ultimate say on all things color-related: the executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, Leatrice Eiseman. She shared that there are four colors above all that she thinks look good on everyone. Why is that? “Certain colors flatter all skin tones and hair colors because they provide an equal balance of warm and cool,” Eiseman says. So, which tones are the magic ones that suit us all?
To discover which colors look best on literally everyone, scroll down to see the street style looks that prove it and then shop our picks of each color so you, too, can embrace this universal wisdom.
1. Blush
Photo: Collage Vintage
Blush is a universally flattering shade that also happens to bring out the natural flush in your face, no matter your skin tone.
Photo: @itsmekellieb
Photo: Style du Monde
WHO: Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert
WEAR:Prada shoes; Gabriela Hearst bag
2. Eggplant
Photo: Style du Monde
WHO: Carolina Issa
WEAR:Ayede shoes; Roksanda bag
Eggplant is such a versatile shade, Eiseman says, that it can take the place of a more classic neutral in your wardrobe. This makes it easier for you to start introducing a little more color without going overboard.
Photo: @shionat
Our eggplant pick:
3. Red
Photo: @bettinalooney
Ah, red. This classic shade complements every skin tone on the spectrum, and it’s great street style photographer bait—if you’re into that.
Photo: Style du Monde
WHO: Julia Sarr-Jamois
Photo: Collage Vintage
WHO: Teddy Quinlivan
4. Teal
Photo: Collage Vintage
Teal can be a tough color to start introducing into your wardrobe; the trick is wearing it in ways that feel comfortable to you. Or take a page from the Man Repeller’s book and mix it up with contrasting colors like red.
Photo: @nnennaechem
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
- Explore More:
- Looks
Related stories
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast and expert with a keen eye for style trends, I've closely followed the evolution of fashion over the years. My deep understanding of the industry is underscored by a commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments. In this context, the article you've presented explores the timeless concept of color in fashion and its universal appeal across different skin tones and hair colors.
The author, Meghan Blalock, delves into the enduring belief that certain colors can flatter individuals more than others based on their natural features. To substantiate this claim, Blalock seeks insights from Leatrice Eiseman, the executive director of the Pantone Color Institute—an unquestionable authority in the realm of color. Eiseman's expertise in color theory lends weight to the assertion that specific colors possess a universal charm by providing an "equal balance of warm and cool."
Now, let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
-
Blush:
- Described as a universally flattering shade.
- Brings out the natural flush in one's face, irrespective of skin tone.
- Street style looks featuring blush are showcased as evidence.
- Recommended pick: Prada Cutout Charmeuse Mini Dress.
-
Eggplant:
- Considered a versatile shade that can replace classic neutrals.
- Facilitates the introduction of more color into one's wardrobe.
- Street style featuring eggplant is highlighted.
- Recommended pick: Staud Sabrina Jacket.
-
Red:
- Acknowledged as a classic shade that complements every skin tone.
- Red is noted for being popular among street style photographers.
- Street style looks featuring red are provided.
- Recommended pick: Who What Wear Puff Sleeve Midi Dress.
-
Teal:
- Acknowledged as a challenging color to introduce to one's wardrobe.
- Suggested approach: wear teal in ways that feel comfortable or mix it with contrasting colors.
- Street style looks featuring teal are referenced.
- Recommended pick: Eckhaus Latta Gather Sleeve Bodice Top.
The article, with its insights from a recognized authority in the field of color, coupled with visual evidence from street style looks, offers a compelling narrative about the universality of certain colors in fashion. This information serves as a valuable guide for readers looking to enhance their wardrobe with colors that are not only stylish but also universally flattering.
