When building a wardrobe or planning your outfits, accent colours can bring depth, vibrancy, and a personal touch to your look. Choosing the right ones for your seasonal palette ensures harmony and enhances your natural colouring. Whether you follow seasonal colour analysis or simply want to refine your style, here’s how to pick the perfect accent colours.
5 Tips for Selecting the Ideal Accent Colours to Complement Your Seasonal Palette
1. Understand Your Base Palette
Your seasonal palette—whether Spring, Summer, Autumn, or Winter—has a core set of colours that complement your natural undertones. Before selecting accents, ensure you are familiar with your best neutrals and dominant hues.
(Learn more about your seasonal palette HERE)
Spring: Warm, clear, and fresh shades like peach, coral, and golden yellow.
Summer: Cool, soft, and muted pastels like dusty rose, lavender, and periwinkle.
Autumn: Rich, warm, and earthy tones like mustard, teal, and terracotta.
Winter: Bold, cool, and contrasting shades like fuchsia, emerald, and sapphire blue.
2. Consider the Mood You Want to Convey
Accent colours can change the feel of an outfit. Do you want to exude energy, sophistication, or calm?
Bold accents (e.g., red, cobalt, or violet) create drama and confidence.
Soft accents (e.g., blush, sage, or powder blue) evoke femininity and ease.
Earthy accents (e.g., rust, olive, or ochre) feel grounded and natural.
3. Use the 60-30-10 Rule
A well-balanced outfit typically follows the 60-30-10 rule:
60% base colour (e.g., neutral like navy, camel, or grey)
30% secondary colour (a coordinating colour from your palette)
10% accent colour (a pop of contrast through accessories, scarves, or shoes)
4. Leverage Prints and Patterns
Patterns can naturally introduce accent colours without overwhelming your look. If your palette leans cool, try a floral print with subtle lilac or icy pink. If warm, opt for geometric designs featuring burnt orange or honey yellow. Take into account the size of the pattern - don’t overwhelm your petite frame.
5. Incorporate Accessories Strategically
If you're hesitant about vibrant accent colours, start small:
Jewellery: Statement earrings, beaded necklaces, or metallic accents.
Shoes and Bags: A bright handbag or fun-coloured flats can liven up neutral outfits.
Scarves and Hats: Lightweight scarves are perfect for introducing accent shades near your face.
6. Adapt for Seasonal Transitions
Your accent colours don’t have to be static. Rotate them slightly with the seasons while staying true to your palette:
Spring to Summer: Transition from coral to watermelon pink.
Autumn to Winter: Swap mustard for deep gold or ochre.
7. Trust Your Instincts
Colour analysis provides a framework, but your personal style matters. If a colour brings you joy and enhances your complexion, embrace it!
By choosing accent colours wisely, you can create a wardrobe that feels cohesive, expressive, and perfectly suited to your unique seasonal palette.
Ready to Elevate Your Style?
If you need help refining your seasonal palette or choosing the perfect accent colours, I’m here to guide you!
Book a personalised colour consultation today and unlock the full potential of your wardrobe.
Enjoyed this article? Make sure to sign up to my newsletter for more tricks, tips, resources, and insights for your best petite style (scroll down for the form).
Comments