Which is the best green for me?

Green, the colour of renewal, of nature, of life. It's an uplifting shade and goes with a multitude of other colours. It can range from palest mint through to darkest pine, from softest olive to vibrant emerald. And you know what else? Most people hardly ever wear it.

You may or may not remember that Pantone's colour of the year this year is Greenery. Unlike 2015, when the colour of the year, Marsala, was absolutely everywhere, Greenery hasn't made quite the same impact. People just aren't as brave with green, in my experience.

I'd be willing to bet that this is because most of us have been put off by a negative experience with green, because when it's wrong, it's really really wrong. The right green can brighten and lift, whereas the wrong one will drag down, add shadows and insta-age the skin.

So which green should you be wearing, and how do you identify it? If you've had your colours analysed, just click on the seasonal links below for more information about your best greens and how to choose them. If you haven't had a colour analysis, why not start with Kettlewell's quiz, or read on for more information.

If you don't know your personal colour palette, your safest green is always going to be one with a hint of teal to it, which makes it a more universally flattering shade. If you want to go greener but you aren't sure if it suits you, just keep the colour away from the area directly under your face, or add another safe universal colour to help balance out any negative effect from the green you have chosen. The chances are, when it comes to green, you'll be able to see whether it works or not. If you try one and it doesn't, do persevere, as the right green is like wardrobe magic!

A safe feeling blue with a hint of greenish teal is a great tentative step into the world of greens. Go for Mallard, a universal shade that flatters almost all skin tones.

Kettlewell items shown: Short Cascade Wrap, Soft Square Vest, Suede Tassel Clutch

Light olive shades are usually everywhere in the spring/summer, so another easy green to try, as it won't stand out as a 'look at me, I'm wearing green!' shade. Pair it with a soft white tee, a fairly safe shade for most skin tones.

Kettlewell items shown: Mid Cascade Wrap, Silky Tee, Tassel Necklace

Ready to go bright? Pair a grass green with nature inspired neutrals to keep it boldly tropical but 100% stylish.

Kettlewell items shown: Mid Cascade Wrap, Fine Cotton Tee, Short Ruched Skirt, Tassel Necklace

Lisa Conlan on Mar 03, 2024 7:57 AM

Thank you for this article, so helpful as I don't wear green that often so this helps me to choose correctly and some lovely KW pieces too 😊

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