Read this if you're still not sure about colour analysis - from the expert

Believe it or not, colour analysis is not a fictional concept; colour can have a huge impact on how we look, how we feel, and how others perceive us. When we get it right, we’re able to tackle everyday adventures with a new-found confidence.

Cast your mind back to that time you wore a striking occasion dress that filled your day with compliments, or the time you wore a particular shade of blue that made you feel a million dollars. On the flip side, you can doubtless remember a time when despite your best efforts, your outfit just felt wrong, and you look back at photos and wonder what you were thinking!

If, despite that, you’re still not convinced about investing in the process, or you’re simply not sure if it’s for you, who better to advocate for the power of colour analysis than the most successful US colour analyst we know, Karen Blanc. After a decade in the industry, Karen has transformed the lives of thousands of women around the world.  On her recent visit to Kettlewell, we sat down with Karen to discover the real reasons you should be investing in colour analysis. 

Karen visits our brand new Colour Studio and chats with Melissa, Jo, and the stylist team over tea and biscuits

What’s your advice to someone who is sceptical about colour analysis?

I actually love a sceptic, because I can win them over throughout the process of a colour analysis session. I love watching peoples’ mindset change as they witness it for themselves.

I think people feel that I’m simply going to tell them what works without them fully comprehending it, but the reality is they’re actually seeing it on themselves; they see as clearly as I can, whether their colouring is warm or cool, and they’re seeing as clearly as I can that they need brighter colours or more softer, earthy colours. 

Karen's powerful before & after demonstrates the power of wearing her best (Spring!) colours

Colour analysis is often expensive - is it good value for money?

I am kind of amazed that people are sceptical about the cost; I remember the first time I had my colours done – afterwards, I went out shopping, and I noticed that the cost of the consultation was less than I could even do for a single outfit.

I think colour analysis is the smartest thing anyone can do; go into your closet, add up the cost of all the things that still have tags on them, or that you’ve only worn once or twice, and I bet it’s more than the cost of a colour analysis session. And the knowledge of colour, you will use for a lifetime, since your personal colouring doesn’t change. It is so time & energy saving. 

Do you think colour analysis is worth it for someone who favours neutrals & minimalism?

Probably more than anybody! Even a simple neutral will become more elegant when the colour is honouring you.

I know it’s very popular and contemporary to be clothed in neutrals, and one of the things I like to tell clients is to switch your neutrals first. So if you need bright White, make sure all your Whites are cool, clear, bright Whites. If you need Cream, transfer them to Creams. The ability to wear a single colour or toning shades head-to-toe when they are in your colour palette is enchanting, even if they're neutrals. 

Elegant top to toe neutrals Soft Camel Cashmerino Cowl | Stone Lauren Jersey Trousers

How would I start shifting my wardrobe over to a new colour palette, on a tight budget?

Personally, I think that 10% of your income is an appropriate amount to spend on a wardrobe. Budgeting is going to enable you to buy everything you need in that process; you’ll stop making botched purchases, and start making informed choices when you’re shopping.

After colour analysis you can start really considering and investing in nicer clothes, better quality clothes, and you’ll need fewer of them, because everything in your closet will coordinate. So a budget is really ideal; over time you’ll be able to buy the most rewarding items – it’s a process.

Start with a pop of colour! Flamingo Pink Classic Camisole | Regatta Blue Willow Scarf | Aqua Leaf Print Infinity Scarf | Blue Jewel Tassel Necklace | Warm Coral Classic Leather Belt

How will I use the knowledge I’ll gain from colour analysis in my own wardrobe?

The first step will be to be brutally honest about which colours are being represented in your wardrobe. You’ll need to physically separate your clothes, which is important to see the colours that are actually in your palette, and how all these colours work together.

Anything that doesn’t work, I would encourage you to wear-out, give away, sell, recycle, give to a mission… and over time, build your new wardrobe that sits within your palette. Even if you had all the time, money and assistance in the world, you couldn’t flip your closet in a New York minute, because you’re going to be dependent on what the designers are doing, the colours stores have and you have to be patient. But with Kettlewell that’s actually not true, this is the wonderland for really being able to start out with some beautiful pieces that you know are right for you. 

Karen's request for a structured sleeveless top inspired the Karina Top, which is now her favourite!