One question that often arises in colour analysis discussions is: How does going grey affect a person’s palette? Transitioning to grey hair is a natural part of aging, and it can be a transformative and empowering experience. For some, it may mean a subtle shift in their wardrobe; for others, it might open up a whole new world of possibilities. While the core principles of their seasonal or tonal palette remain, there are nuances to consider to ensure their colour choices continue to flatter their complexion. Below are some guidelines for each season to help navigate this exciting transition.
WINTER: EMBRACING COOL CONTRASTSWinter individuals typically have deep, intense features with cool undertones. When they go grey, the change can be striking and elegant. Key Shift: Don't be tempted to go muted as the hair loses pigment. Contrast remains essential due to their striking eyes and cool undertones.
What to Avoid: Soft blacks may no longer be as flattering, and muted or warm tones should remain off-limits.
What to Embrace: Icy pastels and clear brights take center stage, bringing a refreshing clarity to their look. Bright pinks, blues, and icy whites will complement their new silver or white hair beautifully.
Best Palettes: As their hair turns silver-white, the Bright Tonal Palette becomes a powerful tool, emphasizing cool and clear colours.
SUMMER: LEANING INTO SOFT ELEGANCESummers exude understated beauty, with muted tones and soft features. Their transition to grey enhances their natural softness, but it also brings a few challenges.
Key Shift: Brown, a long-time staple in the Summer palette, may become less flattering as the hair lightens. Similarly, soft blacks may no longer work.
What to Avoid: Avoid shades that feel too heavy or warm, as they can overshadow the delicacy of a grey-haired Summer.
What to Embrace: Grey, blue, and violet hues become increasingly important. Shades like periwinkle, lavender, and soft navy add harmony to their look. Granite and light grey are excellent replacements for soft blacks as neutrals.
Best Palettes: Their palette remains within the Soft Summer or Cool Summer range, depending on their eye colour and overall contrast level.
SPRING: A NEW BRIGHTNESS
Springs are known for their vibrant, warm undertones and natural glow. When they go grey, they may initially feel like they’ve lost some of their warmth, but this transition offers new opportunities.
Key Shift: Brown, which has always been a grounding neutral for Springs, often becomes less flattering. However, this change allows them to explore brighter, more playful colour combinations.
What to Avoid: Rich browns might need to be retired unless the individual has brown eyes, which can still carry this colour effectively.
What to Embrace: Blues and purples become crucial, bringing balance and vibrancy to their wardrobe. Aqua, coral, and bright peach are still stunning. Mixing several bright colours together can elevate their look even further.
Best Palettes: Grey-haired Springs thrive in the True Spring or Bright Spring palette, leaning into cheerful and light-filled tones.
AUTUMN: A DRAMATIC TRANSFORMATION Key Shift: Browns, which have been a foundational neutral, may no longer flatter. Grey and blue tones step in as more harmonious choices. What to Avoid: Heavy reliance on browns without a balancing colour can dull their look, especially as their natural pigmentation fades. What to Embrace: Violet becomes an unexpectedly stunning addition to their wardrobe. If their eyes are brown, they can still incorporate brown, but it may need to be paired with grey for balance. As their hair becomes more silver, colours from the Deep Tonal Palette will look particularly striking. Best Palettes: Their transition might include elements from Soft Autumn or even Deep Autumn, depending on the level of contrast in their features. GENERAL TIPS FOR GOING GREY Stay True to Undertones: Grey hair doesn't change your skin's undertone. If you were warm-toned before, you'll remain warm-toned; if you were cool-toned, you'll still need cool colours. Experiment With Neutrals: Grey itself can become a neutral in your wardrobe, replacing browns or blacks that no longer flatter. Reassess Contrast: Grey hair often softens the overall appearance, so consider how contrast levels affect your wardrobe. A professional colour analysis can help refine your palette. Embrace Change: Going grey is a chance to refresh your style and rediscover your palette. Lean into the colours that make you feel confident and vibrant. The joy of colour analysis lies in its ability to evolve with you, celebrating each stage of life. Whether you're a Winter, Summer, Spring, or Autumn, the transition to grey opens up new avenues for self-expression and style. If this topic has sparked your interest, now is the perfect time to explore colour analysis further. What sets this program apart is the ongoing mentorship and support you’ll receive—ensuring that you never feel stuck, no matter where you are on your journey. This is your chance to join a program designed to transform your passion for colour into a thriving business with tools and techniques you can rely on for years to come. Don't miss out—this opportunity is only available for a few days! Click here to learn more and secure your spot now! Rediscover the joy of colour—your clients (and future self) will thank you!
Autumns are earthy, rich, and warm, with hair colours that often include auburn, chestnut, or golden brown tones. Going grey is a dramatic change for Autumns, as they lose the warm reds and browns in their hair.
Regardless of their seasonal or tonal palette, there are a few universal tips to keep in mind when adapting to grey hair:
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