Finding My Perfect Shades with Colour Theory

I’ve always been drawn to bold, confident colours. Give me a deep emerald green, rich navy blue, or anything with leopard print and I feel instantly more like myself. There’s something about wearing those darker, stronger shades that makes me feel grounded and powerful, maybe it’s because I’m quite fair, and pale colours just seem to drain me completely.

When I came across the new Guide to Seasonal Colours and read the Chums colour theory blog post, it all suddenly made sense. I’ve always known certain colours suit me better than others, but I didn’t realise there was a proper science behind it!

Discovering colour analysis

The guide breaks down something called seasonal colour analysis, which looks at how your skin tone, hair, and eye colour all interact with different shades. Using the Munsell colour theory (don’t worry, it’s less complicated than it sounds), colours are grouped into twelve “seasons”, each with its own palette that complements your natural colouring.

While I’ve never had a formal consultation, I’d guess I fall somewhere in the deeper seasons, like autumn or winter. I naturally lean toward dark jewel tones, deep reds, and forest greens, they balance out my pale skin and work beautifully with my dyed red hair. It’s funny how instinctively we sometimes gravitate towards what suits us without even realising why.

How it changes how you shop

I’ve always loved fashion, especially structured dresses with a statement feel, but even I’ve had those moments where a colour just feels wrong. You know when you love a style but put it on and think… something’s off? That’s usually the colour clashing with your undertones. Once you understand your palette, it suddenly becomes so much easier to spot what flatters you before you even hit the fitting room.

The guide also talks about how this applies to everyone, not just people who love experimenting with style. Even for men, using neutral shades as a base and adding one or two accent colours can completely change how an outfit comes together.

The psychology behind it all

One of the things I found most interesting was the psychology of colour. It’s not just about how we look, it’s about how we feel. Bold reds can make you feel powerful and confident; soft blues can calm your mood; greens can bring a sense of balance and connection to nature. I’ve definitely noticed this in my own wardrobe. When I’m feeling low on energy, I reach for a bright print or something structured that feels strong. On quieter days, I stick to rich, dark tones that feel comfortable and safe.

Colour theory really is like a little life hack. Once you understand which shades lift you up and which wash you out, it takes so much guesswork out of getting dressed. You feel more confident, more intentional, and more you.

If you’re curious about discovering your own palette, the Guide to Seasonal Colours is a great place to start. It’s full of helpful explanations and simple ways to figure out which colours truly bring out your best.

So next time you’re drawn to a certain shade, trust that instinct, it’s probably your season shining through.