Have you ever had the shopping experience of looking at a killer outfit on the hanger, only to put it on and just feel blah? This could happen because the color of said outfit is washing you out without you even realizing it. Depending on whether you have fair, medium, or dark skin—and whether your skin tone has warm or cool undertones—there are very specific hues that will highlight your coloring. To help you figure it all out, we consulted fashion stylists. Ahead, they share the best clothing colors to brighten your specific complexion.
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How to determine your skin undertones:
How to Find Your Skin Undertones, According to Beauty ExpertsShutterstockExperts say the easiest way to determine whether you have warm undertones or cool undertones is to look at the veins on the inside of your wrist: If they're more blue or purple, you're likely cool; if they're more green, you're probably warm. Some people might fall in between and be considered neutral.
Another simple way to figure out your skin undertones is the "wedding dress test" (this also works with white/off-white t-shirts). If you look best in true, bright white, you're likely cool; if ivory is more your color, you're likely warm.
Sara Millecam, a master medical esthetician and founder at Lash Lift Store, previously explained to Best Life, "There are hints of blue, pink, or red in the cool undertones. Neutral undertones combine warm and cool tones, whereas warm undertones are yellow, peach, or golden in color."
Fair Skin + Cool Undertones
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In general, people with fair skin tend to look best in pastel colors, as they offer a less-harsh contrast.
"Fair skin with cool undertones often has pink or blue hues," Amanda Massi, a Los Angeles- and Las Vegas-based personal and celebrity stylist, tells Best Life. "Colors like soft pinks, lavenders, and light blues can brighten the complexion by adding a soft glow without overpowering the skin's natural pallor."
Certified image stylist Elizabeth Kosich, founder of Elizabeth Kosich Styling, is a fan of mint green for this complexion since it also helps the eyes pop. "Give it a try and watch how mint green works its magic to complement brown eyes, accentuate green and hazel eyes and contrast blue eyes," she shares.
Fair Skin + Warm Undertones
Consider color intensity and contrast, too.iStock"Fair skin with warm undertones might have a peachy or golden base," notes Massi. Therefore, she recommends peach, coral, or pale yellow clothing to "add warmth and vitality."
Kosich adds that wearing peach, either for clothing or makeup, "activates a tawny, golden glow in warm-undertoned people."
Medium Skin + Cool Undertones
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For medium, cool-toned skin, Massi is partial to deep pinks, berry shades, and cool greens. "These colors contrast well, making the skin appear luminous," she says.
This complexion can also pull off vibrant pinks like deep magenta, which is especially flattering with dark hair, notes Kosich.
Medium Skin + Warm Undertones
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To brighten the complexion of medium, warm-toned skin, consider golden yellows, warm oranges, or rich terracotta. "These colors harmonize with the skin's warmth, enhancing its natural radiance," explains Massi.
Or, go with coral-colored clothing, which Kosich describes as "not quite pink, not quite peach, and not quite red."
"Besides flattering any skin color, coral also delivers a touch of rosy cheeks and a splash of natural glow," she adds.
RELATED: The Best Colors to Wear If You Have Gray Hair, According to Stylists.
Dark Skin + Cool Undertones
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For this complexion, jewel tones reign supreme.
"Dark skin with cool undertones can be beautifully brightened by vibrant purples, royal blues, and emerald greens," shares Massi. "These colors provide a striking contrast, highlighting the depth and richness of the skin."
Or, to go really bold, Kosich suggests wearing fuchsia.
Dark Skin + Warm Undertones
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"For dark skin with warm undertones, deep oranges, mustard yellows, and rich reds are ideal," Massi explains. "These colors complement the skin's undertone, adding a warm glow."
Kosich recommends "dark and stormy burgundy" to both complement this complexion and make the lips pop.
Consider color intensity and contrast, too.
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To really nail the complexion-brightening effect, Massi also considers the contrast of her clients' features to arrive at the best color intensity for their clothing.
"Color intensity and contrast is basically divided between high and low," she explains. "High contrast clients with a stark contrast between their skin, hair, and eyes (like pale skin with dark hair) can pull off bold, high-contrast outfits. Think black and white or bright colors against their skin."
"Low Contrast are those with less contrast (like light hair with light skin), softer, less saturated colors or monochromatic looks often work better to avoid overwhelming their natural palette," she adds.
