Discovering our True Colors: A Personal Color Analysis Experience
As self-proclaimed fashion aficionados, we thought we had a solid grasp on which colors and styles best suited us. But when the buzz around color theory and seasonal styling started trending on social media, our curiosity got the better of us. Could this trend offer fresh insights? We decided to find out by booking a personal consultation at iColorMe Studio in the heart of Koreatown, Los Angeles.
In South Korea, personal color analysis has long been a go-to for those looking to refine their personal image. It's only recently that this insightful practice has gained traction in the U.S., drawing in fashion enthusiasts eager to elevate their style game.
Booking our session was a breeze. We reserved our appointment online with a 50% deposit and received a prompt email confirmation. The email included detailed instructions: arrive with no makeup, bring everyday makeup products, avoid glasses or colored lenses, and skip turtlenecks, collared shirts, or hoodies. These steps, especially arriving bare-faced, ensure an accurate analysis.
On the day of our appointment, parking was hassle-free thanks to the free garage below the building. Esther, the owner, welcomed us warmly into her intimate, beautifully decorated studio. With over 8 years of experience in the fashion industry, Esther’s journey into personal color analysis is as inspiring as it is relatable. She shared how her friends and family often told her she had an "eye" for fashion and makeup, encouraging her to pursue a certification in makeup artistry. However, COVID disrupted her plans. A friend's experience with personal color analysis led Esther to explore this field further. Determined to excel, she traveled to Korea, where she earned certifications in personal image and personal color from Color Place, one of the most prestigious institutions in the country.
The Consultation: A Deep Dive into Color Theory
We started by filling out a worksheet detailing our style preferences, how others describe our style, the colors we frequently wear, and our goals for the session. As we worked, Esther evaluated our makeup products, noting they were mostly warm-toned. Our session would reveal if we had indeed selected the right products for our skin tone.
Next, Esther introduced us to the four seasonal color palettes: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. Her presentation brought each season to life with mood boards capturing its essence—light and cool for Summer, elegant and luxurious for Autumn—along with scents, styling tips, and examples of Korean celebrities who embody each season.
The centerpiece of our session was the fabric swatch analysis. Seated in front of a full-length backlit mirror, flanked by ring lights, we could see every detail as Esther held up fabric swatches in a myriad of colors. This part of the session was incredibly detailed and precise, as Esther carefully evaluated how each color interacted with our skin tone. She didn’t just focus on whether the color looked “good” or “bad”; instead, she explained the nuanced effects—some colors brightened our complexion, making us look more vibrant and awake, while others dulled our appearance, emphasizing shadows or making us look tired. Esther’s keen eye also identified the moods each color brought out—whether it was a sweet and soft vibe or a bold and sexy look.
Esther’s approach went beyond simply determining our seasonal category. She took into account our unique features and overall image, ensuring that the final assessment was as personalized as possible. The session wasn’t just about finding flattering colors; it was about understanding how different hues could enhance or detract from our natural beauty. By the end of this process, we had a clear understanding of our primary and secondary seasons, along with a newfound appreciation for the subtle power of color.
Back at the table, Esther delved into our results. She identified our best and second-best colors, and showcased a Korean celebrity who embodied our primary season for styling inspiration based on her look. We then used the final worksheets to identify which shades to embrace or avoid. Esther recommended makeup products and jewelry materials that complemented our season, and we even tried one of her suggested lip shades, which was a perfect match.
Within a week of our session, Esther sent a detailed recap, including a list of recommended Korean and non-Korean beauty products tailored to our newfound color palette. This thoughtful follow-up ensured we had everything we needed to implement her expert advice.
Final Thoughts: An Enlightening Journey in Personal Color Analysis
Our session at iColorMe Studio was a true eye-opener, even for those of us who thought we had our color palette figured out. Esther’s deep knowledge, paired with her personalized approach, made the experience both educational and enjoyable. The insights we gained—about colors we had previously overlooked or misjudged—were invaluable. The session was not just about discovering new colors; it was about refining our personal style with a deeper understanding of how color influences our overall image.
Esther’s post-session follow-up further enriched the experience. Whether you’re a novice in personal styling or someone with a strong fashion sense, a personal color analysis at iColorMe Studio offers something new to learn and apply. We walked away with not just a better understanding of color theory but also a renewed confidence in how we present ourselves to the world. Highly recommended for anyone looking to elevate their personal image!