Color Analysis is having a moment. But Color Analysis is just one small part of your signature style.
Last week we talked about reading the artistic elements in your favorite images. Today we’ll discover how your natural preferences often align perfectly with your body’s design. If you’ve ever felt confident about an outfit choice and then talked yourself out of it, this article is for you.
Several years ago, when I was working as a conventional personal stylist, something was missing. I knew there had to be an easier way to help women show up looking and feeling like who they actually are. When a college friend heard me describe this vision, she immediately said ‘That’s exactly what I want!’ But as I was figuring out how to make this more accessible, I had an epiphany. While I’d always used inspirational images in my work, I realized that starting with them – before we ever talk about body types or style rules – creates a completely different experience. It’s less stressful, less intimidating, and reveals so much about a person’s authentic style essence. They find it makes shopping fun!
Let me show you exactly what I mean. I want to share a detailed analysis of just two images from this client’s collection…
INTERPRETATION (What These Images Reveal):
- Values both structure and organic flow
- Appreciates thoughtful curation rather than rigid rules
- Drawn to natural beauty but likes it refined
- Comfortable with contrasts (delicate/strong, soft/structured)
- Resonates with gentle strength
- Seeks harmony between relaxation and organization
- Values authenticity over perfection (wabi-sabi aesthetic)
(Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that embraces the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and authenticity. It finds beauty in simplicity and naturalness, appreciating things that are “perfectly imperfect.” In style terms, it might mean appreciating the natural texture of a fabric, the graceful aging of a leather bag, or the way clothes adapt to and honor the body’s natural form rather than trying to force perfection.)
APPLICATION (Translating to Wardrobe):
- Keep clothing fits relaxed
- Incorporate both soft and structured pieces
- Use nature-inspired color harmonies
- Embrace asymmetry in outfits
- Choose fabrics with natural textures
- Look to resort wear for inspiration (refined but relaxed)
- Include functional elements (like pockets) in relaxed pieces
- Combine ethereal elements with structured pieces
Here’s what the client said:
“Rebecca really helped me understand my style and how to shop for what I will actually wear. I feel a lot more beautiful and confident in my clothes now because they compliment my features and she helped me see the beauty in my own unique body.”
This kind of deep insight is exactly what we’ll be exploring in my upcoming Signature Style Studio program this January. Over four sessions, we’ll start with essential style concepts you can use right away to create better outfits with what you already own. While you’re implementing these practical techniques, you’ll also be gathering your collection of inspiration images. In our final session, you’ll have the opportunity to share your images with the group, and afterward, you’ll receive your own Essential Signature Style Guide – a comprehensive, 30-page reference guide that outlines your unique Style DNA and the styles that work for you.
Think of it as your personal style manual – something you’ll use every day to help you make outfits and choose colors and styles when you shop.
To get started, purchase your Essential Signature Style Guide today! Or save $$ on the guide and color analysis too!