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We’ll cut to the chase—picking out clothes is tough. Figuring out what’s flattering for your body type to deciding which denim cut works best for your legs is basically a part-time job. Even though these clothing guidelines and suggestions can seem overwhelming at first, they’re sure to help ease your shopping and dressing process. Today we’re talking about which colors will work best according to your skin tone and hair color. We’re moving on from old-school color rules like “redheads shouldn’t wear red” or “blondes shouldn’t wear yellow,” because let’s get real, those color combos can be pure gold.
Below, we break down various different skin tones, the most common hair colors associated with those skin tones, and which clothing colors will compliment them. We also asked Siobhán Quinlan, Creative Director of New York’s Art + Autonomy salon for some insider tips.
But before you dive into figuring out the color of this week’s outfit, step one is figuring out your skin undertone.
An undertone is the complexion of your skin, and most people fall between one of three categories: Cool, Warm and Neutral. By understanding what your undertone is, it can help you discover the best shades of color to wear.
Now, what if you don’t identify with any of those or feel in the middle? You’re probably a neutral skin tone, which means you can wear either cool or warm tones—go, you!
Some general color guidelines based on your skin undertone are:

Best hair colors include: Platinum, ice/silver blonde, red, ashy blonde, champagne, gold, honey
Best colors to wear: Neutrals, pastels, jewel tones
“Something too dark or light (in hair or clothing) can sometimes feel harsh for everyday,” says Quinlan. “I tend to advise my clients to stay away from those extremes unless they are really going for more of a ‘look’.” You can add subtle contrast with darker neutral colors and jewel tones.

Best hair colors include: Red, dirty blonde, golden blonde, light brown, butterscotch, strawberry blonde
Best colors to wear: Lavender, seafoam green, blush, soft yellow, mint green, coral, ivory, peach

Best hair colors include: Golden brown, caramel, ash brown, dark brown
Best colors to wear: Olive, Purple, Mustard, Cranberry, Forest Green, Royal Blue, pink
Medium skin tones can wear darker, more bold colors without washing them out.

Best hair colors include: Golden blonde/brown, caramel, chocolate brown
Best colors to wear: Earth tones, green, orange, olive, blue, navy, pink, emerald, burgundy

Best hair colors include: Espresso, jet black, honey blonde (for warm tones)
Best colors to wear: Jewel tones, plum, white, orange, pink, yellow, ruby

Best hair colors include: Jet black
Best colors to wear: Jewel tones, white, fuchsia, yellow, royal blue, blush
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