Finding Your Personal Color | Spring Warm, Winter Cool, Summer Cool, & Fall Warm
Not sure what your personal color is? Let's find out together!
Have you heard of the term 'Personal Color'? If you're into K-beauty, you probably have! Basically, everyone has their own personal color based on the underlying tones of their skin, hair, eyes, etc., so there are certain colors that will match your skin tone better. This has been trending widely in Korea within the past few years and there are lots of places you can even get a personal color analysis done by an expert!
Warm Tone / Cool Tone
As you can see in the photo above, Red Velvet Irene is definitely a Cool Tone. She looks beautiful in both photos, but the combination of her makeup shades and hair color in the photo on the right compliments her natural complexion and highlight her features much better! On the left, her hair color and lip color are a bit too bright and seem to clash with her skin tone. This is a great example of how knowing your personal color can make a huge difference in your physical appearance!
While there are variations, these are the 4 main categories when it comes to personal color: Winter Cool, Summer Cool, Spring Warm, and Fall Warm. It’s super important to keep your personal color in mind when you’re shopping for K-beauty or getting your hair/nails done in Korea!
While it’s best to stick to makeup/clothing shades or hair colors that fit your personal color, there’s no rule that says you can’t venture out into other shades; personal color is more a matter of what fits you best. Most people are naturally aware of their personal color as they know what colors tend to look better on them after trial and error.
If you're able to have a more accurate idea of your personal color though, you'll be much more aware of what you should stick to or avoid. Not sure what your personal color is? No worries, let's find out together! If you'd like to book a personal color analysis appointment, click the link below.
Personal Color Analysis Reservations
Warm Tone v. Cool Tone
So what is the difference between Warm Tone and Cool Tone? Warm Tone consists of colors that have a yellowish undertone, while Cool Tone consists of colors that have a pinkish undertone. People that are Warm Tone match better with more earthy, toned-down shades like orange-brown, deep yellow, khaki, and reddish-brown. People with a Cool Tone, on the other hand, tend to match well with brighter shades of pink, lilac, blue, and pastels. Can you spot the difference?
In the picture above, you can see examples of some colors that match each of the 4 personal color types! There might be a certain color palette that you prefer over others; this is probably close to your actual personal color. So don't worry about having to change your entire wardrobe or makeup collection!
Knowing your personal color is just a way of helping you understand which colors match your natural tone better, which could save you some time at the mall when you're shopping and help you put together more aesthetically pleasing outfits and makeup looks!
How To Find Your Skin Tone
1. Observe your natural skin color, hair color, and eye color.
Check the chart below and see which side you relate more with to determine whether you are Warm Tone or Cool Tone!
Warm Tone | Cool Tone |
My skin has yellow undertones. | My skin has some redness. |
I can't easily see the veins through my skin. | I can easily see the veins through my skin. |
My skin gets tan easily in the sunlight. | I turn red or get sunburnt easily in the sunlight. |
Lighter hair colors are more flattering on me. | I can have a pretty dark hair color without it looking off. |
My eye color is brown, hazel, or green. | My eye color is black, blue, or gray. |
Gold jewelry looks better on me. | Silver jewelry looks better on me. |
2. Check the color of your veins.
If your veins are a shade of green, you are most likely Warm Tone. If they are a shade of blue or purple, you are probably Cool Tone! This is not a deciding factor though, and is just a way of seeing the natural tone of your skin.
3. Test different shades of makeup and clothing in natural lighting.
Again, most people are probably aware of their personal color based on their personal preferences and after trial and error. For example, you might not prefer wearing certain colors and find yourself gravitating towards the same shades of lipstick or eyeshadow because you know what looks better on yourself!
So, get out your makeup collection and take a look at your wardrobe and see which color palette they seem to match with! You can try on different pieces of clothing and test lipstick and eyeshadow shades on your skin under natural lighting to see how they may change your overall skin tone.
You might notice that certain colors brighten up your complexion, while others make your dark circles stand out more or make your features seem less prominent. Separate your clothes and makeup into 2 different categories, and with the clothes and makeup products that brighten up your features and complexion, you can come to a conclusion about what your personal color is! Let's take a look at a breakdown of the four different personal colors below!
Winter Cool Tone (겨울쿨톤)
If you are Winter Cool Tone, you are probably more on the pale side with darker hair and eye color. People in this category fit well with strong eye makeup and a bold lip color. Doing so can help bring out the features more and brighten the complexion!
ITZY's Chaeryeong went viral in Korea for how beautiful she looked after switching her makeup look to fit the Winter Cool palette, and actress Im Jiyeon, famous for playing Park Yeonjin from Netflix's The Glory, is trending on social media for having the ideal Winter Cool tone look! Check out the recommendations below for some options or see if you have any similar products!
Makeup Recommendations
Dasique Shadow Palette: 16 Violet Knit / WAKEMAKE Mix Blurring Eye Palette: 3 Forest Brown
For the Winter Cool Tone look, you need eyeshadow shades that have tints of cool pink, purple, and ashy browns. Try out these palettes that are popular for cool-tone makeup! Get the WAKEMAKE Palette on our online shop here!
Melixir Vegan Lip Butter: 7 Plum Peony / Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint: 28 Bare Fig
Lip color can be considered the most important part of the Winter Cool Tone look! Brick red, muted mauve, or purple-ish pink is a great way to go. We recommend these lip products!
Rom&nd See Through Melting Cheek: 3 Melting Lavender / Fwee Blusher Mellow: 5 Love Me Light
It's essential to pair a cool-tone lip with a similarly-toned blush! Cream-type blushes are popular in the winter because they are moisturizing & create a seamless look. These blushes are perfect to complete the Winter Cool Tone look! If you like the Rom&nd blush, go to our online shop to purchase it here!
Hair Color Recommendations
To really put everything together, you'll want a hair color that falls in place with the cool tone palette. Black, ash or khaki brown, or a dark blonde usually go best with the cool-tone look! You'll want to avoid any reddish browns or golden blond colors.
Clothing Color Recommendations
If you're a true Winter Cool Tone, these colors will look absolutely stunning on you. You can center your outfit around these colors or use them as a pop of color!
Korean Clothing Brands | Purchase
Spring Warm Tone (봄웜톤)
If you are Spring Warm Tone, you probably have hair with brown undertones and your skin is closer to a shade of yellow than red or pink. For those that fall in this category, rather than bold, dark colors, it's better to stick to lighter, peachy shades and soft browns. This will really enhance your complexion and complement your features more!
Girls' Generation (SNSD) Yoona is known to perfectly pull off the Spring Warm Tone look and is commonly referred to as a representative of this category. Actress Kim Yoojung, the main female lead in Backstreet Rookie and Netflix's 20th Century Girl, is also a great example of the Spring Warm Tone category, especially with her bright and youthful appearance. Check out all the recommendations we have below!
Makeup Recommendations
WAKEMAKE Soft Blurring Eye Palette: 3 Sunset Blurring / Peripera All Take Mood Palette: 15 Tulipology
These peach-toned, pink-brown eyeshadow palettes are perfect for the Spring Warm Tone look! You can use the lighter shades for a soft eye makeup look and the browns to emphasize the eye line. These palettes are both newly released, so definitely try them out!
Peripera Water Bare Tint: 2 Universal Coral / AMUSE Dew Velvet: 2 Salgoo
For Spring Warm Tone, the best lip colors to use are any shades of coral, orange, or beige! These colors will bring out the lips in a natural way, as they will match with your skin tone best! Try out these beautiful lip tints to perfect your spring look! You can purchase the AMUSE tint on our site here!
FEEV Hyper-Fit Color Serum: No Makeup (Soft Peach) / Rom&nd Better Than Cheek: W03 Apricot Milk
Blush might be the most important aspect for people that are Spring Warm Tone! Again, peach or apricot tones will work best to brighten your skin tone. The right shade of blush will really make the biggest difference in your overall look, so don't skip out on it! These blush products are currently very popular in Korea, so we recommend you try them!
Hair Color Recommendations
For hair colors, you'll want to avoid anything too extreme as a Spring Warm Tone, as the category is generally focused on light and bright colors. Therefore, it's best to stick to a neutral brown color, such as dark brown or caramel brown. You can go as dark as black if the undertones are brown, but you'll want to avoid jet black or muted colors with ash tones. Curious about more spring hairstyles? Check out our blog on 2023 spring hairstyle trends in the link below:
Korean Hair Salons | Reserve Here
Clothing Color Recommendations
Don't the colors above just scream 'Spring'? These warm and bright colors are perfect for those that are Spring Warm Tone and we recommend picking up a top or light sweater in one of these colors on your next shopping spree!
Summer Cool Tone (여름쿨톤)
Those that have Summer Cool Tone likely have a fair complexion with pink or grey undertones. People in this category tend to shine with makeup choices that complement their natural cool undertones but can also go for more bold looks with brighter summer colors. Soft and subtle makeup can enhance your features and give your complexion a radiant glow.
Celebrities like Son Yejin from Crash Landing on You, known for her timeless beauty, and Red Velvet's Irene, admired for her elegant style, are great examples of individuals who embody the perfect Summer Cool Tone appearance. If you're seeking makeup recommendations to suit your palette, consider the following options!
Makeup Recommendations
Dasique Shadow Palette: 23 Summer Coral / CLIO Pro Eye Palette Air: 03 Mute Library
For the Summer Cool Tone look, you'll need eyeshadow shades that either have bright corals and light pinks, or you could go for a more muted look with ashy browns and shades of lavender. Try out these newly-released palettes from Dasique and CLIO that are recommended for those whose personal color is Summer Cool Tone!
Dasique Juicy Dewy Tint: 14 Peach Crush / Espoir Couture Lip Tint Blur Velvet: 03 Peony
It's important to match your lip color to your eyeshadow, so if you've gone for a brighter summer look, opt for similar shades of coral, pink, or bright red. For a calmer, muted look, try a color similar to the shade Peony from Espoir's Couture Lip Tint Blur Velvet line!
Hince True Dimension Glow Cheek: Blush On / Glint Baked Blush: 06 Balletcore Pink
Blush can really make or break your look, so you want to match your blush shade as well. You can go for a more glowy look with a cream-type blush such as the Hince Glow Cheek, which has a shimmery finish. The shade Blush On is a bright pink that will suit the Summer Cool Tone look well! You could also try lighter, pastel tones of pink.
Hair Color Recommendations
If you want to complete your look, here are some hair color recommendations we have for Summer Cool Tone. Black and dark brown are best for a muted, natural look, but if you want something bright that sticks out more, ash pink or ash blonde would fit perfectly! As long as you stay away from any warmer colors with red or orange undertones, you'll be fine! Check out some hair salons you can book in Korea in the link below:
Clothing Color Recommendations
For your wardrobe, these colors can truly highlight your Summer Cool Tone features! Soft pastel shades like green tea, periwinkle, and light blue can enhance your cool undertones. Remember, the key to the Summer Cool Tone look is embracing soft, cool shades that accentuate your natural beauty and create a harmonious ensemble.
Fall Warm Tone (가을웜톤)
People in the Fall Warm Tone category typically have a warm complexion with golden or peachy undertones. People in this category tend to radiate with makeup choices that complement their natural warm undertones but can also experiment with bolder looks using rich autumnal colors. Subtle makeup can enhance your features and give your complexion a warm, inviting glow.
Celebrities like BLACKPINK's Jennie, known for her unique beauty and luxurious style, and actress Lee Sungkyung, admired for her versatile acting skills and beautiful light brown eyes, are great examples of Korean celebrities who embody the perfect Fall Warm Tone appearance.
Peripera All Take Mood Palette: 03 Honey Brown / Lilybyred Mood Keyboard Love all Edition: 07 Rose Dial
For the Fall Warm Tone look, you'll want eyeshadow shades that either feature warm, earthy tones like terracottas and burnt oranges, or you can opt for a more dramatic look with deep browns and shades of olive green. Try out these newly-released palettes from Peripera and Lilybyred that are recommended for those with Fall Warm Tones!
CLIO Crystal Glam Tint: 11 Mellow Fig / Peripera Ink Mood Glowy Tint: 20 Brown Yakgwa
It's very important to coordinate your lip color with your eyeshadow. For a bolder autumnal look, go for similar shades of deep red, rich brown, or warm plum. For a softer, more natural look, consider more nude, muted shades! These lines of lip tints from CLIO and Peripera are already loved by many, and have just added new fall colors to their collections. Definitely add these to your shopping list!
Laka Love Silk Blusher: 709 Dolce / Dasique Blending Mood Cheek: 09 Almond Vanilla
For blush, it's best to opt for blushes that have underlying warm tones of red, orange, or brown. One thing to make note of when it comes to blush is that you don't want to overdo the warm-toned look with too much of the same tones! Professional makeup artists recommend layering a soft coral pink over a brown or orange toned blush to soften the overall look. We recommend these blush products from popular K-beauty brands Laka and Dasique!
Hair Color Recommendations
If you want to complete your look with a new hair color, we recommend medium brown or wine red to best suit the Fall Warm Tone palette. It's best to stay away from extreme colors with underlying cool tones such as platinum blond or pastels that could easily wash out your complexion. If you'd like to get your hair done in Korea, book an appointment here!
Clothing Color Recommendations
In terms of clothing, it's best to choose colors that embrace the warmth of your Fall Warm Tone features. Rich, earthy tones like golden yellow, olive green, and warm brown can complement the natural warmth of your complexion and your makeup look.
English Personal Color Analysis Services
Since Personal Color is such a huge trend in Korea, there are many places where you can get your personal color analyzed by an expert, who will test out how different colors affect your complexion using color drapes. Many foreigners like to try this service out when they visit Korea, but it can be difficult to find a place that has English-speaking services. Here are a few popular spots we've compiled in case you'd like to try getting a personal color analysis while you're here!
Keep in mind that these places are very popular amongst foreigners, so it can be difficult to get a reservation on short notice, as there are only a few spots open per day.
1. Color of You
Color of You is a popular personal color consulting service that offers services to foreigners in English, Chinese, and soon Japanese as well!
They are super accurate and detailed with their color analysis procedure and describe why certain tones do or don't match your natural skin tone.
The analyst will even test different colors of jewelry on your skin and take a look at your personal makeup products and let you know which ones fit you best! Make a reservation on Creatrip using the link below and get a discount!
Opening Hours: 11:00~21:00
Available Reservation Times: 11:00 / 14:00 / 16:00 / 18:00
Duration: About 2 hours
Available Languages: Korean, English, Chinese (Monday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday), Japanese (in preparation)
Address: 3F Yong Pyeong Building, 209 Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
서울 마포구 동교로209 용평빌딩 3층 컬러오브유
2. Damppeum Personal Color Analysis
Damppeum has two locations, one in Hongdae and one in Seongsu! They offer personal color consulting in English, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese. They are known to be very detailed in their analysis and foreigner-friendly!
The facilities are very clean and modern, and provide private spaces for consultation! There are two options for consultation, Basic Color Focus, which includes personal color analysis only, or Premium Color & Styling, which has the basic course and includes clothing styling tips according to body type.
If you'd like to make an appointment at Damppeum, you can click the links below to book your personal color analysis at either Seongsu or Hongdae!
Seongsu Branch
Hours: 11:00-20:00
Available Reservation Times:
Color Focus (Basic): 11:00 / 12:30 / 14:00 / 17:00 / 18:30
Color & Styling (Premium): 14:00 / 18:30
Duration: 1-2 hours
Available Languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese (in preparation)
Address: 54 Achasan-ro, 3rd Floor, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
서울시 성동구 아차산로 54, 3층
Hongdae Branch
Hours: 11:00-20:00
Available Reservation Times:
Color Focus (Basic): 11:00 / 12:30 / 14:00 / 17:00 / 18:30
Color & Styling (Premium): 14:00 / 18:30
Duration: 1-2 hours
Available Languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese
Address: 3F, 47, Wausan-ro 29-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
서울특별시 마포구 서교동 번지 3층 333-6
3. Image HO Personal Color Analysis
At Image HO, not only can you receive a personal color analysis, but you can also learn how to analyze yourself, so you'll be able to fully understand the results! You can also receive consultation for clothing and cosmetics in three categories: best, second best, and worst.
They use a detailed booklet to explain color theory, which you get to keep after the diagnosis, so you can refer to it later!
You even get to participate in the analysis by using the booklet like a workbook, as they provide these fabric color chips that you can attach in the book and use for reference later. They even make recommendations for jewelry, hair color, and makeup!
Hours: 10:00-19:00
Available Reservation Times: 10:00 / 13:00 / 16:00 / 19:00
Duration: 1-2 Hours
Available Languages: Korean / English / Chinese / Japanese (only on weekdays)
Address: 4F, 30-9, Apgujeong-ro 10-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
서울 강남구 압구정로10길 30-9 4층
4. Zini B Personal Color
At Zini B, you can get a personal color analysis and even learn how to do your makeup accordingly!
Zini B is a beauty youTuber with nearly 200K subscribers, and she has accredited makeup and personal color certifications, so she is highly qualified! There are also interpreters available, providing services in English, Chinese, and Japanese.
If you get the option that includes the makeup class, you can get your makeup done professionally and even try it yourself with guidance!
You can even get your hair done in a recommended style according to your face shape for the complete look! It's truly a unique experience. To book an appointment at Zini B, click the link below!
Hours: Everyday 10:00 - 20:00
Available Reservation Times: Everyday 10:00 / 13:00 / 16:00 / 19:00
Available Languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese
Address: 4F, 212-9, Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
서울 마포구 동교로 212-9 4층
Personal Color Analysis Reservations
We hope this helped you understand more about your personal color! What's your personal color? Let us know in the comments below! If you have any questions or concerns, please leave a comment below or send us an email at help@creatrip.com. You can follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook to stay updated on all things Korea!
Sources: Hailey Daily
