Hello, Darlings! Today I am going to talk about the Color Of The Month -Exploring Red. As many of you know, I have been participating in the Kettlewell Colour Club on Facebook.
This group is open to anyone. For me, it has been a great way to learn and explore color. Some of the group members are extremely knowledgeable about color, several are even House Of Color or Color Me, Beautiful consultants. Many others are individuals, just like myself, learning how to incorporate color into their wardrobes.
Color Of The Month- Exploring Red
Color Of The Month (COTM) -Exploring Red
Each month in the Kettlewell Colour Club they highlight a Color Of The Month or COTM. Usually, a blog post is written, discussing the color, and talking about how each Seasonal Color Palette can wear it. Many of the colors not everyone can wear but this COTM, Red, is a color for all
According to color analysis, True Red is a color that fits in the center of the color wheel as a color that all seasons can wear.
Color Of The Month- Exploring Red, Subtle Changes Make A Difference
There are many shades of Red. If you prefer the warmer side of the Seasonal Color Palette, such as Autumn & Spring, you want to look for a Red that has more yellow.
For those who like the Winter (like me) & Summer Seasonal Color Palette, look for Reds with more blue added. The differences can be very subtle but make a huge difference in whether you like it or not.
Playing With Red In My Wardrobe
The whole color theory is so fascinating to me. Subtle differences such as warm or cool, bright or muted, and light or dark determine which color looks best against your skin.
I do not wear much red. Now I understand why! For me to wear Red (and like it) I have to find a red shade that has blue in it. This color is called Tango Red and is slightly bluer, less intense than True Red. For me, I just was not happy with wearing True Red.
Why Some Red Works And Others Do Not
Most of the Red in my wardrobe is designated to wear for holidays such as the 4th of July, Valentine’s Day, or Christmas. It is not something I would wear every day.
This poncho is one of my holiday favorites. I now know that the reason it works for me, and why I like it, is because the shade of Red has more blue tint in it and it is less intense.
Going even deeper in the Red palette with Rumba Red. This Red color has lots of “blue” added. Rumba Red has become a favorite of mine to wear during the fall instead of rust/orange.
Warmer Reds Are Not My Favorite
A slightly “warmer” Red, this top goes great with all my gold accessories. It may be a bit too warm for my taste, and why it seem to stay in my closet.
While this top, with a very subtle color change to with a bit more muted and bluer, is a favorite of mine. One of the few Red tops I love to wear.
Using Red As An Accent
For me, Red seems to take its place in my wardrobe as an accent color, a POP of color to bring contrast to an outfit. I really like contrast, and now I understand why. Winter’s (the Seasonal Color Palette) by nature look best with contrast. The contrast makes our features stand out.
Adding accessories such as gloves in Red is a fun way to play with the color. Not having to worry about it being the “right” shade.
Here is a scarf in Deep Claret, which is one of the bluest of reds. It balances beautifully with the Pine Green top. I feel very comfortable in this Red shade because it is deep in the Winter Seasonal Color Palette.
A much “warmer” red works as a POP of color with this coat on a rainy day.
Balancing The Intense Color Of Red With Lipstick
Red, for me, is such a strong color that I must wear lipstick to balance it out. If not, I will look washed out. Several different red lipsticks will work for me. My favorite is MAC Russian Red, but also MAC Ruby Woo is also recommended. Ruby Woo is supposed to be the “universally flattering” color for all. It is bold and very retro.
My “Red” Comfort Zone
Again, back in my comfort zone with the Rumba Red. The Rumba Red really works great with this “blue” Charcoal Gray.
Playing In Color
With the holiday parties all canceled, even our annual Christmas Eve Candlelight service is a no-go. As we are trying really hard to be responsible and keep from getting COVID while the hospitals are under such strain, I find I have lots of time on my hand to explore.
More Wardrobe Clean Out- Slow Process
I am going thru my closet, slowly, examining items, trying them on, and trying to figure out why I like it or not. Yes, Red is in everyone’s Seasonal Color Palette. But not all Red’s are the same. Knowing what looks good on you and why is a HUGE tool when purchasing. No wasted money and no mistakes!
Learn more about color in my post, How To Pick Clothes According To Your Seasonal Color Palette.
From My Family To Yours- A Very Merry Christmas
Congratulations, Regan, for being mentioned by several Colour Club members as a style inspiration in the 12 Days of Christmas challenge. Well deserved. Your entries were wonderful.
I am just beginning to wear dark red and have a love affair with KW’s beetroot and deep claret. I’ll be wearing my deep claret cowl for Christmas. In fact, lately I seem to wear deep claret, cassis and beetroot several times a week. I’ve promised myself that I will explore some blues in the New Year.
Merry Christmas🎄! Hoping it’s a healthy and peaceful holiday for you.
Thank you Kris for your sweet words. The Kettlewell Colour Club has been so good to me and for me. Not only have I met some really sweet and inspiring ladies, but I have also learned so much about color. Before this group, I would have NEVER considered colors such as beetroot, cassis, or deep claret. Now they will make up my fall/winter wardrobe. Deep beautiful colors I can wear and look good in. I can’t wait to see the new spring preview. My list is growing by the day. Lots of blues are at the top! It is like a whole new world has opened up. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas holiday!!
Regan