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May 2012 Newsletter - Color: Don't Believe Everything You Read
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Conselle Fashion & Image Newsletter
From Image Expert,
Judith Rasband, AICI CIM
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| Dear (Contact First Name) | |
 Streets in my valley are lined with the beauty of new blossoms, flowers, and leaves -- I catch sight of pink and white, lavender and lilac, yellow and all tints of yellow-green and green against blue skies. The colors lift my spirits and hint of fresh, new beginnings. I'm glad I'm not a dog because dogs don't perceive color. How sad is that? It also makes me sad to get e-mail from readers who've been told they can't wear blue or red or black. More than that, it makes me mad because unknowing people believe it. Insecure about how they look, they give up wearing colors that once gave them joy. We all have a need to learn how color works; how it works in relation to the other elements of design--line shape, texture, and pattern--and how to use it on ourselves. All of this is timely because the topic of May's Newsletter relates to spring fashion trend reports and Conselle's Wardrobe Strategy #5, Color Selection and Coordination.
Sincerely,
Photo: Luckebabe Reflections
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Ask Judi | |
If you have an image issue that is getting in the way of accomplishing your goals, email me about it at judith@conselle.com. I'll do my best to get back to you with a solution that will help move you forward. Please include a contact phone number in case the answer is a bit long, so we can really talk it through. |
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Featured Article | Color: Don't Believe Everything You Read
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Photo: FashionMagazine.com
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Spring fashion trend reports are all over the internet as well as in fashion magazines. Being a consumer advocate, I'm here to say, "Be on your guard." Just because something appears in print doesn't automatically make it right or true. Watch out for the myriad of fashion and image writers and bloggers who think they've got it right, only for us to discover that they often contradict themselves. One fashion blogger recently wrote, "When wearing a monochromatic outfit, vary the texture(s) to keep it [the outfit] interesting." Two paragraphs later, she writes, "[When] wearing monochromatic outfits choose all smooth textures to create the ultimate elegant image. Think satin, crepe de chine, and suede."
Wait a minute, let's think on this a moment. Textured or smooth, which is it? And why does it matter? Satin is certainly smooth but crepe de chine and suede are actually textured materials. Monochromatic refers to a color scheme created with only one hue, generally a mix of lighter tints and darker shades of the same hue. Monochromatic color schemes can be very interesting if the outfit is designed with interesting style lines and shapes, and possibly lightweight layers--classic clothes with a collar, a shoulder yoke, tabs, pockets, and/or layered looks. It matters because most of us need people to regard us with interest, to view us as someone they might like to get acquainted with, be it for personal or professional benefit, or for both.
 | | Photo: Conselle on Polyvore |
The monochromatic outfit that really does demand a variety of textures is the one that repeats skin and hair colors such as light, medium, and dark gray or brown, beige, taupe, and tan. Both the person and the outfit are much the same color which can appear too bland. If the polo shirt or dress is plain and the layers all smooth someone really can look and feel boring. It's easy to overcome the color blandness with smart shopping. For him, the varying textures may include a linen-blend shirt with a silky smooth tie worn with a suede vest or jacket. For her, visualize a smooth silky blouse, worn with a cotton cable knit summer sweater, and an imitation pearl and chain necklace. And as I've written before, one texture must be dominant and all others less important. Both looks would hold positive attention.
I just received a Spring Trend Update from someone offering me another "color analysis using world renowned theories with results that will last a lifetime. Knowing exactly what colors suit you is key." Reading further she writes, "If I can give you one piece of advice it would be to embrace the latest color trend."
 | | Photo: dixandpond.wordpress.com |
"Results that will last a lifetime?" Not on your life. Color Me Beautiful consultants taught that kind of nonsense back in the 80s. It's been thirty years, during which time they've all realized that their personal coloring has indeed changed. We're taught that "knowing exactly what colors suit you is key," then to be told to "embrace the latest color trend?" Now there's the contradiction. The latest color trend may not exactly suit you at all. This Spring's color trends ofbright orange, chartreuse, and shocking pink, or dull taupe and pale yellow for everybody? Good luck. Color blocking in bold, bright hues is the "latest color trend," again, and it's being touted from coast to coast. Those colors in that kind of arrangement will overpower anyone with medium, muted, or soft personal coloring.
Hold on a second,let's look at that pitch again. "World renowned theories?" There are a lot of theories about color "out there" that may be renowned but are not worth your investment. Take Beauty for All Seasons offers, for example. Company reps once reported they had trained more than 400,000 color consultants. Where are they all now? Nearly all these consultants are out of business because the renowned theory is invalid and unreliable.
We need to think twice and three times before we buy into what's in print. We need to learn valid and reliable color theory and how to apply it to so it makes sense and works for everybody. For more key points about color analysis and personal color selection, read back over the May 2011 issue where I wrote about "Color Confusion." Do you know or remember what two colors virtually everybody can wear beautifully? Do you remember how to become part of the color scheme with your clothes? Check it out for the first or second time. It's all worth knowing for yourself.
To read related information about wardrobe neutral colors, selection, and coordination in dress and image, with instructions and examples regarding people just like you, order Conselle's wardrobe strategy Book #5, Color in Clothing Selection and Coordination for the reader's special of $19.97, rather than the list price of $27.97. To get the special discounted price, call call 801-224-1207 and order directly through Kathy. You'll find charts that will summarize the information and simplify your learning and application. Order Color In Clothing Selection & Coordination.
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| Timeless Truth |
 Many people confuse the word color with the word hue, some insisting in print that color is just another word for hue. It's not. According to physics, color is an umbrella word that embodies the three dimensions of color--hue, value, and intensity. Hue refers to the family of color--red, yellow, blue, green--and its degree of warmness or coolness. Value refers to the degree of lightness or darkness of a color. Intensity and saturation refers to the degree of brightness or dullness. Some people interpret the word "temperature" to be another dimension of color. It's not. Temperature relates to hue and its relative degree of warmness or coolness. This is truth and it still stands the test of time.
Next time you want or need to match a color, identify the relative degrees of hue, value, and intensity and it will be easier to recognize what matches.
Photo: NC State University
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Consumer's Corner
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 | | Photo: Pantone.com |
Don't get too caught up in the latest supposed color trends for 2012 or panic that the color you're looking for won't be out there this season. Nowadays we live in a world where virtually every color is available all the time, reflecting global color influences. When it comes to color, anything goes. Pantone may have announced 175 new colors in addition to their bank of 2100, but if we look closely, we'll discover that many of those new colors are simply lighter tints, darker shades and duller tones of the same hue--some so closely the same that you can't even tell the difference. Spring fashion is nearly always about bright clear colors more light than dark, but depending on the designer or brand, you'll find smoky nuanced neutrals and rich earthy tones from all around the color wheel. To locate clothes in a particular color, don't limit yourself to one store but do a walk-through of several stores. If the color you want isn't there, go online and look up fashion catalogs. You can request a variety of catalogs sent to your home to look through in the comfort of your favorite chair. When you find the color you want, it's well worth the price of shipping. If you like online shopping, that's another option. Simply Google the fashion color you're looking for. It's out there!
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Consultant's Corner
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According to Lucky Magazine, the hottest trend of the spring/summer season is color blocking! Color blocking is just that, blocks of color. It's not new but is getting tons of attention this year. While separate pieces of clothing in different solid colors may qualify as color blocking, it's more unique and engaging if the garment is designed with geometric blocks of color right in the design. I'm referring to graphic tops for men, and tops, skirts and pants, dresses, scarves, shoes, and bags for women. Color blocking is usually bold, out-going, dramatic, and attention getting, so it's not for every client. Consider carefully the client's personality, personal coloring, and body build. Bold color blocking can overwhelm a gentle personality and soft or pale personal coloring. Relate the colors closely to the client's personal coloring, with ONE color dominant and any others subo
rdinate by degree (See February 2012 Newsletter). Strategically position the blocks of color on the body in a flattering manner. You don't want them fighting with body curves nor drawing attention to body bulges. Color blocked clothing needs to be relatively loose-fitting so the blocks of color are not pulled awkwardly out of shape. Because the color blocked area tends to be the ONE dominant area of interest or focal point in the whole outfit, add just one classy color blocked garment or accessory to the outfit and go easy on everything else.
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Tips for a Fabulous Fit -- Dress Slim
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 | | Lela Rose Shoes via Payless |
When it comes to dressing slim, color is a great tool to use to your advantage. Attention goes to contrast, including color contrast. Therefore, put color contrast wherever you want to draw attention. If you carry extra weight around your middle, keep the color contrast up near your face and shoulders. Let the fabric fall smoothly over the rest of your body. Or for women with slim ankles but wide waist or midriff, on social occasions wear classy or fun-looking shoes in a surprise color.
Easiest is to wear are lightweight layers in contrasting colors--a pullover top or dress worn with a shirt jac, vest, or jacket open in the front. Attention is drawn inward, away from your silhouette and into the center-front opening, creating a slimming vertical line. It works for men and women, boys and girls. Whatever our age, dressing slim is an attractive option.
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In Closing
As I've said before, color is the most complex and controversial element of design. I hope my May Newsletters of 2011 and 2012 add to your knowledge and understanding of color. May they simplify your everyday use of color and fill your life with an element of joy.
Sincere Best Regards,
Judith Rasband
Conselle Institute of Image Management
801-224-1207
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Conselle Educational-Training for Image Consultants
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Attend Conselle's 15-Day Educational-Training to become a certified image consultant.
Receive comprehensive image education and materials to
launch a full-service image business.
A great image education is an investment you can never lose!
Next Spring Session
June 2 - 16, 2012
 | | Conselle Educational-Training group talking color |
Seating is limited, reserve your place today!
Rave Reviews for Conselle's Educational-Training:
"Required or not, learning from and working with Judith Rasband has always been high on my list. The curriculum developed by Judith is by far the most comprehensive educational program in the industry. Having trained with several of the world's best known image professionals, no other course delivers the same depth of knowledge as the one offered through the Conselle Institute of Image Management."
Diana Jennings, Costa Mesa, CA
"Outstanding! Well worth the investment. Judith is a truly inspiring educator-in her passion, knowledge, determination and the scope of materials given. Extraordinary area & great hospitality."
Rachel Dee, Boulder, CO
Click here for detailed information or call 801-224-1207 and talk to Kathy
*If you would like to make arrangements to attend an Educational-Training sooner, please contact Conselle and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
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Conselle "Fabulous Fit" Retreat
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 Women whose passion is fashion sewing to achieve a custom and fabulous fit are invited to an exceptional 6-Day hands-on retreat. Spend high value, personalized time with our Master Fitters! Each brings her own unique sphere of interest and expertise to the fitting and fashion makeover experience. Learn revolutionary new methods in fitting and alteration, taking home custom-fitted bodice, shirt, and pant patterns that fit!
Next "Fabulous Fit" Retreat
August 6 - 11, 2012
Rave Reviews for Conselle's "Fabulous Fit" Retreat:
"This was a fantastic experience. These women really know how to teach fitting and altering the pattern. I got a fitted bodice, skirt and pant. I learned so much, ate at many good restaurants and made new friends. Conselle is everything they claim to be and more. Worth every dollar I spent. I now have slopers that I can use to fit any pattern. Don't hesitate, go if you want to really learn about fitting yourself and others."
Mary
"I also attended this Conselle Fit Retreat. I too was totally impressed with this group of ladies. They are masters at their skills. ... They send you home with the information you need to choose, fit, and alter your patterns and clothing forever after. The books written by the instructors, Fabulous Fit, Fitting Alteration, and Measuring Made Easy are the perfect information and reference sources. I highly recommend this retreat."
Mary Jo
For detailed information and testimonials go to Fit Retreat Information or call 801-224-1207 and talk to Kathy.
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