First Impressions in Brights

As a personal stylist I am often asked, "How do I make a great first impression?" Sometimes the person asking needs to know for an interview for a new job but very often they ask for social occasions like parties and weddings, especially if they're single!

The bright, bold colours this season are great for getting yourself some attention and standing out from the crowd. If you are trying to make an impact plain black or neutrals will be lost this season. To make a more striking first impression you need to add brights to your look. So what are the rules you should follow?

Colouring

Firstly make sure you know if your colouring is warm or cool. Warm skin tones look fabulous in ochres, oranges, emeralds, turquoises and aquas. Cooler skin tones are better in fuchsias, reds, royal blue and purples. If your natural colouring is very deep and bold you can really go to town with bright colours, the deeper the better. However, if your colouring is lighter and softer, stick to light-to-medium depth brights as the deepest shades can be overpowering. If you're not sure about the colours that work best for you, why not book a colour analysis with a personal stylist?

Personality

Think about your personality. If you are very outgoing and like to be the centre of attention you can wear bright colours top- to-toe in retro combinations. However, if you're more introverted just one or two bright pieces can be enough to make an outfit and they might just be a belt and shoes with quite a neutral outfit. White items such as skirts or trousers will break the brights up. Remember, you have to be comfortable with your clothes to make a good impression. A personal stylist can help you discover more about your style personality.

Build

If you are petite, you can wear one bright colour from top-to-toe. It will make you look taller. If you choose two colours make sure they tone. If you are tall you can go for colour blocking to break up the look.

Body Shape

Some body shapes are the same size on the top half as they are on the bottom. If this is true of yours then it doesn't matter where you use your bright colours. If, however, you are conscious that your bottom half is bigger, use your brights at the top to divert attention and a more subtle colour on the bottom half. If you're top-heavy with narrow hips why not go for this season's bright skirts, shorts, trousers or jeans.

Make-Up

Bright lips definitely make a strong impact and work well with bright outfits. If your personality allows for it, go a shade braver with your lipstick this summer.

Situation

The situation you will be in will make it important what you choose. If you are using brights at work or for an interview, one bright top or bag can be enough to make a lasting impression without going over the top. If, on the other hand, you're going clubbing, top-to-toe brights will be bang on trend and will help you get the attention you are seeking.

Don't forget that whoever you are and whatever your motives, you can make great first impressions this season using bright colours.


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Beth Price is a senior personal stylist with ColourMeBeautiful. Based in Herefordshire, Beth offers consultations on all aspects of image including colour analysis, style consultations and make-up lessons. She has worked as a stylist for ten years and is an expert in creating great first impressions.