How to Choose the Right Colour Analyst: Insights from a Colour Analyst Herself

Finding the Right Colour Analyst: Why It Matters More Than Ever

As the industry grows, it’s essential to be discerning and to invest in someone who truly understands the art and science of colour analysis. Having been in the field for a while now, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of colour analysis. A colour analysis can truly transform the way you perceive and wear colour, so selecting the right one is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Think of it like choosing an interior designer for your new home: you wouldn’t trust someone who blindly follows design rules without considering your personal style, and the same applies to colour analysis.

When I first experienced colour analysis, I wasn’t taking it too seriously. I viewed it as a fun and experimental service. In Korea, it was incredibly popular, and getting an appointment with a foreigner-friendly analyst was no easy feat. I didn’t care much about the price or location—I just wanted the experience. I assumed that colour analysis would be the same wherever I went, and whoever performed it. My first session was eye-opening and impactful, but after experiencing more analyses and becoming an analyst myself, I realised I should’ve put more thought into choosing the right person. For some, such as brides or anyone making significant life decisions, a well-executed colour analysis can make a lasting impact. And when done right, it should only need to be done once.

Why Picking the Right Analyst Matters

The colour analysis industry can sometimes be narrow in its approach. If you’re cool-toned, you’re often told to stick to cool colours with little flexibility. But I believe colour analysis is much more than identifying whether you’re a Spring or a Winter, or determining if you’re cool-toned or warm-toned.

Here’s how I would go about choosing my colour analyst, if I were starting my journey all over again.

Beyond Certification: What Makes an Exceptional Colour Analyst

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that being an exceptional colour analyst goes far beyond formal certifications and training. While those credentials are important, they are just the starting point and not the sole determinant of expertise. It’s what an analyst does behind the scenes—their ongoing education, self-awareness, and ability to adapt to their clients’ unique needs—that truly sets them apart. A great analyst understands the complexities of different cultures, genders, age groups, and professions.

Here’s what I believe truly sets the best analysts apart:

1. Go Beyond Paper Credentials
   Structured education is essential, but top analysts continually educate themselves. They study cultural aesthetics, explore gender diversity, and keep refining their craft to stay ahead of trends and techniques.
   

2. Value Individuality
   The best analysts recognize that one-size-fits-all doesn’t work. They’ll look beyond seasonal categories to assess your unique preferences, lifestyle, and goals. Your consultant should consider your culture, gender, age, profession, and personal style when recommending colours.
   

3. Understand Context
   Factors like culture, profession, and age all influence how we wear colour. A great analyst tailors their advice to reflect these factors, ensuring the recommendations are practical and relevant.
   

4. Put in the Work Behind the Scenes
   Great analysts don’t just rely on what’s taught in training; they constantly test products, refine their tools, and expand their knowledge base. They’re dedicated to ongoing education, real-world application, and learning from every session.
   

5. An Analyst Who Understands Makeup and Hair

   Makeup knowledge enhances a colour analyst’s ability to provide tailored recommendations. They understand how colours interact with different skin tones, how lighting affects hues, and how makeup application techniques alter a look. However, being a makeup artist doesn’t automatically make someone a better colour analyst. Some makeup artists, much like many hair stylists, might focus too much on cosmetics or hair colour, neglecting the broader, full-image approach that colour analysis should embrace. While makeup and hair can enhance or complement your overall appearance, a great analyst knows that colour analysis is about more than just choosing the right lipstick or hairstyle. It’s about aligning every aspect of your look—skin tone, hair colour, makeup, clothing, and overall style—to work together harmoniously.

   In a multicultural city like Singapore, an effective colour analyst must be able to work with various skin tones and beauty standards. Look for someone who can suggest products from both Western and Asian brands to ensure their recommendations are universally applicable.

   Personally, I don’t prefer being given a list of makeup or clothing colours that simply match my analysis. I wanted to find what truly worked for me—products that aligned with my preferences and that I could confidently integrate into my lifestyle. While some people may appreciate a list, I believe in empowering clients to discover their colours themselves. That’s why we prioritise teaching, offering clear resources, and simplifying the process so that clients can confidently navigate their colour choices well beyond our sessions.
   

Tips for Finding the Right Colour Analyst

Choosing the right colour analyst is an investment in yourself. A great colour analyst should be more than someone who knows how to drape fabrics.

If you’re looking for a colour analyst, here are a few tips to help you find the right one:

1. Do Your Research: Look at their portfolio, client reviews and social media presence. A good analyst will have examples of their work and testimonials that reflect their expertise. Check their work, their personal style, and how well they apply their knowledge. While the tools and programmes are important, the experience and expertise of the consultant are equally crucial. Colour analysis is a field with a low barrier to entry—anyone can claim to be an analyst—so make sure to assess their level of training and skill. Ask yourself: How intensive was their training?
   

2. Read Reviews and Testimonials: As a color analyst, it’s easy to accumulate positive reviews since most people undergo a color analysis only once in their lifetime. But with so many good reviews out there, how do you find the best fit for you? Look beyond the number of positive reviews—focus on what past clients say about their experience. Were their reviews written immediately after the session, or did they reflect on their experience after trying their new colors in-store or at home? Although this can be difficult to determine, word of mouth is often a great way to gauge an analyst’s impact. Look for feedback from clients with diverse needs to assess their versatility.
   

3. Consider the value, not just the price: Colour analysis services come at different price points, but true value lies in what you gain from the session. A higher price might reflect a more in-depth, educational experience that empowers you long-term—but the most expensive option isn’t always the best. Consider what is being offered and whether it aligns with your goals. Ask yourself: Are the insights and confidence you gain worth the investment?
   

4. Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, you should feel comfortable and confident with your analyst. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to explore other options.

COCORY Color inc (Seoul, South Korea)

When I first started as an analyst, I followed the methods I was taught—using the standard seasonal system (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter) without deviation. But over time, I noticed something unsettling: the system didn’t work for everyone. Some people looked off in the prescribed palettes, and I realized that rigid systems weren’t enough. That’s when I decided I needed to take matters into my own hands, redefine my approach, and create a system that truly worked for my clients.

At code.d, it’s important that my team not only rely on their visual judgment but also incorporate a comprehensive understanding of how colours interact with real-life applications. Whether it’s makeup, lighting, or personal preferences, we ensure that every recommendation is backed by a well-rounded knowledge base. By combining theory with real-world application, we make sure that the colours we recommend work in any situation, bringing harmony to our clients’ overall look.

Personal style is more than a formula; it’s an art. And as colour analysts, we owe it to our clients to go beyond textbook rules. Every consultant has their unique take on colour analysis and styling. Take your time, do your research, and remember: your personal palette should be as unique as you are.