Picking out your prom dress is one of the most exciting parts of the high school experience! You've found the perfect silhouette, the stunning details, and the shoes that are made for dancing. But there’s one major detail left: the color!
The truth is, some colors will make your skin glow, while others can make you look a little washed out. Don’t worry - it’s not about following strict rules, but about understanding what shades harmonize best with your unique coloring. Think of us as your personal prom color stylists!
Understanding Your Skin's Undertone
Before we dive into colors, let's talk about undertones. This is the subtle color beneath your skin’s surface, and it doesn't change when you get a tan. There are three main types: Cool, Warm, and Neutral.
The Vein Test: Quick & Easy
The simplest way to find your undertone is to look at the veins on the inside of your wrist in natural light.
Cool Undertone: Your veins look blue or purple.
Warm Undertone: Your veins look green or olive.
Neutral Undertone: You can't really tell if they are blue or green - they look like a mix.
Color Matching by Undertone
Once you know your undertone, finding colors that make you sparkle is easy!
If You Have a Warm Undertone (Green Veins)
Warm undertones look amazing in colors that have a yellow or golden base. These shades will highlight the warmth in your skin, making you look radiant.
Your Best Prom Colors:
Jewel Tones: Emerald green, ruby red, sapphire blue.
Earthy & Golden Tones: Bronze, gold, coral, deep orange, chocolate brown, olive green, warm reds (like tomato or rust).
Brights: Hot pink, bright turquoise.
Jovani #42845 |
Jovani #43681 |
Colors to Consider Avoiding:
Icy pastels (like icy blue or lavender) can sometimes make you look a bit dull.
If You Have a Cool Undertone (Blue/Purple Veins)
Cool undertones pop in colors that have a blue base. These colors create a beautiful contrast that brightens your complexion and often brings out eye color.
Your Best Prom Colors:
Icy & Blue-Based Tones: Royal blue, navy, sapphire, true red, fuchsia, deep purples, lavender, platinum, silver, cool greens (like seafoam or hunter green).
Pastels: Light pink, baby blue, mint green.
Classic: True black and bright white are also stunning choices.
Jovani #45483 |
Jovani #45533 |
Colors to Consider Avoiding:
Gold or overly orange-based colors can sometimes clash with your cool skin tone.
If You Have a Neutral Undertone (Mixed Veins)
Congratulations! You have the most versatile undertone. You can typically wear colors from both the warm and cool palettes, and you look amazing in shades that are neither too warm nor too cool.
Your Best Prom Colors:
Versatile Staples: True red, classic teal, pure white, gray, and beige.
Middle Ground: You can pull off a wide range - just look for colors that are moderately saturated rather than extremely warm or cool.
Jovani #42811 |
Jovani #42926 |
Don’t Forget the Mood!
While skin tone is a great guide, remember that the most important thing is how you feel in the dress. Do you want to feel:
Bold and Dramatic? Go for a deep jewel tone like sapphire or emerald.
Romantic and Sweet? Try a delicate blush, powder blue, or lilac.
Chic and Classic? You can't go wrong with black, navy, or true red.
At Chantal’s Bridal, we believe every girl deserves to feel absolutely stunning on prom night. We have an incredible selection of colors and styles to match every personality and skin tone. We can’t wait to help you find "The One!"
Ready to start the search for your perfect dress? Book your prom dress appointment with Chantal’s Bridal today!