10 Common Mistakes with Wearing Color (From a Color Expert)

Wearing color should be empowering—not confusing. But if you’ve ever stood in front of your closet wondering why that gorgeous top makes you look exhausted, the issue probably isn’t your mood or makeup—it’s the wrong color for your skin tone and undertones.

As a color analysis expert, I’ve worked with thousands of women (especially in midlife) who felt washed out, invisible, or stuck in a style rut. And most of them were making the same color mistakes.

In this post, I’m breaking down the 10 most common color mistakes women make—plus how to fix each one using pro color analysis tips so you can wear colors that light you up and love you back.

✅ Top 10 Color Mistakes Women Make

1. Choosing Your Favorite Color Over Your Most Flattering One

Your favorite color might be beautiful... just not on you. That dusty rose or electric blue might clash with your undertones and make your skin look tired or uneven.
👉 Fix it: Don’t ditch your favorite—find the right version of it within your personal color palette. For example, if you're warm, go for coral instead of hot pink.

2. Ignoring Your Natural Contrast

Contrast is key. Women with high contrast (like fair skin and dark hair) need contrast in their outfits too. Soft, blended women shine in low-contrast combos.
👉 Fix it: Look at your hair, skin, and eye color together. Then build outfits that match your contrast level for a harmonious, face-framing effect.

3. Wearing Black Like It’s the Only Option

Black is classic, but it’s not universally flattering. It can make some skin tones look harsh, pale, or older. And you can ruin a look by just throwing on a heavy black shoe at the bottom...I call it ending with a thud!👉 Fix it: Swap black for softer dark neutrals like espresso, charcoal, or navy. These are just as versatile but way more forgiving on mature skin.

4. Living in Neutrals (Because Color Feels Scary)

We get it—neutrals feel safe. But beige-on-beige can zap your energy and style.
👉 Fix it: Add pops of color near your face—try a scarf, lipstick, or top in a flattering hue from your color palette. You’ll instantly look fresher and more vibrant.

5. Dressing to Match Your Mood (Instead of Elevating It)

Feeling low? Wearing gray or beige will just keep you stuck there.
👉 Fix it: Use color to shift your energy. Feeling drained? Reach for a color that energizes your skin tone—like coral, teal, or lavender. Color is emotional medicine.

6. Matchy-Matchy Mayhem

Matching everything—shoes, bag, jewelry—can look outdated or forced, especially if the color isn’t flattering.
👉 Fix it: Aim for coordination, not carbon copies. Mix and match tones from your palette for a cohesive, effortless look.

7. Copying Someone Else’s Color Choices

Just because it works on your favorite influencer or BFF doesn’t mean it’ll work on you. Style is personal—and so is color.
👉 Fix it: Use color analysis to find your palette. You can still follow trends, just adapt them to shades that actually flatter you.

8. Not Knowing Your Undertone

Wearing the wrong undertone can make your skin look dull, blotchy, or tired.
👉 Fix it: Learn whether you're warm, cool, or somewhere in between. Undertones are the foundation of choosing colors that make you glow—even without makeup.

9. Assuming Bright Colors Are Best

Bright doesn’t equal flattering for everyone. Some women shine in muted, soft shades that let their natural beauty take the spotlight.
👉 Fix it: Learn your chroma—are you best in bright/clear colors or soft/muted ones? Not sure? We can help.

10. Choosing Color as an Afterthought

Random color choices lead to a cluttered closet and a confusing wardrobe.
👉 Fix it: Build your wardrobe around your best colors. This makes it easier to mix and match—and guarantees you always look polished.

💡 Ready to Find Your Best Colors?

If any of these mistakes sound familiar, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Most women were never taught how to wear color based on their actual features. But once you do know, getting dressed becomes 10x easier (and a whole lot more fun).

🎯 Start with a Signature Color Analysis and discover your most flattering colors, contrast level, and chroma.

👉 Click here to find your best colors

FAQs:

What is color analysis and why does it matter?

Color analysis is a method of determining which colors best complement your natural features, including your skin tone, hair, and eye color. Wearing your best colors can make you look younger, more vibrant, and confident.

Can wearing the wrong color really make me look older or tired?

Yes! Wearing colors that clash with your undertones or chroma can highlight shadows, dull your complexion, and exaggerate fine lines. The right colors enhance your natural glow.

How do I know if I have warm or cool undertones?

There are several methods (none of which involve just looking at your veins). The most accurate way is through a professional color analysis, where we assess your skin tone using color theory, not guesswork.

What if I love a color that isn’t in my palette?

You don’t have to give it up completely. Just shift it away from your face—use it in pants, shoes, or a bag—or find a version of that color in your palette that gives you the same vibe.

Gail Scott

Gail Scott is Creative Director for Style and Beauty. She is a makeup expert and personal stylist. If you would like professional advice with Gail, please sign up for her exclusive 2-hour 1:1 session. Or schedule a 15 minute Style Chat with Gail to ask your questions.