Universal Colors vs. Neutrals: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to color analysis, few words get thrown around as much as neutral and universal. But are they the same thing? Nope—and that’s exactly what Gail and I dive into in this week’s episode of Midlife Moxie.

👉 Watch the full conversation here:

What Exactly Is a Neutral?

Most people think of neutrals as the “basic” colors: black, white, gray, beige, brown. But in reality, not all neutrals are created equal. A neutral is a low-drama, muted shade that plays well with other colors—but that doesn’t mean every neutral works for every person.

The wrong beige, for example, can make you look dull or even sickly, while the right camel, taupe, or ivory can become the backbone of your entire wardrobe.

Universal Colors vs. Neutrals

A universal color is one that almost anyone can wear—warm or cool, light or deep. Teal, coral, and some perfectly balanced reds are classic examples. They blur the line between warm and cool, making them universally flattering.

But here’s the catch: not all neutrals are universal.

• Some neutrals lean warm (think camel or golden brown).

• Some lean cool (like charcoal gray or espresso brown).

• A very small set can truly be worn by almost everyone.

That’s why “neutral” does not mean “anyone can wear it.”

Why This Matters in Your Wardrobe

Neutrals do heavy lifting in your closet. They’re the pinch hitters that make statement pieces wearable, the backdrop that lets bold colors shine, and the foundation for a pulled-together look.

But the magic happens when you know your best neutrals. The right ones will:
✔ Pair seamlessly with your signature colors.
✔ Make shopping easier (and budget-friendly).
✔ Keep your wardrobe versatile, not chaotic.

The Brown Debate

We also had a lively discussion about brown—one of the most controversial neutrals. Brown is trending this season, but many women assume they “can’t wear it.” The truth? There’s a brown for everyone.

• Warm undertones shine in golden browns, camel, and honey shades.

• Cool undertones look better in espresso, mauve-leaning taupes, or Hershey’s-chocolate browns.

• Light vs. deep browns matter depending on your depth.

Brown is anything but boring when you choose the right version for you.

Signature Colors vs. Universals vs. Neutrals

To recap:

• Neutrals are your wardrobe foundations (but not always universal).

• Universal Colors are flattering on nearly everyone.

• Signature Colors are the shades that make you light up—unique to your coloring and personality.

When you know the difference, you shop smarter, save money, and build a wardrobe that feels effortless.

Final Thoughts

Neutrals don’t have to be boring. Universals aren’t magic one-size-fits-all. And your signature shades are what make your style uniquely yours.

🎨 Want to discover YOUR best neutrals, universals, and signature colors?
👉 Get your Signature Color Analysis here and feel confident in every color you wear.

Until next time—go get your Moxie on.

Jennifer Vax

Jen Vax is the founder of Your Color Style. She is a best selling author, speaker, artist and entrepreneur. She helps women learn how to wear color in a way that expresses their true nature. Take the FREE color analysis quiz to get started.