The Four Types of Summer in Colour Analysis
In the 16-season personal colour analysis system, the Summer season is one of the most soft and subtle categories. This season is characterized by its cool undertones, soft contrast, and light, muted colours. Within the Summer category, there are four sub-types: True Summer, Cool Summer, Light Summer, and Muted (Soft) Summer.
By understanding the value, intensity, and undertone of each Summer type, you can select the perfect colours for your wardrobe and makeup, ensuring you always look your best.
Already familiar with the Summer categories? Check out my posts on the different types of Winter, Autumn, and Spring seasons.
True Summer
True Summer hues are cool, soft, and gentle; and True Summer individuals shine in light and airy colours.
Value: Medium contrast; soft and cool
Intensity: Low intensity (soft, muted), smoky and dusty, pastel to deep colours
Undertone: Cool (blue-based)
Colours within True Summer: True Summer colours are cool, muted, and soft (think “smoked”, dusty, or foggy). The season includes shades like dusty rose, powder blue, soft lavender, and cool grey.
Colours to avoid: True Summers should avoid warm and vibrant tones, such as orange, bright yellow, and warm browns, as these can make their complexion look sallow.
True Summer makeup colours:
Lips: Cool pinks, soft berries, and mauve
Eyes: Cool greys, soft blues, and taupe
Blush: Cool pink, soft rose
Cool Summer
Cool Summer sits between Summer and Winter, with colours that are cooler and slightly more intense than True Summer. Cool Summer individuals can handle a mix of light and medium contrasts.
Value: Light to medium contrast, light to dark colours
Intensity: Medium (softer than Winter)
Undertone: Cool
Colours within Cool Summer: Cool Summer shares some of True Summer’s cool tones, but with a bit more depth. Colours include cool teal, slate blue, cool pinks, and charcoal.
Colours to avoid: Cool Summer individuals should avoid overly warm shades like orange, yellow, and warm browns.
Cool Summer makeup colours:
Lips: Raspberry, cool pinks, and soft reds
Eyes: Slate grey, cool navy, and soft brown
Blush: Soft pink, rose
Light Summer
Light Summer lies between Summer and Spring, with some of the light, fresh qualities of Spring. The colours are light, cool, and slightly brighter than True Summer.
Value: Low contrast, light colours
Intensity: Medium
Undertone: Neutral leaning cool
Colours within Light Summer: Light Summer colours are light, soft, and fresh. Think of shades like soft aqua, light periwinkle, pastel pink, and light grey.
Colours to Avoid: Light Summer individuals should avoid dark, heavy, and overly warm colours like black, dark brown, and orange.
Light Summer makeup colours:
Lips: Light pink, soft coral, and light berry
Eyes: Soft grey, light blue, and taupe
Blush: Light pink, soft peach
Muted (or Soft) Summer
Muted Summer, also called Soft Summer, is a transition season between Summer and Autumn, incorporating some of the muted qualities of Autumn. The colours are soft, muted, and less vibrant.
Value: Low contrast, soft and muted
Intensity: Low
Undertone: Neutral leaning cool
Colours within Muted Summer: Muted Summer colours are soft, muted, and gentle. Think of shades like soft mauve, muted teal, dusty pink, and greyed blue.
Colours to Avoid: Muted Summer individuals should avoid bright, vibrant, and overly warm shades like neon colours, bright orange, and warm red.
Muted Summer makeup colours:
Lips: Soft mauve, muted rose, and cool taupe
Eyes: Soft brown, muted grey, and soft blue
Blush: Soft pink, muted coral