FAQ – Colour Analysis
A colour analysis is a method used to identify the colours that flatter your natural appearance the most. This is based on your skin tone, hair colour, eye colour, undertone and more. By matching specific colour palettes to these personal features, you can choose clothing, makeup, and accessories that make compliments your natural tones. You will notice that your skin looks more vibriant and your hair colour brightens up. At Hi Style Academy we work with our own colour drapes and colour flags under the face, evaluating the effect on the skin, eyes, and overall appearance. This makes shopping for clothing, makeup, accessories and even hair colour so much easier.
The traditional method is the seasonal system. Hereby people are categorized into colour types based on the four seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter. Each season comes with its own palette, with warmer tones for spring and autumn and cooler tones for summer and winter. However, nowadays there are so many different colour types that working with only four is too little. Colour Analysis Academy works with 18 colour types, ensuring the most specific and detailed colour palette for any skin tone. Besides the traditional seasonal types, we have added so called ‘in-between’ types such as a Deep Autumn, Soft Winter or Medium. Clients will see they have a brought colour palette to choose from working with the 19 colour types.
A certified colour analyst is an expert in colour harmony. During a colour analysis session, we observe and analyse your natural undertones and contrasts, then assigns you a colour type and a personal colour palette. You receive immediate advice: which blazer shades bring out your eyes, which tops avoid dullness in your skin, and even which makeup subtly enhances your look. At Colour Analysis Academy we give you a physical colour card you can keep in your bag to compare next to clothing or makeup products while shopping. You also receive help combining which shades of colours match best in outfits, if gold or silver suits you best, hair colour advice, and even tips for glasses if needed. With your colours done, working towards a capsule wardrobe becomes easier, making mixing and matching easy. In our Academy we often hear people say after an analysis they make fewer poor purchases, feel more confident about their buying decisions and outfits, and receive more compliments.
The benefits of personal colour analysis are clear and widespread. Here a few examples:
- You shine: colours that suit your type make you look healthier, fresher, and more awake.
- Save money and time: fewer bad buys because you shop based on your colour card.
- More sustainable: less discarded clothing, fewer impulsive purchases, so less waste.
- Convenience: no more doubting in stores. You know what works and what to skip.
- Capsule wardrobe: because all your clothes fit together, you need fewer items for more combinations.
- Total look: you also receive tips for hair colour, makeup and accessories like jewellery.
- Confidence: many clients say they feel more powerful and attractive.
See our happy clients on our YouTube channel Hi Style Academy or on TikTok!
Traditional colour matching mostly looks at which colours technically match items (think of putting together outfits based on colour wheels or contrast). Personal colour analysis focuses on how colours enhance or weaken your natural features. A personal colour palette is tailored to you as an individual, while traditional matching is more generic and trend-sensitive, and doesn’t consider your individual pigmentation, undertones, personality or the effect on your appearance. In personal colour analysis, undertone (warm vs cool), contrast (high or low between hair, skin, and eyes), and intensity (bright or muted) are key. In traditional matching, these are often ignored. At Colour Analysis Academy you get an individual personal colour analysis.
A colour analysis appointment typically lasts 1 to 1.5 hours. You sit in front of a well-lit mirror while we use coloured drapes (with specific cool/warm or dark/light qualities) and hold different colours under your face. Each colour’s effect is assessed: does it make your skin even, eliminate shadows, or bring out your eye colour? If not, the colour is rejected. By systematically switching between drapes, your colour type becomes clear, and show you your top colours and best combinations. Afterwards you will receive your colour card that acts as a mini-guide for future shopping. During the analysis, we will take photos so you can review the best colours at home. There is plenty of time for questions about clothing combinations, makeup, hair colour, accessories, and even choice of glasses.
Online colour analyses via apps or digital consultations are growing on social media. Tools like Colorwise.me and My Color Analysis AI use algorithms to generate a palette based on selfies, while others use detailed questionnaires and digital draping. They can be fun, however, we see that the results are often wrong. A personal colour analysis can’t be done online, there are too many factors that keep it vague such as screen quality, lighting, and algorithmic limitations. Besides, every skin tone is so unique, the changes of AI getting it right are too limited. Also, a colour analysis is so much fun to do and you only have to do it once!
The market is not regulated, that means that anyone can call themselves a colour analyst. Colour Analysis Academy has recognized certifications, reviews, testimonials, and over a 5000 clients helped with a colour analysis. We take our time, explain our method, and always provide a personalized colour card.
Most people don’t change types structurally, but going grey, aging or radically dyeing your hair can shift your colour type. An Autumn colour type once turning grey can shift to Deep Autumn or Deep for a more balanced look. However, your basic undertone generally remain the same. We always take subtle changes into account as you age or with significant changes to your hair/face. That’s why a colour analyse is so sustainable, you will receive the benefits for years and years.
A colour analysis at Colour Analysis Academy (and Hi Style Academy) in the Netherlands costs € 275 (including a colour card). By a group of two people the costs are € 259 per person including personal colour card. If you combine colour analysis with style advice, the fee is often around € 499. Sessions typically last 1 to 1.5 hours. For big groups, please contact us directly, since we can offer a discount.
Absolutely. We do not only offer advice about clothing, but you also receive tips on which hair colours and makeup (foundation, blush, lipstick, eyeshadow) suit your type. The right makeup palette makes a big difference to your appearance and makes it easy to choose options that highlight your natural freshness and skin tone.
There are free tools, apps and tests to help you make an estimate (such as Colorwise.me, online quizzes, Pinterest guides). Starting with a DIY analysis can be interesting, especially if you optimize your lighting and take a selfie in daylight without makeup. However, there’s a good chance you might land in a grey area, where a professional can help you clear up doubts and provide consistency. And also, online programs can’t include personal preferences, in between colour types and personality.
In South Korea, colour analyses are extremely popular among young adults. The Korean method focuses on subtle subcategories and a slightly different interpretation of the seasonal palette, often based on skin transparency, softness of the face, and a strong emphasis on makeup. In Europe, the classic seasonal analysis and the twelve type system are most common. Asian approaches are less tied to ‘warm’ and ‘cool’ seasons since undertones there are typically subtler. Koreans often use a lighter style, while European analysis considers the diversity in hair colours and textures. Both systems are valuable but differ in focus and culture. At Hi Style Academy we hold on to the European colour analysis where we mainly focus on the different warm and cool undertones, the subtypes, your personality and personal preferences. Besides, we use many different colour drapes and colour flags to show you the instant effect of the different colours and combinations.
Whether you want to be a more sustainable consumer, reduce doubt with purchases or simply want to shine: a colour analysis removes uncertainty and gives you a sharp basis for your look. Especially now that fast fashion, filter trends and trend confusion are everywhere, it is so valuable to know what makes you unique and why certain colours make you naturally stand out. Once you know your colours you will experience lots of fun looking for your best colours and outfits.
FAQ – Colour Analysis Training
Colour styling is much more than just choosing beautiful colours. It is a discipline where, with knowledge of colour, materials and the individual, you help people present themselves at their best. Colour stylists work in fashion, beauty, interiors, retail, and personal coaching. There is a growing need for professional colour stylists: colour advice is more popular than ever. Good colour choices boost confidence, prevent bad purchases, and give a professional appearance. Globally, the demand for colour stylist training is increasing significantly in both the fashion and beauty industries. But what does becoming a colour stylist involve? What do you learn, what skills do you need, and what can you do with it?
A colour stylist, also known as a colour analyst or colour expert, advises clients on the colours that best suit their skin, hair, eyes, style, and personality. This can range from clothing and hair to make-up and accessories. At Colour Analysis Academy you’ll learn to map out different colour types (such as spring, summer, autumn, winter, cool, warm), work with colour drapes or flags, and design colour combinations in which the client shines. A colour analyst often does wardrobe checks, delivers workshops, works in salons or as an image consultant, and can work independently. The profession requires knowledge, empathy, and a good eye for detail. The main goal is always to help clients feel more beautiful and confident with colour.
There are various forms of colour stylist training at Colour Analysis Academy:
- Online courses
- Flexible start, with 20 video lessons and two practical days, online guidance, and digital course materials.
- Classroom-based practical training
- Intensive practice with models in small groups or private tuition.
Both options are suitable for both beginners. For more advanced, we offer the Advanced Practical training. Read more about that training here.
Colour stylist courses are aimed at a broad audience: from curious beginners to experienced hairdressers, make-up artists, fashion consultants, or coaches. You do not need any specific prior education: motivation and interest are the most important. Professionals can deepen their knowledge with advanced courses and masterclasses.
Enrolling in a colour stylist course is always done online by filling out the contact form below. Please mention your desired program and your personal details, and we’ll get in touch with you soon.
When applied for an online course, you will gain access to the online learning environment and the course materials after registration. For practical days or classroom lessons, you can choose from available dates.
A colour stylist training starts with basic colour theory (colour wheel, pigments, and colour theory) and builds towards practical application. At Colour Analysis Academy we cover:
- Colour theory: colour wheel, pigments, colour harmony.
- Analyzing colour types: seasonal systems (4/6/10 types), recognizing characteristics.
- Person & colour: integrating skin tone, hair, eye colour, and personality into advice.
- Colour psychology & the effect of colour on appearance and communication.
- Practical analysis: working with colour drapes, colour cards, drapes and digital tools.
- Combining and styling with colours for clothing, accessories, make-up and hair.
- Consulting skills: client conversations, presenting, organising workshops.
- Business skills: starting as a freelancer, building a portfolio, online visibility.
Advanced modules focus on upgrading from 6 to 12 or 18 colour types, men’s advice, handling grey hair, personal branding and developing your own workshops. Our programs are continuously updated with the latest trends in colour and fashion.
The professional Colour Analysis training consists of a three-day program in small groups (max 3 participants). It covers both theory and practical exercises: you learn to do colour analyses, give personalized advice, and practice with a wide variety of colour drapes. The training focuses on six main types (spring, summer, autumn, winter, cool, warm), but you can specialize in eighteen types in the advanced module. Upon completion, you receive a certificate, gain access to course materials, and can continue with the advanced program, where you’ll learn to advise based on personality, style, and colour sense. We offer both practical training in Rotterdam and an online variant with the same guidance at a lower tariff.
After completing the Essential Colour Analysis training, you can further expand your colour analysis expertise through the Advanced Colour Analysis training, with specialized training in the 16 colour types.
The duration varies by program and learning style. Practical training programs usually last 2/3 days. An online course takes on average 3 to 6 months, depending on your pace. We offer flexible enrolment, ideal for students who want to combine training with work or family. Advanced courses and specialist modules are usually 1 to 3 days.
The cost of Colour Stylist training can vary depending on the course structure and included materials. At Colour Analysis Academy, all lesson materials are included in the training fee. Professional colour drapes and/or flags are optional and can be purchased during the course if required. For detailed pricing and current course fees, please contact us by email for more information.
You will complete the practical and online program with a certificate recognized by industry associations for stylists or image professionals. A certificate enhances your credibility as an independent entrepreneur or if you want to apply for positions at salons or stores.
Online colour stylist course: Flexible, often cheaper, ideal for people with busy family lives or jobs. You set your own study pace and work independently on assignments with online support.
Classroom/practical: Intensive, direct practice with models, personal feedback, networking with fellow students. Practical for those who prefer learning by doing or want to analyse directly in practice.
Absolutely! Our basic courses are designed for starters without prior knowledge of colour theory or styling. Under our guidance, you will be guided step by step to a professional level. Afterwards, you can always follow an Advanced course at Colour Analysis Academy. Becoming a successful colour stylist is mainly a combination of training, practical experience, and personal development.
You do not need any specific qualifications to get started with our Colour Analysis courses. You only need motivation and an interest in colours. A big advantage is that you gain practical experience during the training, so you can start with customers immediately as a freelancer or as part of a team.
Colour stylist training is accessible, versatile, and continuously developing. With a completed colour stylist training, you can work freelance, in salons, as a personal shopper, or in retail. You can also give workshops, do wardrobe checks, or start your own (online) consultancy. As a starter, a colour consultation quickly earns you €75-€195 per session; workshops range from €250-€600 (depending on group size, location, and your experience). If you grow as a trainer or collaborate with stores and fashion brands, your income may increase even further.
Are you ready to become an expert in colour analysis? Follow these steps to build a successful career in colour consulting!
- Choose a course that fits your lifestyle
Enroll in a practical training at Colour Analysis Academy or opt for an online course designed for busy schedules. - Practice regularly
Train your eye for colour by practicing with friends, family, and fellow students to build confidence and experience. - Build a professional portfolio
Collect testimonials, take before-and-after photos, and document your work to create a strong and credible portfolio. - Specialize with advanced modules
Deepen your expertise with our Advanced training and grow from six to twelve or even eighteen colour types. - Promote your services
Increase your visibility through social media, your own website, networking events, and collaborations with other professionals. - Join our free masterclasses
Every quarter we organize a free masterclass on a specific topic such as trends, specific skin tones or colour types. During these masterclasses you can network with other colour analysists and learn from each other.
By continuing to develop your skills, you can build a rewarding and sustainable career as a certified colour consultant.
Want to get the most from a colour stylist course? Practice a lot, ask for feedback, immerse yourself in trends, and immediately start building a portfolio with photos and testimonials. Keep up with the trends in color land, join our free masterclasses every courter and invest in good materials. Networking and visibility are decisive for your success as an independent colour consultant.