Color analysis has long been a popular tool in personal styling, often rooted in the framework of seasonal color analysis. For decades, experts have categorized individuals into seasons—Winter, Spring, Summer, or Autumn—based on their skin tone, hair color, and eye color. While this approach has helped many people find their best colors, it’s not without its limitations. At GLOW by Natalia Barlow, we honor the foundation of seasonal analysis but take a more personalized and holistic approach. Here’s how we do it differently.
Seasonal color analysis groups individuals into broad categories, which can be effective for some but overly restrictive for others. The challenge lies in the fact that not everyone fits neatly into a single “season.” For instance, someone may be classified as a “Winter” based on cool undertones, but certain colors from the Winter palette might feel off or too harsh. The rigidity of these seasonal boundaries can lead to a “copy-and-paste” method, where everyone within a season is recommended the same colors—regardless of their unique characteristics, preferences, or goals. This one-size-fits-all approach often overlooks the nuances that make each person’s coloring and energy unique.
At GLOW, we begin with a scientific understanding of your skin’s undertones, much like traditional methods. But instead of confining you to a seasonal palette, we use these undertones as a baseline—a launch point for discovering complementary tones that truly resonate with you.
Our analysis is more than just about matching colors to your skin; it’s about understanding your unique intentions and how you want to be perceived. We incorporate color psychology to select tones that align not only with your natural coloring but also with how you want to connect with others. Whether you’re aiming to convey warmth, authority, creativity, or calm, we carefully curate a palette that supports your communication goals. This level of personalization ensures that the colors you wear are not just flattering—they’re meaningful.
We respect the foundation that seasonal analysis has provided and recognize its strengths in identifying tones that work well for different skin types. However, we believe color analysis should be a journey of discovery, not a rigid classification. At GLOW, we go beyond standard categories to ensure your palette feels authentic, dynamic, and uniquely you.
We also consider how your personal growth and life transitions influence the colors that support you best. For example, a client undergoing a significant career shift may find that tones traditionally outside of their “season” suddenly feel more aligned with their evolving energy. Our approach is fluid and adaptive, allowing room for your natural evolution without boxing you into colors that no longer serve you.
In summary, while seasonal color analysis provides valuable insights, it often falls short in offering a truly personalized experience. At GLOW, we build upon that foundation by combining scientific analysis with a deeper understanding of your goals and how you want to show up in the world. Rather than fitting you into a pre-defined category, we co-create a palette that is as unique and multifaceted as you are.
Our approach celebrates individuality, embraces the evolving nature of personal style, and, most importantly, empowers you to express yourself authentically—no matter the season.
Image Curation
Signature Makeup Lessons
Signature Wardrobe Consulting
Personal Color Analysis