HOW TO: USE THE SWATCH FAN

Watch this video to learn how to use your swatch fan!

Are you familiar with the art of utilizing a swatch fan, and do you genuinely need one? A color swatch fan serves as a blending tool, and I will guide you through its effective use. Rather than aiming for an exact color match, the goal is to establish a 'connection' so that all your chosen colors can harmoniously coexist.

Now that you've identified the colors that enhance your appearance through a Personal Colour Analysis Appointment, the next step is to wear them in a way that complements you. A color swatch unveils the workings of your color type, encompassing every desirable shade tailored to suit you best. With a bit of confidence, you can streamline your wardrobe, ultimately saving both time and money.

Developing a bond with your color palette is a common sentiment. Most individuals feel connected to their Color Family or, at the very least, to certain colors, as your natural coloring and instincts are intertwined. This revelation presents an opportunity to make informed purchases that accentuate your features, a task challenging to achieve when relying on mental images of colors, especially under store lighting.

The Colour Doesn’t need to be an exact match - Look for Harmony

Using a color swatch fan in person as a blending tool entails appreciating the diversity within each color family, rather than attempting an exact match. Imagine trying to find a dress in the precise turquoise shade of your swatch – a daunting and frustrating endeavor.

Each color family constitutes a harmonious blend of colors, with numerous shades between each visible color, akin to an artist's palette. The key is to identify colors that connect and complement each other. When assessing colors against a plain fabric, look for related shades and connections rather than exact matches. Ask yourself “does this print or solid blend with my swatch fan?” or “does my swatch fan seem unrelated or like it stands out?” - if it stands out and seems unrelated to the colors, than it isn’t a match! If it feels like it blends right in, than you found an item that will work for you!

Using the Swatch fan

Hold your color swatch against different fabrics and observe the connections. For instance, a Cool swatch with a blue undertone may connect well with a pink fabric, while a Warm swatch with a yellow undertone may harmonize with peach tones. The method applies to prints as well, ensuring that the colors seamlessly blend with the fabric background.

This approach can be applied to your current wardrobe or while shopping. Assess any garment by fanning out your color swatch to find similarly colored 'windows' and evaluate the harmony. The goal is not identical colors but a sense of connection. If a color complements your fabric swatch, it will likely enhance your overall appearance.

Building your wardrobe

Building a color-coordinated wardrobe is a gradual process. Begin by sorting your current wardrobe, emphasizing neutrals initially, and introduce colors following your color swatch. Extend this method to makeup selection, where following your color swatch simplifies the process, ensuring that chosen tones complement your unique palette.


In conclusion, a color swatch serves as a valuable tool in creating a wardrobe that resonates with your personal style, saving you time and money while enhancing your overall appearance.

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My Journey & The 16 Season Method

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PERSONAL COLOUR ANALYSIS: THE 4x4 COLOR SYSTEM