My Experience With Korean Colour Analysis (And What I Learned)

Photo by Daniele Levis Pelusi on Unsplash.

Our visual presence speaks before we do. Whether I like it or not, how I visually look, speaks before I do. And as someone who enjoys creatively conveying myself through the clothes I wear and the style I present, as soon as I learned about Korean colour theory, I was intrigued.

What is Korean colour analysis?

Colour Analysis helps clients discover colours that complement their natural features. And Korean Colour Analysis places a particular emphasis on skin undertone and colour values (light and dark). It also tends to focus more on makeup looks and styles, specifically those aligned with Asian beauty trends.

What did my session include?

Dozens of colour swatches were placed on my chest as I looked in front of the mirror. My Certified Colour Consultant, Elisha, walked me through why each colour was or was not complementary to my skin tone, eye colour, and hair colour. Elisha also showed me what hair colours I might consider, makeup colours, and jewelry colours. After about 45 minutes, Elisha gave me a primary and secondary swatch card for me to use when planning outfits and investing in new clothes.

Elisha completing my colour analysis on her tablet.

Four things I learned about Korean colour analysis

These are the four biggest lessons I learned from my Korean colour session.

1. Many people seek colour theory during life transitions

New jobs, weddings, divorces, retirement, graduation, life transitions can be both excruciating and invigorating. Elisha, Founder of Nu’an Colour, shared that most of her clients book their first session with her during a significant life change. “Specifically, many are entering the era of becoming new parents. I love helping all of my clients uncover their most energizing and flattering colours as they embark on their new journey.

2. I was wrong about which colours look good on me

Since I don’t have blue eyes, I always thought I should avoid wearing blue. But as colour theory expert Elisha pointed out, several shades of blue actually ‘brighten my skin.’ What I learned is that colour theory is far more nuanced than I realized.

“I chose the name Nu’an because I love the English word nuance. Colour theory has a lot of nuance, and even a subtle difference in shade or tone can have a big impact on a person’s natural beauty and energy.”

Elisha completing my colour analysis at Nu'an Colour studio.

3. Certain colours made me look more energized

And some colours washed me out, making me look grey, tired, and unwell! Watching my features subtly change based on the different swatches of colours placed on my shirt was surprising. I’m someone who does a lot of public speaking, and I could actually feel the shift in confidence with different colours. It might sound a bit strange, though, it turns out there’s some real science behind this emotional connection to colour! “People systematically and reliably associate colours with emotions, as shown in 132 studies, spanning 128 years, and including over 40,000 participants.” [Do we feel colors?]

4. Colour theory can help you create a capsule wardrobe

Sustainability is important to me, so I try to avoid fast fashion by investing in pieces that aren’t just trendy. With two personalized colour swatches from my session, I now feel confident choosing clothing I’ll love, and wear, for years to come.

These swatches of complementary colours also help me feel more confident about buying new clothes—whether it’s because something no longer fits or it’s time to upgrade a few pieces. If you ever feel overwhelmed by shopping or putting outfits together, colour theory might be a helpful tool for you too.

The quiet art of seeing someone fully

One of the highlights of my session was meeting Elisha. Her calm, grounding presence immediately put me at ease, and she never once made me feel judged. Not even when I bashfully confessed that I had no clue what my foundation shade is or which eyeshadow colours compliment me. Makeup has never been my strong suit, and Elisha didn't make me feel bad about it.

Elisha teaching colour theory at a Dress for Success event.

Typically, Elisha works with a lot of performers. Actors, dancers, and other artists who captivate audiences every day. She helps them elevate their craft and presence, using colour theory to help them shine a little bright under the spotlight.

Elisha also donates her expertise to non-profits, such as Dress for Success Vancouver.

“Everyone deserves to feel their best and look their best. It brings me joy when I see my clients light up after seeing different colours illuminate their smiling faces.”

- Elisha Han Ning Wang, Founder and Director of Nu'an Colour

Whether facing a challenge or celebrating a win, I learned from Elisha that the right colours can lift your energy, boost your confidence, and completely transform how you show up in the world.

Elisha Han Ning Wang, Founder of Nu'an Color.

Elisha Han Ning Wang is the visionary Founder and Director of Nu'an Colour. With a rich background in Art and design, she embarked on her journey as a Certified Colour Consultant in 2023.