If you’ve ever researched 16-season color analysis, you’ve probably felt confused because there are actually several different versions of it! Some focus on undertones, while others use complex custom palettes that are hard to access (try googling the ‘Pastel Summer’ palette and you’ll get some great graphic design info but not the seasonal palette!). As a trained color analyst, I use the Tonal 16-Season System because it’s the most flexible, user-friendly, and widely used method.
In this post, I’ll explain why this system works best—and how it helps my clients achieve a more accurate, realistic, and personalized color analysis experience.
✨ Let's find your best season ✨
The Problem with Other 16-Season Systems
All 16-season color analysis methods aim to provide more nuance than the traditional 12-season system, but not all of them are equally practical.
Some systems still rely heavily on strict warm vs. cool undertones, which doesn’t account for neutral individuals or those with a mix of warm and cool features. Others create custom color palettes that require purchasing their specific products, making it difficult to find wardrobe and makeup options outside their system.
Many people struggle because they don’t fit neatly into a single category. If you’ve ever felt like color analysis is too restrictive, this is exactly why I choose a more adaptable approach.
Why I Use the Tonal 16-Season System
The Tonal 16-Season System provides the most realistic and functional approach to color analysis. Here’s why I believe it’s the best system for my clients:
1️⃣ More Flexibility for Those "In Between" Seasons
One of the biggest frustrations with traditional color analysis is the idea that you are only warm or only cool. But many people fall somewhere in the middle. And then we’ve got the olive overtone which is a whole other story!
The Tonal 16-Season System allows for greater flexibility by recognizing neutral undertones and mixed tones in your natural features. This means that if you have a combination of warm and cool features, you won’t be forced into a category that doesn’t feel right.
At a glance, this is the Tonal 16 Season System. It includes the original 12 seasons:
True Summer, Soft Summer, Light Summer
True Winter, Deep Winter, Bright Winter
True Autumn, Soft Autumn, Deep Autumn
True Spring, Bright Spring, Light Spring
As well as 4 additional categories for if you are neutral toned and in between seasons:
True Soft: You fall in between Soft Summer and Soft Autumn and your dominant trait is softness
True Deep: You fall in between Deep Winter and Deep Autumn and your dominant trait is depth
True Light: You fall in between Light Spring and Light Summer, and your dominant trait is lightness
True Bright: You fall in between Bright Winter and Bright Spring, and your dominant trait is brightness
Feedback I got from a client once was “OMG I struggled with figuring out my undertone for years! You finally cracked the code. I need to tell my hairstylist who has been confused with me!”
2️⃣ A More Practical & Accessible Approach
Unlike some systems that use exclusive, proprietary color palettes, the Tonal 16-Season System builds on widely available palettes.
For example, if you’re a True Soft, you can easily choose colors from both the Soft Summer palette and Soft Autumn palette, making shopping easier. In contrast, other 16-season systems create custom-named palettes that you have to purchase directly from them, making it harder to research online or find products in stores.
With my approach, you don’t have to spend extra money on custom color tools—instead, you get an intuitive and flexible system that works in real life. And as a bonus, the palette comes with the analysis so no need to go searching for a palette after your results!
3️⃣ More Community & Resources for Your Season
Because the Tonal 16-Season System is the most widely used version, it’s easier to:
✔ Find online communities where people share their experiences.
✔ Look up shopping and makeup recommendations for your season.
✔ Access Pinterest boards, YouTube tutorials, and fashion inspiration based on your season.
Having more available resources means that you’re not alone in your style journey. This makes it easier to continue building your wardrobe and refining your look long after your analysis is complete.
What This Means for My Clients
By using the Tonal 16-Season System, I provide my clients with a color analysis experience that is both accurate and practical.
Instead of handing you a rigid list of colors, I take a holistic approach that considers:
✅ Your natural undertones & complexion
✅ Your wardrobe & personal style preferences
✅ Your lifestyle & how you want to present yourself
My goal is to give you a customized color palette that enhances your natural features without limiting your style. Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe, finding your signature makeup shades, or making shopping easier, this system ensures real-world usability.
Ready to Discover Your Best Colors?
I offer personalized virtual color analysis that goes beyond just seasonal typing—I create a customized palette tailored to you using the Tonal 16-Season System.
✨ Click here to book your session today! ✨
FAQ: Answering Common Questions About This System
❓ Can I wear colors outside my palette?
Absolutely! The goal of color analysis is to give you guidance, not limitations. I help my clients learn how to incorporate their best colors without feeling restricted.
❓ What if my season isn’t what I expected?
Many people assume they are one season, only to discover a better match through professional analysis. That’s why I take a holistic approach that considers all factors before making a final recommendation.
❓ Do you offer virtual color analysis?
Yes! I specialize in virtual color analysis, using high-quality image assessment techniques to provide precise and reliable results—no matter where you are in the world. And if you happen to be in my neck of the woods, I also offer in-person colour analysis services.
