What Colors Look Good on Me? A Guide to Finding Your Best Shades

If you’re asking this question, you’re already ahead of the style game. The truth is, many of us wear colors that don’t complement our skin tone—and it can dull our overall look without us even realizing it. Finding the right shades for your skin tone and undertone is more than a fashion hack—it’s a glow-up strategy. At Rank & Style, we’ve done the research and rounded up data-backed insights to help you shop smarter. 

In this guide, you’ll learn how to identify your skin’s undertone, why certain colors work better than others, and how to build a wardrobe that naturally flatters you.

What Are Skin Tones and Undertones?

Let’s start with the basics. Your skin tone is the surface color of your skin, while your undertone is the subtle hue beneath it. Both play a big role in determining which colors make you glow—and which ones fall flat.

One common mistake? Choosing colors (in both fashion and makeup) based solely on skin tone. The real secret lies in understanding your undertone.

It’s also worth noting that while your undertone stays consistent over time, your skin tone can shift with factors like sun exposure and aging—so sticking to one color palette forever doesn’t always work.

Why Certain Colors Work with Your Undertone

Let’s talk harmony. Your undertone—whether it’s warm (think golden or peachy), cool (with hints of pink or blue), or neutral (a mix of both)—plays a huge role in what shades make you look radiant versus what makes you look... kinda blah.

When a color matches your undertone, it creates a natural glow that lights up your skin. Warm undertones shine in earthy tones like gold, rust, and olive, while cool undertones come alive in jewel tones like cobalt, emerald, and lavender. These colors work because they echo the subtle hues already in your skin, creating a balanced, flattering effect.

On the flip side, when a color clashes with your undertone, it can throw things off. You might notice your complexion looking dull, sallow, or just off—even if you're rocking a great outfit. It’s not the color’s fault (we love a neon moment too), it’s just not vibing with your skin’s natural tone.

Bottom line: when you wear shades that match your undertone, you don’t just look better—you feel more confident, polished, and like your most glowing self.

How to Determine Your Undertone

Wondering what undertone am I? You're not alone—and the good news is, figuring it out is easier than you think. Try one (or a few) of these simple tricks to get a better read on your skin's natural vibe.

Vein Test

Take a peek at the veins on the inside of your wrist in natural light. 

The undertone clues are in the color:

• Blue or purple veins = cool undertones
• Green or olive veins = warm undertones
• A mix of both = neutral undertones

Jewelry Test

It's not exactly science, but the jewelry test is a favorite for a reason—it works.

These sparkling clues might help:

• If gold, copper, or rose gold makes your skin glow, you’re likely warm-toned.
• If silver, platinum, or white gold flatters you more, you probably have cool undertones.
• If you look equally fab in both, chances are you’re neutral.

Sun Reaction Test

Think back to the last time you lingered in the sun. Sunburn? Your undertones are cool. Turn into a golden goddess? Your undertones are probably warm. This is strong evidence of neutral undertones if your skin falls somewhere between burnt and tanned after a day in the sun.

Neutral Clothing Test

Throw on a neutral-colored top (think white, beige, or taupe) and check your reflection. If your skin looks yellowish or golden, you’re probably warm. If your face appears pink or rosy, you’re likely cool.

Hair and Eye Color

Not a standalone test, but this one can back up your results. The general rule is that people with eyes in the brown or hazel ranges have warm undertones. Blue, gray, violet, and green eyes point to cool.

What Colors Suit Warm, Cool, and Neutral Undertones?

Imagine loving everything in your closet—because every shade works with your undertone. Sounds like a dream, right? While fashion rules are made to be bent (or broken), knowing your undertone is a game-changer when it comes to building a flattering wardrobe. Here’s your cheat sheet for shopping smarter, styling easier, and glowing harder.

Warm Undertones

What colors look best on me if I’m warm? Think rich, cozy hues that match your golden glow. Deep pigments and earthy tones are your wardrobe’s best friends.

Your warm undertone cheat sheet is below:

• Best Colors: Golden yellow, rich orange, olive, rust, and warm reds
• Best Neutrals: Sand, caramel, camel, and honey
• Jewelry Color: Gold, copper, brass, and earth-toned stones
• Colors to Avoid: Cool grays, icy blues, and anything overly cool-toned
• Style Tip: Warm undertones can pull off fiery shades like cherry red and terracotta like no one else—so go bold.

Cool Undertones

What colors look best on me if my undertone is cool? Embrace the ice-queen aesthetic with gem-like cool tones that bring out the glass-like features of your skin. Blue, navy, emerald, and lavender look amazing with cool undertones. 

Here are some other style tricks to have up your sleeve:

• Best Colors: Cobalt blue, emerald green, lavender, plum, and soft pinks
• Best Neutrals: Blush, nude, black, white, and gray
• Jewelry Color: Silver, white gold, and sapphire gems
• Colors to Avoid: Orange, yellow, and most neons
• Style Tip: Want to wear red? Look for cooler reds with blue undertones—like cherry or berry shades.

Neutral Undertones

What colors look best on me if I’m neutral? You’ve got the best of both worlds. Neutral undertones can wear a wide range of shades—but balance is key. Too warm or too cool, and things can go off-tone quickly.

Here are some of our favorite neutral tips:

• Best Colors: Teal, jade green, dusty rose, true red, and soft peach
• Best Neutrals: Off-white, coffee brown, taupe, and gray
• Jewelry Color: Gold, rose gold, silver, platinum, and color gemstones.
• Colors to Avoid: Overly pale pastels, high-vibrancy neon, and any shade that's close to your skin tone
• Style Tip: Stick to mid-tones and muted shades for your most flattering looks. Think soft, rich, and just-right—not too bright, not too pale.