Colour Analysis2025-07-075 min read

Spring vs Autumn: How to Tell the Difference

Confused about whether you're a Spring or Autumn? Learn the key differences between these warm palettes.

S

Sarah J

Fashion Blogger

spring Palette
Spring vs Autumn: How to Tell the Difference
Colour Analysis

One of the most common dilemmas in colour analysis is distinguishing between Spring and Autumn palettes. Both are warm-toned seasons, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Understanding these differences is crucial for building a wardrobe that truly enhances your natural beauty.

The Key Differences at a Glance

Spring Palette

Undertones: Warm and golden
Intensity: Clear and bright
Saturation: High saturation
Overall Feel: Fresh and vibrant

Autumn Palette

Undertones: Warm and golden
Intensity: Rich and muted
Saturation: Medium to low saturation
Overall Feel: Earthy and sophisticated

Physical Characteristics

Hair Colour

Spring

  • Golden blonde
  • Strawberry blonde
  • Light golden brown
  • Auburn with golden highlights

Autumn

  • Rich auburn
  • Deep copper
  • Dark golden brown
  • Chestnut brown

Eye Colour

Spring

  • Bright blue
  • Clear green
  • Golden brown
  • Hazel with golden flecks

Autumn

  • Deep brown
  • Rich hazel
  • Olive green
  • Amber

Skin Tone

Spring

  • Peachy undertones
  • Golden ivory
  • Light to medium depth
  • Often freckles easily

Autumn

  • Golden or bronze undertones
  • Warm beige to deep golden
  • Medium to deep depth
  • Tans easily

Simple Tests to Determine Your Season

The Orange Test

Hold up a bright orange and a burnt orange near your face:

Spring: Bright, clear orange makes you glow
Autumn: Burnt, muted orange is more flattering

The Gold Test

Compare bright gold jewellery with antique gold:

Spring: Bright, shiny gold looks best
Autumn: Antique, muted gold is more harmonious

The Green Test

Try on bright lime green versus olive green:

Spring: Bright lime green enhances your features
Autumn: Olive green complements your colouring

Common Mistakes When Choosing Between Spring and Autumn

Assuming All Warm = Autumn

Many people think warm undertones automatically mean Autumn, but Springs are also warm-toned with different intensity levels.

Ignoring Intensity Levels

The key difference is often intensity - Springs need clear, bright colours while Autumns need rich, muted tones.

Focusing Only on Hair Colour

Hair colour alone isn't enough - you need to consider skin undertones and overall contrast levels.

Not Testing in Natural Light

Always test colours in natural daylight - artificial lighting can be misleading when determining your season.

Your Best Colour Choices

If You're a Spring

Neutrals

Ivory, warm beige, camel, golden brown

Accent Colours

Coral, bright orange, clear yellow, turquoise

Statement Colours

True red, bright green, clear blue

If You're an Autumn

Neutrals

Cream, warm taupe, chocolate brown, rust

Accent Colours

Burnt orange, olive green, mustard yellow

Statement Colours

Deep teal, burgundy, forest green

When to Seek Professional Analysis

Still Unsure?

If you're finding it difficult to determine whether you're a Spring or Autumn, consider booking a professional colour analysis. A trained analyst can:

  • Use professional draping techniques
  • Assess your colouring in optimal lighting
  • Determine your specific subtype
  • Provide personalised colour swatches
  • Give tailored wardrobe advice

Embrace Your Warm Palette

Whether you're a vibrant Spring or a rich Autumn, both palettes offer beautiful, warm colours that can transform your wardrobe. The key is understanding the intensity and saturation levels that work best for your unique colouring.

Article Tags

spring paletteautumn palettewarm undertonescolour theory

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S

Sarah J

Fashion Blogger

Sarah is a fashion blogger and budget styling expert who believes that looking amazing shouldn't break the bank. She specialises in finding affordable pieces that work perfectly with seasonal colour palettes.

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