Seasonal Color

Exploring the Autumn Subseasons in the 12 Seasonal Color System: Soft Autumn, True Autumn, and Dark Autumn

Hello everyone.

Here is the Autumn installment of my 12 Seasonal Color exploration series. I’ve curated photos that embody the different qualities and “energies” of the sub-seasons to hopefully help you recognize and develop a more instinctual and inspired connection to and understanding of their different dominating color qualities.

Autumn Reds & Oranges


Autumn, a season of transition and preparation for winter, brings forth gentle and less vibrant colors in the red and orange spectrum. Soft Autumn displays muted brick tones, powdery terracotta shades, faded colors, and delicate pinkish-red hues. True Autumn showcases vibrant tomato reds, falling leaves, butternut squash, sand dunes, and wet brick walls. Deep Autumn unveils rich, dark brick shades, midnight blood oranges, darker pumpkins, and intriguing imagery.

Examples of Autumn Reds & Oranges


Let’s observe how individuals harmonize with these autumnal colors. Drew Barrymore’s soft red coat extends the creamy softness of her hair and skin. Devin Aoki’s ensemble, including coats and a gray beige tank top, creates a perfect backdrop that allows her to shine, enhanced by a richer lipstick color and scarf. Keep in mind that flash photography intensifies colors. Misha Barton looks captivating in a soft, salmony red, creating a diffuse and romantic allure.

Autumn Pinks & Yellows


The realm of autumnal pinks and yellows presents a range of inspiring hues. Soft Autumn offers powdery and delicate shades, reminiscent of variegated Ficus leaves, bromeliad foliage, soft pink carnations, fuzzy jellyfish, and subtly saturated lemon tones. True Autumn introduces richer and warmer hues, such as salmon pink and whipped honey yellow. Deep Autumn delves into berry pinks, darker magenta shades, and yellows with a touch of dark mustard.

Examples of Autumn Pinks & Yellows


Drew Barrymore effortlessly carries a soft gold attire that complements her brows, eyes, hair, and overall complexion. Tyra radiates elegance in a warm pink shade that delicately enhances her features. Tyra’s choice of a soft yellow outfit effortlessly harmonizes with every aspect of her appearance, from brows to bronzer.

Autumn Greens


Autumn greens evoke a captivating ambiance. Soft Autumn presents shades like jade, light olives, and translucent greens, reminiscent of the delicate beauty of stuffed cacti. True Autumn showcases true olive-yellow greens, rich emerald shades, and warm grassy tones. Deep Autumn unravels darker and more mysterious greens with a touch of coolness, evoking a sense of intrigue.

Autumn Green Examples

Soft Autumn greens look misty or covered in down, like sage leaves or frosted mint. True Autumn greens are like jewels in the golden hour or the purest of olives. Deep Autumn greens feature that shadowy depth and velveteen richness.

Autumn Blues & Purples


The serene and captivating blues and purples of autumn offer a soothing aesthetic. Soft Autumn captivates with dreamy and ethereal blues, evoking the tranquility of hazy skies. Similarly, soft purples bring to mind the captivating hues of gentle sunsets or sunrises. True Autumn presents intense turquoise blues that harmonize beautifully with rich grape purples and delicate touches of lavender. Deep Autumn unveils smoky and rich blues, deep amethyst tones, and midnight blues, adding an air of mystery to the autumn palette.

Autumn Blues and Purples Examples


Our exploration of the subtle palette of autumn has unveiled the captivating range of colors that define this season. From muted reds and oranges to powdery pinks, yellows, greens, blues, and purples, autumn offers a spectrum of hues. By observing how individuals harmonize with these colors, we gain insights into their unique beauty and dominating qualities. Remember to embrace the colors that resonate with your personal style and expression.

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