We all know what “soft” means. We all know what “autumn” is. But what is “soft autumn”? And furthermore, what significance does it have when related to seasonal color palettes? I’ve created a digital palette for you to reference. Look at the colors…what do they have in common? What characteristics do you see? What characteristics don’t you see?
To start, think about the colors you’d typically associate with the autumn season. The leaves begin changing colors, the sun starts setting earlier in the evening, and our landscape morphs from one alive with the cool vibrancy of summer into one ablaze with the cozier, warm tones of fall. We think of golds, reds, browns, and oranges. We’re on the right track. Let’s delve further.
A “soft” color typically refers to a hue that appears gentle, subdued, or muted in comparison to its brighter or more intense counterparts. Characteristics that define a soft color include:
- Low Saturation: Soft colors often have low saturation, meaning they appear less vibrant or intense compared to highly saturated colors.
- Lightness: Soft colors tend to have lighter tones or shades. They are not overly dark or bold.
- Subdued Appearance: Soft colors may appear somewhat muted or toned down, lacking harsh contrast.
- Blended or Neutralized Tints: Soft colors may be created by blending a color with white or neutralizing it with gray to reduce its intensity.
Putting these concepts together, the soft autumn palette is comprised of autumn colors, but the colors aren’t bold or bright. The softness of the soft autumn color palette primarily stems from the muted and subdued tones it comprises. Unlike the vivid and bold colors often associated with other seasons, soft autumn colors are characterized by their gentle and understated appearance. For example, instead of a bright orange, a soft autumn palette might feature a softer, more muted shade, reminiscent of a pumpkin’s subtle hue.
Soft browns, such as caramel and taupe, form the foundation of the palette, and the rest of the colors blend harmoniously with them. Furthermore, the softness of the soft autumn palette is enhanced by its neutral to warm undertones. While the colors may be muted, they retain a sense of warmth derived from their underlying hues. It is the combination of muted tones and neutral-warm undertones that renders the soft autumn palette soft, imbuing it with a subtle elegance and charm that captures the essence of the season.
Who looks best in soft autumn colors? You most likely won’t find a pale complected person with jet black hair and laser-blue eyes looking their best in the softness of our palette. Their features would have a lot of natural contrast and need the bolder colors from perhaps one of the winter palettes. Instead, you’ll notice that those in the soft autumn palette typically have low contrast in their natural features with a neutral to warm undertone in their complexion. Their hair color can vary in shades which commonly include golden blonde, caramel brown, warm chestnut, and soft auburn. Eye colors in the palette are usually soft and muted, ranging from warm browns and hazels to soft greens.
Is it starting to become more clear? This palette can be a little tricky to determine at the outset, and finding colors that are an EXACT match can often be difficult as they need to be “just right”. But the hard work will pay off! Soft Autumn colors often have a timeless and sophisticated quality that transcends trends. By investing in pieces in these classic hues, you can build a wardrobe that withstands changing fashion trends and remains stylish for years to come. Wearing colors that complement your natural coloring will take the guesswork out of getting ready in the morning, and you’ll look great doing it!
