The color wheel is a vital tool for anyone interested in makeup artistry. Understanding how colors relate to and complement each other on the wheel provides guidance on creating cohesive and flattering makeup looks. In this article, we will explore what the color wheel is, how it works, and how to use it when selecting and applying makeup.
What is the color wheel?
The color wheel is a visual representation of colors arranged according to their hue and relationship to one another. Sir Isaac Newton developed an early version of the color wheel in 1666 when he mapped the color spectrum into a circle. Since then, many artists and color theorists have created their own interpretations of the wheel.
At its most basic, the color wheel consists of 12 colors – 3 primary colors, 3 secondary colors and 6 tertiary colors.
The primary colors are red, yellow and blue. These colors cannot be created by mixing other colors, but all other colors can be formed by mixing the primaries.
The secondary colors are green, orange and purple. They are made by mixing two adjacent primary colors – red and yellow make orange, yellow and blue make green, and blue and red make purple.
The tertiary colors are formed by mixing a primary color with an adjacent secondary color. For example, red-orange, yellow-orange, yellow-green, blue-green, blue-purple and red-purple.
Color wheel relationships
Colors opposite each other on the wheel are considered complementary colors. Common complementary pairs are red/green, purple/yellow and blue/orange. When placed side-by-side, they create maximum contrast and vibrancy.
Colors next to each other on the wheel are analogous colors. They have a similar hue and create harmony when used together. Examples of analogous colors are blue, blue-green and green or yellow, yellow-orange and orange.
How to use the color wheel for makeup
Understanding color relationships helps create cohesive, balanced makeup looks. Here are some tips:
Base and blush
Choose a foundation and blush within the same color family for a seamless finish. Opt for complementary colors to make cheeks pop.
Eyeshadow
Use analogous colors on the lids and crease for a smooth eyeshadow look. A complement color in the outer corner provides contrast.
Lips
Pick a lip color that complements the eyeshadow or outfit. Analogous lip and blush shades tie the look together.
Correcting undertones
Use opposite colors on the wheel to neutralize unwanted undertones. Green concealer cancels redness, purple counteracts yellow.
The color wheel for different undertones
The color wheel can also help determine which shades flatter your unique undertones.
Warm undertones
Skin with warm golden, peachy undertones are flattered by the warm side of the color wheel – yellows, oranges, reds, and greens with yellow undertones. Avoid cool blues and purples.
Cool undertones
Skin with pink, red, or blue undertones suit cooler shades – purples, blues, greens with blue undertones. Stay away from orangey yellows.
Neutral undertones
Skin with an even mix of warm and cool undertones work with shades all around the color wheel. However, pure grayish-beige neutral skin looks best in subdued, low contrast colors.
Here is a table summarizing the best color wheel shades for different undertones:
| Undertone | Best Colors |
|---|---|
| Warm | Yellows, oranges, reds, warm greens |
| Cool | Blues, purples, cool greens |
| Neutral | All colors in low saturation |
A complementary makeup look
Here is an example of how to use complementary colors from the wheel to create a makeup look:
1. Prep skin
Start with a warm, peachy foundation to flatter warm skin undertones.
2. Define eyes
Use an orange shadow across the lids, with a warm brown in the crease. Highlight under the brow with a shimmery champagne. Line eyes with black liquid eyeliner.
3. Add mascara and brow color
Coat lashes with black mascara and fill in brows with a neutral brown pencil.
4. Finish with blush and lips
Dust cheeks with a soft pink blush. Apply a blue-based red lipstick to contrast the eyes.
The orange shadow complements the blue undertones in the red lip for a vibrant duo. The pink blush also complements both the eyes and lips.
Color wheel makeup mistakes
While the color wheel can provide guidance, there are no hard rules in makeup. However, here are some common color wheel misses to avoid:
– Applying a thick band of terra-cotta blush with a cool pink lipstick. These colors are far apart on the wheel and clash.
– Pairing a vibrant violet eye look with a bright yellow blouse. These complementary colors can compete when used in large amounts.
– Using all analogous shades together. For example, an all-green eye look, mint blush and olive lips. This provides too little contrast.
– Assuming colors that suit your friend will also complement you. Always consider your own undertones.
Conclusion
Understanding color theory principles through the color wheel provides a helpful guide for choosing flattering, harmonious makeup shades. Analyze your undertones and use complementary colors for contrast or analogous colors for a smooth, blended look. While the color wheel can help steer you in the right direction, don’t be afraid to break “the rules” and get creative with color in makeup!
