21/09/2025

ON SUNDAY September 21, 2025 theSunday Special V

For those curious about their skin undertone, Afiah offers practical advice: • Brown versus grey test: Use what ever you have in your wardrobe that is brown and grey. Stand by the window to receive natural light. Drape yourself in brown, then grey. Watch if any of your pigmentations change with each drape. This can also be done with orange versus pink, or cream versus white. • Jewellery test: If gold jewellery complements your skin more than sil ver, you might have a warm undertone. Conversely, if silver looks better, you likely have a cool undertone. • White fabric test: Hold a pure white cloth near your face in natural light. If your skin appears rosy, you might have a cool undertone. If it looks golden or yellowish, a warm undertone is probable. We often see the true undertone of a colour (aka your own undertone) when it sits next to another colour (a pure white fabric).

However, Afiah cautions that these tests are indicative, not definitive. Per sonal colour analysis is nuanced. It’s beneficial to consult a professional for a comprehensive assessment. Embracing your unique palette Ultimately, the journey to discovering your ideal colour palette is one of self awareness and empowerment. Afiah’s mission is to guide individuals towards choices that celebrate their natural beauty and individuality. “ Colour is a powerful tool. When used thoughtfully, it can enhance not just our appearance but also our confidence and self-expression,” she reflected. For those interested in exploring their personal palette, Afiah offers consultations through The Palette Prose, provid ing insights tailored to each individual’s unique character istics.

When you know your best colours, every purchase becomes part of a more intentional wardrobe.

“A prevalent misconception is that certain colours are universally flattering. Black, for example, is often considered a staple, but it doesn’t suit everyone and can sometimes appear harsh and draining,” Afiah explained. She also highlights the influence of cultural norms and trends, which can sometimes overshadow personal suit ability. “Fashion trends are transient. What’s important is finding colours that make you feel confident and authentic.” Another challenge is the emotional attachment to specific colours. Afiah en courages clients to remain open-minded, emphasising that the journey is about exploration and self-discovery. The impact of wearing the right colours Aligning with one’s optimal colour palette can have transformative effects. Clients often report feeling more confident, re ceiving compliments and experiencing a renewed interest in their wardrobe. “It’s rewarding to see clients embrace colours they previously avoided, only to realise how radiant they look. It’s a testa ment to the power of informed choices,” Afiah shared. Moreover, understanding one’s palette can lead to more sustainable fashion habits. By focusing on colours that truly suit them, individuals are less likely to make impulsive purchases, leading to a more curated and intentional wardrobe.

A fiah encourages clients to remain open-minded, emphasising that the journey is about exploration and self discovery.

“It’s essential to consider the unique characteristics of each individual rather than relying solely on racial stereotypes.” Once the sub season is determined, Afiah delves into the client’s preferences, lifestyle and wardrobe. This holistic ap proach ensures that the recommended palette aligns with the individual’s daily life and personal style.

Living in colour: Everyday hues influence our lives

tion. Blue is commonly linked with focus and efficiency, while green helps reduce stress during long working hours. Warm shades such as red or orange can stimulate conversa tion and creativity, which makes them better suited to collaborative spaces rather than quiet desks. Choosing the right palette for a workspace can create a subtle but effective boost in motivation. Food and appetite Colour also influences eating habits. A co lourful plate is not only more appealing to the eye but often more nutritious, thanks to the variety of fruits and vegetables it contains. Visual presentation matters; vibrant food against a clean, neutral plate tends to look fresher and more appetising. Darker tableware, in contrast, may suppress appetite. Being mindful of colour in meals can encour age healthier choices and a more enjoyable dining experience. Digital environments Screens dominate modern life and the colours we see online or on our devices impact mood as much as physical surroundings. Bright, bold tones can feel energising but may contribute to fatigue if overused. Softer, muted palettes are easier on the eyes and can create a sense

of calm during long hours of use. Customis ing digital spaces from wallpapers to app themes allows for a more supportive and less overwhelming online experience. Dressing with purpose Beyond fashion trends, colours in clothing can act as tools for self-expression. Intense shades such as red, cobalt or emerald can make a statement of confidence, while softer tones project approachability. Even neutrals have their place, offering versatil ity and understated elegance. Choosing colours intentionally helps communicate mood and personality without saying a word. Embracing colour mindfully Colour awareness is not about rigid rules but about understanding how shades affect energy and perception. From decorating a living room to setting a phone wallpaper, small, thoughtful choices can make everyday life feel more balanced, positive and authentic. Colour, when used with intention, goes far beyond decoration. It becomes a way to enhance well-being, boost confidence and create harmony in every aspect of daily living.

COLOUR is everywhere in what we wear, in the spaces we inhabit, in the food we eat and even on the screens we stare at daily. While often overlooked, the shades that surround us can shape mood, energy and overall well-being in powerful ways. The colours of home Interior spaces play a significant role in how we feel. Soft, cool shades such as blues and greens are naturally calming, making them well-suited for bedrooms

and relaxation areas. Warmer tones like yellow and orange can energise a living or dining space, adding a sense of warmth and vibrancy. Neutral colours, meanwhile, offer balance and versatility, serving as a backdrop for bolder accents. Even a simple addition of colourful cushions, rugs or art pieces can transform the energy of a room. Productivity and focus In work environments, colour has a measur able effect on performance and concentra