Forget concealer! According to stylists, the key to no longer looking exhausted is hidden in a color that we all have in our wardrobe.
We all have those complicated mornings where the mirror doesn’t seem to be on our side. Too short a night, accumulated stress, dull complexion… and yet, you have to appear in good shape, if only to look different at the office or during an important meeting. Good news: according to several stylists, there is a magical color capable of erasing the signs of fatigue — or at least making others forget them.
Before revealing which one, we must understand why colors influence the perception of our face so much. The tones we wear close to the face (shirt, sweater, scarf, jacket, makeup, etc.) can either brighten our complexion or accentuate shadows, dark circles or redness. Some shades instantly warm the skin, others, on the contrary, “suck in” the light and make us look tired, even if we slept eight hours. Stylists and colorists talk about the contrast effect: the more the color highlights the natural tone of your skin, eyes and lips, the more your face will appear fresh and rested.
When you are pale, dark circles or your complexion tends towards gray, certain colors are real enemies, such as beige, taupe or gray, which can be too close to the skin tone and blend the face into the clothing. Khaki green or mustard yellow can accentuate redness or paleness. Conversely, certain shades instantly energize the complexion. This is particularly the case for this bright color recommended by a stylist in the online magazine RealSimple. And this miracle color is red.
Red, in its multiple shades — carmine, poppy, cherry, burgundy, vermillion — creates an immediate effect of energy. Worn close to the face, it gives a healthy glow, erases dark circles and draws the eye towards the lips and cheeks rather than towards the shadowy areas. Stylists also note that red acts as a visual “lift”: it energizes the look and unconsciously transmits an impression of vitality, confidence and assurance. “Think about how a person dressed in red catches your eye, or how you can’t help but stare at a flaming red car passing by. Red is one of the most stimulating colors in the color palette, as it is associated with strength, passion and energy“, explains Julia Pukhalskaia, fashion stylist. Before adding: “In case of fatigue, red is an energy stimulant; it can amplify your energy and draw strength and confidence.”
So the next time you’re feeling exhausted, ditch your gray sweater and throw on a red top: it’s the easiest — and most stylish — way to look great without extra coffee.
