The universal colour palette: Shades that flatter every skin tone

SHAH ALAM – In the dynamic world of fashion, where trends come and go, certain colours stand out as timeless and universally flattering.

These hues have the remarkable ability to complement a wide range of skin tones, making them indispensable in any wardrobe.

Whether you are a seasoned fashionista or someone just beginning to explore personal style, make-up artist Nabilah Nordin or better known as Warnabilla and fashion stylist Andrea Wong explain further on universal colours that should be in your wardrobe – guaranteed to elevate your fashion game.

1. Navy blue

Wong holding a dark teal blue coloured dress as example for corporate outfit universal colour during the She Leads 2 Sinar Daily event.

The deep, rich shade of navy blue offers a sophisticated alternative to black, providing the same slimming effect while adding a touch of warmth, says Nabilah.

She also recommended wearing colour-blocking colours on a monochromic outfit for those wearing hijab to rock a favourite and usual go-to style, such as wearing neon colours along with the navy blue.

As for fashion stylist Andrea Wong says that navy blue will work well with any pastel blush pink colours and can soften a blazer look with a tinted skirt.

“This is a style that I often go for my corporate look," she said.

2. Emerald green

While most people opt for nude colours as safe colours or comfort colours at work, emerald green should also be considered a nude alternative in choosing the colour for a work outfit, says Warnabilla.

This may not been normalised before, but she said now the colour is becoming more familiar as many people are using it as not just a colour for important events, where the royalty wears it solely for their jewellery, indicating luxuriousness.

She said it can also be made as a casual colour that can easily be topped off with other colour-blocking colours, as prescribed by Nabilah, who is familiar with doing so, to make the outfit look bolder and more contemporary.

"Light blue; imagine how good it looks with emerald green," suggests Wong.

3. Dark teal blue

Wong holding two blazers of two universal colours that can be worn i.e. (from left) black and emerald green.

Dark teal blue combines the calming qualities of blue with the rejuvenating energy of green, resulting in a colour that is both soothing and invigorating.

"Teal blue always looks good for a blazer or pants with a pop of purple in the middle.

“Not many people find this colour at the store, but it is something that people should start eyeing to make a difference in their wardrobe,” Nabilla said.

For people who are just about to start playing with colours other than black, navy blue and emerald green, dark teal blue would be another great colour to collect for the wardrobe.

At the office, people might actually notice those who have never been noticed before, which can impress everyone from your boss to the colleague next to your desk, all of which is just a social cue that can be learned by the public to add a brownie point for their socialising ability.

"If you wear a teal blue blazer with a blush pink top, you can wear a plain hijab instead of a printed scarf," Warnabilla suggested to hijab wearers in the audience.

4. Burgundy

Burgundy, with its deep, wine-like tones, is a universally flattering colour that exudes richness and sophistication.

This shade works beautifully with various skin tones, offering a striking yet harmonious contrast.

"Too much red, such as bright red, is too much for some people, so burgundy is the safe colour to go for.

“It is elegant and very workplace-appropriate," says Warnabilla.

Meanwhile, Wong added these colours are alternatives to neutral colours which generally look good on most skin tones.

“These are just dark colours, but they look good; for example, burgundy looks good with bright orange; it will bring a great combination of tangy colours," Andrea added.

5. Dark purple

Wong holding a burgundy coloured dress as one of the example of universal colours for corporate outfit at Sinar Daily She Leads 2 event.

Dark purple, a colour usually deemed luxurious is a colour that brings out the best in all skin tones.

The colour can be worn in both casual and formal settings, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe.

6. Charcoal brown

Wong donning a charcoal brown coloured blazer as one of the universal go-to colours for corporate outfit during the She Leads 2 Sinar Daily event.

Charcoal brown is a sophisticated alternative to traditional neutrals like black, grey and beige.

The deep, earthy tone provides a grounding effect and complements a wide range of skin tones.

Charcoal brown is perfect for those who want a neutral base that still offers depth and interest.