Alright Ottawa, let's talk Colour Analysis: Do you Really Need It?

Colour Analysis in Ottawa: Do You Actually Need It?

We've been hearing all about Colour Analysis this season and we think it's about time to have a full conversation about it.

Now, here's the background: Deb is very interested in this colour analysis and I'm not so much. I don't think you need it but hear us out and let's talk about it in the comments or at the shop.

What Colour Analysis Is

Colour analysis is where an analyst uses swatches to figure out which season you fall into, spring, summer, autumn or winter, and tells you which colours to build your wardrobe around. It's having a real moment again in Ottawa, and that's exactly why we wanted to weigh in.

Helen: Why I'm Not So Sure

I remember when my mother got her colours done in the 80s and she would go everywhere with these swatches of colours. Only buying what this lady told her to buy.

She was an avid swimmer and one day while she was at the pool someone stole her purse and I think she was honestly more upset about her colour swatches being stolen along with her credit cards.

Anyway, she got her colours done again and this time was given a new palette. So out went all her clothes that were in the old palette and in with the new.

Now, in 2026, that feels like so much wasted money and time. Not to mention the clothes that you used to love and get compliments on.

Here at Three Wild Women we can all tell when a colour suits and when it doesn't and no, we're not trained, but we can tell (we've been in retail for going on 30 years now!) We'll share what we think when asked and we won't let you leave not looking good.

That being said, let's let Deb have the floor and see what she says about all this colours conversation.

   

Deb: Why I Find This Fascinating

Deb here! Now I find this stuff fascinating. I've printed out all the different colour palettes and I have them in the back here at the shop so if you're curious as well just ask and I'll come get them for you!

I really think there's a nuance to all these colours and there's definitely colours I like better than others, especially on myself. But I think we look at ourselves the most, don't we?

When it comes to colour analysis, I think that you could look into it and see what the different seasons are and go from there. It's always going to be best when you can try the clothes on in person.

That's what all the books say! You have to try it on against your face because colour is perceived by the eye based on how the light bounces off things.

At the end of the day it's got to be about the style of the clothes as well, and there are styles here in the shop that I like better than others, but I think having a set of colours can make it a bit easier?

If you want to go the full professional route, please do! Come in afterward ready to build out a new palette! We're always happy to help with that next step.

Helen: Where I Agree

It's Helen again! And now that I will agree with! Even if it's not done by a professional. Before you come shopping check out the colours you have in your closet already and go through them. What colours do you like to wear, what colours could you add that help elevate your existing pieces.

Don't be like my mom and toss everything just because someone tells you to. It's just so wasteful, but you can add colours up right by your face that if you wanted to, could enhance your natural features.

A Few Questions We Get Asked

Do I need professional colour analysis to dress well in Ottawa? No. A trained eye helps, but trying pieces on against your own face in natural light will tell you almost as much, and it costs nothing.

Where can I try on clothes and get colour advice in Ottawa? Come by 263 Richmond Road in Westboro, Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. We'll always give it to you straight.

Who does professional colour analysis in Ottawa? A few we hear great things about are Capital Colour Analysis, Valley Vogue Styling Co. and French Touch of Colour. Bring your palette by after your session and we'll help you build it out. 

But, I will say, one thing that both Deb and I can agree on is that Rebecca Rowe who is NOT a colour analysis but a very good all around stylist would be the way to go for a more holistic approach at how to include colour but not hinge your entire look on it.