Everything you need to know about color analysis, the True Hue Method, and what to expect — before you ever set foot in the studio.
you have questions.
we have answers.
you have questions.
we have answers.
the basics
How is this different from taking an online quiz or using an AI tool?
Digital tools guess. We measure. Screens distort undertones, phone cameras auto-correct your skin, and lighting changes everything. More importantly, most of us have a confirmation bias about our own coloring — we see what we expect to see, not what's actually there.
Live, professional draping is the only way to observe how different fabrics physically interact with your complexion in real time. That's something no filter or algorithm can replicate.
Who is color analysis for?
Everyone. We work with women, men, and teens of all ages, skin tones, and style backgrounds. Whether you're a fashion lover who wants precision, or someone who just wants getting dressed to stop feeling hard — color analysis works for you.
Our clients often book during a life transition: a new job, a weight change, becoming a mom, starting a business, or simply arriving at a season of life where they're ready to feel intentional again. But you don't need a reason beyond wanting to feel great in what you wear.
What is the 16-season method?
Most people have heard of the classic 4-season system (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter). The 16-season method by the International Image Institute goes significantly deeper — dividing each season into four distinct sub-categories based on your dominant color characteristics: hue (warm vs. cool), value (light vs. deep), chroma (soft vs. bright), and contrast.
This means instead of simply being "a Winter," you might be a True Winter, a Bright Winter, a Deep Winter, or a Cool Winter — each with a meaningfully different palette. The 16-season system is the most nuanced and accurate approach available, and it's the only method we use at True Hue Method.
what even is color analysis?
Color analysis is the process of identifying the specific spectrum of colors that naturally harmonize with your unique biology — your skin tone, eye color, and hair. The right colors make you look vibrant, rested, and alive. The wrong ones can make you look washed out, tired, or older than you are, no matter how flattering the style or how expensive the piece.
At True Hue Method, we use the advanced 16-season system — the most precise method available — to identify not just your broad season, but your exact seasonal flow within it. You leave with a permanent filter for every clothing, makeup, and accessory decision you'll ever make.
in-person sessions
how long does a session take?
The Signature Color Analysis typically runs 1.5 to 2 hours. The Essential (wardrobe-only) session is slightly shorter. Please give yourself a little buffer on either side so you don't feel rushed — this is your time.
How should I prepare? What should I wear?
Arrive with a clean face and no makeup. This is essential — even tinted moisturizer or mascara can subtly affect how we read your undertones, and we want to see your natural coloring clearly. If you're coming from work or an event, we have gentle makeup remover available in the studio.
For clothing, wear something simple in a neutral color if possible, and pull your hair back or away from your face. We'll be draping fabric around your neckline throughout the session, so low necklines or simple tops work best.
No need to do anything special with your hair color — we work with your hair as it is today, whether natural, colored, or highlighted.
Can I bring a friend or family member?
Absolutely. A supportive guest is always welcome to observe. If they'd like their own analysis too, check out our Duo and Trio packages — it's a genuinely special experience to see the science work on someone you know, and the shared packages offer great value.
Where are in-person sessions held?
All individual in-person sessions are held at our studio in Hartland, WI, serving the greater Lake Country area including Waukesha County, Milwaukee County, and Washington County. Group sessions, parties, corporate events, and speaking engagements can be arranged at your location — reach out to inquire.
virtual sessions
What if my photos aren't quite right?
If your submitted photos don't meet the requirements in our guide, I'll reach back out and ask you to reshoot. This isn't to be fussy — accurate photos are the foundation of an accurate analysis, and I'd rather take the extra time than give you a result that isn't truly yours.
Is the virtual analysis as accurate as in-person?
With properly submitted photos and our precise submission protocol, virtual analysis delivers the same 16-season accuracy as an in-studio session. The one meaningful difference is makeup calibration — because matching foundation and cosmetic shades requires observing your skin in person, this isn't included in the virtual session. However, your 20-page Seasonal Guide includes a full cosmetic section with curated shade guidance for your specific season.
What's the turnaround time for virtual sessions?
You'll receive your completed analysis, Seasonal Guide, and swatch wallet within 7 business days of submitting approved photos.
How does a virtual color analysis work?
After booking, you'll receive our detailed photo submission guide. This walks you through exactly how to photograph yourself for accurate analysis — lighting, angles, settings, and what to wear. Accurate photos are everything in a virtual session, so we're thorough about this step.
Once I receive your photos, I complete your full 16-season analysis behind the scenes within 7 business days. You'll receive your results, your custom 20-page Seasonal Guide, and your swatch wallet by mail — the same deliverables as an in-studio client, without the commute.
what's included & pricing
How much does color analysis cost?
Color analysis isn't a product you use once and replace — it's a permanent framework you carry with you for life. Every shopping trip, every getting-ready morning, every outfit decision becomes easier the moment you know your True Hue. Here's what that investment looks like:
Signature Color Analysis (in-person, full palette calibration with makeup bag edit & 5-minute face) — $375
Essential Color Analysis (in-person, full palette calibration only) — $275
Virtual Color Analysis — $275
Duo Package (2 guests, Signature each) — $695 ($347.50 each)
Trio Package (3 guests, Signature each) — $990 ($330 each)
Group sessions, parties, corporate events, and speaking engagements are priced by inquiry. Reach out to discuss your vision.
do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! Color analysis makes a genuinely thoughtful gift — for birthdays, Mother's Day, graduations, bridal showers, or anyone stepping into a new season of life. Physical gift certificates are available by request. Reach out to order one.
What do I receive after my session?
Every client — in-person and virtual — receives two signature deliverables:
Seasonal Swatch Wallet — Fabric swatches calibrated to your exact 16-season palette, designed to slip into your handbag. Use it while shopping to instantly know if a color is yours.
20-Page Custom Seasonal Guide — A comprehensive digital guide covering your power colors, neutral foundations, jewelry metals, and a curated cosmetic section tailored to your biology. (Apparel-focused only for Essential clients.)
Signature in-person clients also receive a custom makeup calibration during their session.
makeup calibration
What is the Advanced Makeup Masterclass?
The Masterclass is an exclusive add-on session for existing True Hue Signature clients. Bring in your current makeup bag for a full audit, and leave with advanced application techniques tailored to your season, a foundation match, and a custom shopping list of Elizabeth's curated recommendations. Available to Signature clients only — book as a follow-up to your original session.
What is makeup calibration and why isn't it included in virtual sessions?
Makeup calibration is the process of identifying the specific foundation shade, lip colors, blush tones, and eye shades that harmonize with your season. It's one of the most transformative parts of the Signature in-person experience — because seeing the right makeup on your face in real time is genuinely stunning.
It requires in-person draping because foundation matching and cosmetic color analysis rely on observing your skin directly under controlled lighting — something a photo can't fully replicate. Virtual clients receive a full cosmetic guidance section in their Seasonal Guide to help navigate their best shades independently.
group parties & events
Do you do corporate events or speaking engagements?
Yes! Color analysis is a fantastic fit for corporate wellness events, women's networking groups, team building, and keynote or workshop-style speaking engagements. If you're looking for something that's equal parts educational, visual, and genuinely useful — this is it. We can tailor to the event based on number of guests, timeframe allotted, and the goal. Reach out to start the conversation.
Can I book a color analysis party or group session?
Absolutely — and honestly, it's one of the most fun ways to experience it. Group color analysis sessions are available for girls' nights, birthday parties, bridal events, mother-daughter experiences, and more. Elizabeth comes to your location in the Lake Country area, and each guest receives their own full analysis.
Pricing varies based on group size and location. Reach out to inquire and we'll put together something perfect for your group.
a few more things
do you work with all skintones?
What if my palette doesn't match my current wardrobe or style?
This is one of the most common worries — and one of the most quickly resolved. Seasonal palettes contain dozens of shades, from deep neutrals to vibrant accents, and most clients discover their palette includes plenty of colors they already love. We never put you in a box. We give you a framework — one flexible enough to work with your personal aesthetic, your lifestyle, and the wardrobe you already have.
Many clients find that the pieces they reach for most often are already in their palette. The ones collecting dust? Usually not.
I've had my colors done before and it didn't feel right. Can you help?
Yes, and you're not alone in this. Color analysis has varying levels of rigor, and not all systems or practitioners are equally precise. The 16-season method is significantly more nuanced than the traditional 4-season approach, and many clients come to us after an experience that left them unconvinced.
If a previous analysis didn't feel true to you, trust that instinct. Book a session and let's find your actual frequency.
Absolutely. The 16-season system is designed to work with the full spectrum of human coloring — every skin tone, every ethnicity, every hair color. Color analysis isn't about fitting a narrow mold. It's about your unique biology, whatever that looks like.
