Echoing the lush renewal of spring, clothing in delicate blossom colors of peach, pink and cream are filling the stores. I’m delighted that “blush” colors are now a fashion trend. Blush is a pretty name for the skin tone colors I have always included in my palettes. Everyone is always surprised by this group of swatches and curious how to wear them. A skin tone is “kinder” than white, and throws a luminous light onto your face, as if being lit by candlelight. I’m always on the lookout for them and this season they are available in abundance.

The perfect skin tone varies depending upon your coloring. My palettes contain both light and dark skin tone swatches. The hue can be pale if you are caucasian and deeper if you have a richer skin color. For darker skin, the family of light reds will be the deeper skin tone. They vary from warm to cool, light to dark, just like the rest of the colors in the palette. For those turned off by sugary pink, a skin tone doesn’t have to be a pastel hue. Complex hints of taupe, tan, apricot, and orchid all cut the sweetness.

Texture is important too. I love the sheen of silk or velvet, and jewelry with the reflective quality like pearls or faceted stones. Matte textures of denim, jersey, suede, or a slubby linen can be dressed up or down creating a sophisticated, natural or playful look. Blush colored shoes, tights, belts, bags, scarves and outer and athletic wear are all having a moment and I’ve been using this luminous hue to lighten up ensembles in unexpected ways. This family of colors plays beautifully with everything from black, dark chocolate, forest, charcoal or navy to white, cream, taupe, pale grey, denim and reds. Light and dark skin tones look luscious together.

Here are some examples of how to wear a silky body suit with a light colored belt and a velvet camisole with light and dark shawls, made even more romantic with a delicate necklace. I’ve even toughened up the cami by pairing it with black leather. Check out the gorgeous strand of big blush pearls that tie together the studs on the jacket.

Softer lipsticks including Nutmeg, Sugarplum and Twig lip pencil are part of this “lit by candlelight” look. I’m wearing Royal, a rosy shade glistening with a touch of warm frost. The large pearl choker is by Simma Chester. The lovely delicate necklace is a creation of Lucia Antonelli. A rotating collection of one-a-kind jewelry is available in my studio, including some long ropes of blush pearls and earrings. Visit my web store for a lipstick or jewelry update. If are wondering what skin tone color, red or lipstick is right for you, give me a call and we can set up a session. You’ll be blushing beautifully.

A big thank you to Deborah Parrish for shooting the fashion photos.