How a Color Analysis Transformed My Life: A Guide to Shopping with Confidence
My CART Framework and how it helps me shop and find what looks best on ME.
At the start of this year, I embarked on a transformative journey: I got a professional color analysis. You’ve probably seen or heard of color analysis—it’s where your unique skin tone, eye color, and hair tone are assessed to determine which “season” suits you best. Turns out, I’m a Warm Spring, and this discovery has completely changed the way I shop, dress, and even think about myself.
Today, I want to walk you through the insights I gained, my newly developed CART framework, and how I’ve integrated this into my wardrobe and organizational systems.
Watch the full video walkthrough
The CART Framework: My Shopping Game-Changer
When I shop now, I follow the CART framework:
• Color
• Alignment (Kibbe)
• Repeatability
• Touch
This simple system has taken the stress out of shopping and helped me build a wardrobe I genuinely love. Let’s break it down.
C: Color
The first step is color. After my analysis, I realized how much better I feel and look in shades that suit my Warm Spring palette. Out went the blacks and grays, and in came vibrant reds, yellows, and warm pastels. For shopping, I use an app called My Colors to keep my palette handy, ensuring I stay aligned with shades that make me glow.
Pro tip: Find a professional near you. There are certified analysts worldwide, and they can pinpoint your season accurately. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone, regardless of gender. You can check out my full vlog on this experience here
Find Brenda from Mindful Styling (Local to Twin Cities + Virtual)
A: Alignment (Kibbe System)
Next, I discovered the Kibbe body type system, a method that categorizes people into 13 types based on their natural proportions. After some research (and lots of photos), I identified as a Soft Dramatic. This means my best looks involve draped, flowing fabrics with a touch of structure.
Here’s what changed:
• I stopped wearing sweatshirts and started investing in tailored dusters and dresses.
• Statement jewelry became my go-to instead of minimalist pieces.
The result? My outfits feel more harmonious, like they were made for me. If you’re curious about your body type, here’s a helpful guide to get started
Facebook Group: Freely Kibbe, body types and image ID
Reddit Community: r/Kibbe
R: Repeatability
Before, I’d buy something because it looked good on the hanger. Now, I ask myself: Will I wear this regularly? Living in a cold climate, I need layers, so I prioritize versatile pieces that can mix and match easily. Thanks to my cohesive color palette, almost everything in my closet works together seamlessly.
T: Touch
This was a surprising one for me. Fabrics matter—not just how they feel but also how they perform. Polyester may be cheap, but it’s essentially plastic. Now, I gravitate towards viscose, bamboo, or blends that breathe better and last longer.
If you’re interested in learning more about fabrics and sustainability, check out the book To Dye For link. It’s next on my reading list!
Organizing My Closet (and Life) with Notion
After transforming my wardrobe, I tackled its organization. My Notion setup has been a lifesaver, helping me track everything from clothing categories to the frequency of wear. I use my CLOSET framework here:
• Classics: Basics like skirts and pants.
• Layers: Cardigans, jackets, and outerwear.
• Outfits: Dresses and jumpsuits.
• Shoes: Self-explanatory.
• Extras: Accessories like jewelry and hats.
• Trends: Seasonal or experimental pieces.
Each item is tagged with its color, fabric, and whether it aligns with my Warm Spring palette and Soft Dramatic style. I even photograph outfits for reference! Check out my Notion Life Tracker template here.
Lessons from the Year
1. Shop in Your Season: Finding spring colors during winter can be tough, but shopping in season ensures you have access to the right shades.
2. Thrift Wisely: Thrift stores are goldmines, especially for unique finds that fit your palette and style without breaking the bank.
3. Experiment and Refine: Not every purchase will check all four CART boxes, but aim for at least three.
Why This Matters
As someone who struggles with analysis paralysis, the CART framework simplifies shopping decisions. It’s also a sustainable approach—less impulse buying and more thoughtful investments. Plus, dressing in colors and styles that truly suit me has boosted my confidence in ways I never expected.
If this resonates with you, start small: explore your color season, research your body type, and create a checklist for shopping. Trust me, it’s life-changing.