Introduction to Francesca Valan
Francesca Valan is a distinguished color designer with a profound impact on the color theory applications across industries, from automotive to fashion. Teaching at prestigious institutions like the Politecnico of Milan and adjudicating in international color selection contests, her expertise has pioneered the integration of empirical color science into practical design. This collaboration with Jimei New Materials aims to redefine eyewear aesthetics through a meticulous understanding of color compatibility with human skin tones.
Understanding Color in Eyewear
Have you ever thought about how color influences our daily life?
Color is intrinsic to personal identity, especially in eyewear, which frames the face and is integral to the wearer's visual presentation. Traditional trends often dictate color choices, yet the subjective nature of color means what is trendy does not always harmonize with natural skin tones. This paper presents a color selection framework developed by Francesca Valan and Jimei that transcends fleeting trends by focusing on timeless, natural compatibility.
Methodology and Study
The project began with a comprehensive analysis of 23 skin tones and undertones - these tones are not boundaries but reference points to illustrate our method, ensuring inclusivity across diverse demographics. Francesca utilized a refined version of the color sphere to introduce the foundational understanding of color mapping. This model, illustrating colors around the equator with white at the North Pole and black at the South Pole, helps classify colors based on 3 color dimensions: hue, clarity, and saturation.
After a thorough analysis, we selected eight existing standard Jimei colors for each color category - red, blue, green, and natural tones - chosen for their harmony with human natural tones.
It is important to note that these color recommendations are suggestions based on chromatic harmonies and are not meant to be prescriptive. We encourage personal experimentation and adaptation, as individual preferences and unique features can influence the ideal color choice.
Our goal is to provide a starting point that enhances understanding and confidence in color selection, paving the way for personal and client-driven customization.
Preliminary Considerations Before Color Selection
Before diving into the specifics of color selection, it's crucial to conduct a thorough
assessment of the individual's natural features to determine which colors will harmonize best.
This initial evaluation should guide your approach and help tailor the color recommendations to each person's unique characteristics. Here are some essential questions to consider:
• Contrast Level: Look at the contrast between skin, hair, and eyes. Higher contrast might mean bolder colors are your best friend, while lower contrast might prefer gentler shades.
• Skin Undertone: Is it warm or cool? This will help you decide which color family
complements you best.
• Color Intensity: Consider the natural depth of your hair and eye color to pick
shades that amplify your natural beauty.
• Personal Style and Environment: Where and how will you wear these glasses?
Make sure your color choice is your lifestyle, whether it's for the office, a weekend getaway, or a special occasion.
• Existing Wardrobe: Think about what you love to wear. Choosing eyewear that fits with your favorite outfits ensures your new specs will get plenty of use.
• Lighting Conditions: Remember, colors change under different lights. What looks good in the showroom might look different under the sun or office lights.
By answering these questions, you can build a comprehensive profile that will inform your color selection, ensuring that the chosen eyewear not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also resonates with the wearer’s natural features and lifestyle needs.
Guidelines for Choosing Eyewear Colors Based on Color Tones
Red
The Color of Confidence and Charisma
Red frames are not just an accessory; they are a bold declaration of confidence and air. This vibrant color is perfect for those looking to make a strong impact. Here’s how to choose the right shade of red:
When to Use: Red eyewear can be striking and convey confidence. It's particularly
effective for those wanting to make a bold statement or to complement warmer skin undertones.
Finishing Tips:
• Solid Red: Ideal for formal or dramatic looks. Best on medium to high contrast skin tones where it won’t overwhelm the facial features.
• Milky Red: Softer than solid, suitable for daily wear. Works well on lighter skin tones, adding warmth without the intensity of a solid.
• Transparent Red: Offers a subtle hint of color. Good for very light skin or those seeking minimal color impact with a warm glow.
Green
The Essence of Versatility and Calm
Green is a versatile color that carries the essence of nature and tranquility. It adapts to various settings and is perfect for those who appreciate a touch of calm in their everyday lives.
When to Use: Green is calming and versatile, suitable for almost any occasion. It
harmonizes well with both cool and warm undertones, depending on the shade.
Finishing Tips:
• Solid Green: Best for those with darker or olive skin tones as it complements natural undertones while providing a natural earthy look.
• Milky Green: Excellent for softening angular features, suitable for average contrast levels, providing a muted yet refreshing color accent.
• Transparent Green: Light and airy, perfect for a casual, fresh look. Works best on
lighter skin tones, enhancing natural vibrancy without overpowering.
Blue
Universally Flattering and Adaptable
Blue eyewear is universally flattering, offering a spectrum that ranges from the most conservative to the most playful.
When to Use: Blue eyewear is universally flattering and can range from conservative to funky. It typically suits both cool and neutral undertones.
Finishing Tips:
• Solid Blue: Strong and authoritative, ideal for business wear or for those with high
contrast in their appearance.
• Milky Blue: Less intense than solid, good for everyday wear. Works across a wide range of skin tones, especially flattering on medium skin tones.
• Transparent Blue: Provides a subtle color lift, excellent for very light skin tones or for those who prefer just a tint of color.
Natural Tones
Elegance in Harmony
Natural tones are all about creating a seamless and sophisticated look that enhances or closely matches your own skin tone.
When to Use: Natural tones are excellent for enhancing or closely matching the wearer's skin tone for a harmonious and sophisticated look.
Finishing Tips:
• Solid Natural Tones: Use solid finishes to complement or closely match the wearer's skin tone for a refined, understated elegance.
• Milky Natural Tones: Ideal for creating a seamless look that blends subtly with the
wearer's skin tone, enhancing natural beauty without contrast.
• Transparent Natural Tones: Best used when you want to maintain a natural look with minimal color interference. Great for ensuring that facial features remain the focal point while still benefiting from color enhancement.
Conclusion and Vision for the Future
In the realm of eyewear, every pair of glasses is not just a product but a part of someone's identity. Our guidelines are crafted to assist designers and consumers alike in finding eyewear that does not just fit but flatters, enhancing individuality and self-expression.
As we move forward, Jimei is committed to leading the charge in innovative, inclusive, and environmentally conscious eyewear solutions, ensuring that every individual can find eyewear that truly reflects who they are, making each design not only a piece of art but a piece of identity.
Through these color guidelines, we invite the industry to join us in celebrating the unique beauty of every face, promoting a world where eyewear is as unique as the person who wears it.
