Warm Autumn is warm and leans dark and shares characteristics with autumn and spring in the 12 season system of color analysis.
Warm Autumn is defined first by its place as a true warm season, seated in autumn, but borrowing a hint of brightness from its spring influence.
Are bright red maples and golden sunsets your favorite time of year? Do you love the orange of pumpkin spice, the red of a freshly picked apple, and the golden hay of a farm ride?
If you feel drawn to these colors and feel they accentuate your beauty, you might be a warm autumn!
The is a comprehensive guide to warm autumn in the 12 season system of color analysis. Keep reading to learn the physical characteristics, the best makeup, a beautiful color palette to wear, how to put together some outfits for each season, and how to create your own custom palette.
Table of Contents
The 12 Seasons of Color Analysis
Seasonal color analysis is a transformative method that reveals the colors that best enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence. This system examines the undertones of your skin, eyes, and hair, categorizing you into one of 12 distinctive color profiles.
The result? A personalized palette that emphasizes your inherent beauty, renewing your sense of self-assurance.
In this framework, there are six foundational color elements: warm, cool, deep, light, soft, and bright. Within the warm spectrum, the Warm Autumn palette stands out for its medium to deep, subdued hues.
The autumn color family includes soft autumn, warm autumn, and deep autumn.
- Soft Autumn
- Warm Autumn (you are here)
- Deep Autumn
Today, we delve into the rich beauty of Warm Autumn —a palette that reflects the richness of autumn’s muted tones with just a hint of fire.
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Am I a Warm Autumn?
You might be a Warm Autumn if everything about your appearance seems kissed by the sun. Your skin, hair, and eyes all carry a warm, golden quality that makes you glow, especially in the right colors. Whether your features are deep and bronzed or light and sunlit, there’s a golden thread that ties them all together.
Look closely at your eyes, no matter the color. If they sparkle with flecks of green, amber, or brown, you likely have the earthy undertones that mark this season. Your eyes often feel rich and inviting, and they harmonize beautifully with warm, natural colors.
If black seems to drain the life from your face (making you look washed out or even a little sickly), you’re not imagining it. While others may reach for black as a wardrobe staple, you shine far more brightly in earthy neutrals like camel, espresso, or warm olive.
And when you wear colors like pumpkin, moss, russet, or teal, people notice. Compliments seem to come a little more easily. You feel more energized, more you.
On the flip side, if the thought of wearing icy pastels or cool lavender makes your skin crawl (unless you’re in a bridal party), that’s another sign you’re living in the land of Warm Autumn.
Does this sound like you? If so, keep reading. We’re just getting started.
Still not sure? Try our AI Style Lab to get stylist inspired prompts to find your season, plus a community to explore your personal style.
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Warm Autumn is Warm and Leans Dark
War, autumn is classified in the following ways: warm hue, medium value, muted chroma.
- Warm hue – the undertone is always red, and this type also has a warm overtone, often peach or beige, which contributes to the overall golden expression.
- Medium value – warm autumn is typically medium to dark in value. Erring on the side of deep, as it bumps up next to one of the darkest seasons, warm autumn does best with dark warm tones.
- Medium chroma – the chroma leans toward muted, but not nearly as much as soft autumn. The flow influence of spring adds just a touch more saturation to this season.
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Warm autumn is one of the pure seasons, and as such all the features are warm. It is distinguished from the other true warm season of spring in value and chroma, with warm autumn leaning both dark and muted.
The skin tone of someone in the Warm Autumn category typically exudes a radiant warmth, enhanced by golden undertones that evoke the soft glow of a late autumn afternoon. This warmth in complexion may be akin to the gentle luster of polished bronze or the subtle richness of copper, embodying the essence of the Warm Autumn palette.
Eyes within the Warm Autumn spectrum often showcase rich hues of brown or green, frequently highlighted by a vibrant burst around the pupil—an element that adds a compelling, eye-catching quality.
The hair color for those in the Warm Autumn category varies from dark red to auburn, and includes deep shades of brown, often enriched with golden or red highlights. These highlights introduce a luminous, sun-kissed effect to the hair, harmonizing beautifully with the warm undertones of their skin and eyes.
Situated between deep and soft autumn, true/warm autumn is dominated by overall warmth. Warm tones upon warm tones, different from true spring in darkness and softness.
Warm Autumn Color Palette
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In creating a palette for warm autumn we start with neutrals, and work through the major color families. Black and white are out for autumn with pecan and ivory taking their place. Midnight navy and dark olive work well as neutrals, as do medium tans.
Warm autumn can wear the most brilliant and rich shades of red and orange. In the pink family, coral will work, as will garnet. Yellows and greens are also prominent in the warm autumn palette, ranging from mustard through sunshine, warm army and deep juniper. Warm blues and purples accentuate the bolder colors as well.
There is usually a version of every color that can be worn by any season, but some may be more difficult to match and find. Warm pinks often become deep coral, some reds may be too cool, any blue without green is also too cool. Purples are best that lean towards red instead of blue.
There are some colors that warm autumn should always avoid. Black and white have been mentioned as they are too stark and high contrast for warm autumn. Pastels should always be avoided as they lack the shaded aspect of warm autumn’s features. Colors should be either overly saturated or muted with gray to match the neutrality of warm autumn’s chroma.
Warm Autumn Colors for the Whole Year
When borrowing from other seasons, it’s helpful to consider those which share attributes. Many women like to choose colors that help them feel in touch with the calendar season, like pink in spring. For Warm Autumn, the following borrowing recommendations work across the whole year.
In Spring, borrow colors from warm spring to embody the lightness and brightness of spring. In Summer, borrow some colors from soft autumn to get that lighter summertime vibe. In Fall, stick with any colors in the three autumn seasons. In Winter, borrow from deep autumn to get the richness of the cold season.
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Warm Autumn Color Combinations
Color pairing is where the Warm Autumn palette really shines. These hues feel rich, inviting, and grounded in nature, like a walk through the woods at sunset. When you combine them thoughtfully, they radiate a warmth and strength that feels completely aligned with your natural glow.
Copper, tan, and mustard make for a cheerful, down-to-earth combination that’s perfect for autumn gatherings or casual weekends. Picture a tan knit sweater, copper-toned trousers, and a soft mustard scarf for just the right touch of brightness.
Dark brown and army green are your easy neutrals. It’s the kind of pairing that works for running errands or dressing up for work without ever feeling flat. These two colors create a sense of depth and calm confidence, and they’re perfect for outerwear or wardrobe staples like trousers, jackets, and boots.
Caramel and persimmon add that spicy warmth you’re drawn to. Persimmon makes a beautiful statement as a blouse or accessory, while caramel is a flattering grounding color for bottoms or outer layers. Together, they strike a balance that feels bold yet approachable.
Lagoon, almond, and black olive might surprise you, but this trio creates a sophisticated palette with just the right pop of contrast. Almond keeps things light and soft, black olive anchors the outfit, and lagoon adds a rich, unexpected splash of color that still plays nicely within your warm palette.
These combinations not only highlight your best features but also invite you to play with color in a way that still feels authentically you.
Warm Autumn Colors for the Whole Year
When borrowing from other seasons, it’s helpful to consider those which share attributes. Many women like to choose colors that help them feel in touch with the calendar season, like pink in spring. For Warm Autumn, the following borrowing recommendations work across the whole year.
In Spring, borrow colors from warm spring to embody the lightness and brightness of spring. In Summer, borrow some colors from soft autumn to get that lighter summertime vibe. In Fall, stick with any colors in the three autumn seasons. In Winter, borrow from deep autumn to get the richness of the cold season.
Want to save these graphics for quick access later?
Download the Warm Autumn Starter Kit to get the color images featured in this post. You’ll also get a bonus FREE color palette template to make your own colorful closet plan.
Choosing Prints for Warm Autumn
Choosing the right patterns is crucial in enhancing your Warm Autumn style. Your patterns should not only match your color scheme but also complement your scale and contrast levels to optimally flatter your appearance. Here’s the strategy to perfect it:
- Color Consistency: Ensure that less than 10% of the colors in your print fall outside your Warm Autumn palette. This maintains a cohesive and harmonious appearance.
- Scale: Opt for medium scale prints. Too small will get lost, but too large will overpower your lower contrast coloring.
- Contrast Level: Stick with low to medium contrast prints. Analogous pairings or colors with neutrals will create a great level of contrast for warm autumn types.
Following these principles will not only refine your Warm Autumn wardrobe but also enhance your confidence in selecting patterns. Explore our image collection below for handpicked examples that perfectly embody these guidelines.
Wardrobe Essentials for Warm Autumn Coloring
No matter your style or personal aesthetic, there are a few items that every woman should have in their wardrobe. When putting together outfits, use rich colors in the palette with neutrals. All the neutrals can be blended to create an outfit. Patterns can be bold and colorful. Mustard, bright coral, and dark teal are great statement colors. Medium to dark wash denim is preferred over light wash. Leather should be in the brown family, like mocha or cognac. Yellow and rose gold are great metals for warm autumn.
How Do I Build a Warm Autumn Capsule Wardrobe? Building a Warm Autumn capsule wardrobe is a streamlined process when you focus on your season’s best colors. Start with your neutrals like espresso, camel, and ivory which will serve as the foundation of your wardrobe. Then, add in your main color and 2-3 accent colors from the Warm Autumn palette. Colors like red, pumpkin, or hunter green work well.
Here’s a simple guide to create a color palette include:
- Base Colors: Camel and caramel
- Dark Neutral: Espresso or dark brown
- Light Neutral: Ivory or cream
- Main Color: Choose one from warm red or a deep green
- Accent Colors: Pick 2-3 from your palette, like yellows, warm teals, or orange shades
Click here to shop the Warm Autumn wardrobe essentials.
Warm Autumn Outfit Ideas
Warm Autumn outfits come alive when earthy tones and cozy textures come together in just the right balance. These four outfit examples show how you can mix rich colors, natural fabrics, and statement pieces to create looks that feel relaxed yet refined.
The first outfit is an effortless blend of mustard, dark brown, and copper. A copper leather jacket adds structure and shine over a soft mustard sweater, paired with dark brown pants that ground the look. The patterned scarf and coordinating accessories bring it all together. It’s perfect for crisp fall days, running errands, or casual meetups with friends.
In the second outfit, a hunter green dress takes center stage with a classic silhouette and playful polka dots. The addition of ivory and tan in the earrings, shoes, and cozy knit sweater keeps it light and versatile. A structured green handbag adds polish. This outfit works beautifully for brunch, a garden party, or even casual Fridays at the office.
The third look leans playful with a pumpkin mini skirt and printed blouse in cream and olive. A cream tee underneath keeps things grounded, while the accessories and sandals echo the warmth of the pumpkin hue. It’s ideal for transitional weather and warm autumn days when you want to feel both seasonal and stylish.
The fourth outfit delivers a little drama… in the best way. A caramel textured sweater contrasts beautifully with tailored plum pants. Burgundy accents in the earrings and necklace give it an elegant touch, while a plum tote and warm caramel mules round it out. This look is great for dinners out, casual business settings, or when you want to look put-together with minimal effort.
Each outfit brings out the richness of the Warm Autumn palette, showing how easy it is to create beautiful combinations that feel completely natural on you.
Makeup for the Warm Autumn Woman
To emphasize the features of warm autumn, makeup colors should be both warm and brightly rich as well.
For the eyes, choose bright gold and brown neutrals. For accent colors, think olive green, forest green, deep teal, and cream.
For the cheeks, rich warm shades of coral, peach, and copper are wonderful against the rich skin of warm autumn.
On the lips, never wear nude! The neutral lip for a warm autumn woman will in actuality be more of a toffee color. Wearing a light color such as nude will clash with the warmth of the other features.
Warm autumn can also wear the darker shades of wine, brick, and espresso. All these will offer a very bold option for lip color.
Avoid cool tones like pink or berry red lipstick, cool blue and green eyeshadows, and soft pink cheek colors.
Inspiration: The Natural Beauty of Warm Autumn
Warm autumn is typified by a palette that exudes warmth and a subdued, rich depth, drawing inspiration from natural and cultural elements that embody the season’s essence. Colors like deep toffee, brick red, fire engine orange, olive, cerulean, and plum vividly capture the spirit of a Warm Autumn individual, each shade resonating with the warmth of the season.
Exploring visual inspirations, the traditional six-color rainbow, known for its true-to-life and neutral colors, contrasts sharply with the Warm Autumn spectrum. This specialized palette shifts to warmer and slightly muted tones, reflecting the hues seen in an autumnal sunset or the earthy richness of the season’s change.
Visual Inspirations
- Fall Scene: The vibrant palette of an autumn landscape serves as a perfect muse for Warm Autumn. The brilliant golds and deep reds capture the essence of the season, providing a natural, vivid backdrop that complements the Warm Autumn color profile beautifully. These colors reflect the warmest options available, mirroring the fiery hues seen in fall foliage.
- Pumpkin Spice: Embodying the quintessential theme of fall, this color scheme draws from the rich shades found in pumpkin-related festivities. Burnt orange, tan, and marigold dominate this palette, offering a robust and earthy range that aligns perfectly with the Warm Autumn aesthetic. These hues evoke the warmth and comfort of a cozy, spice-infused autumn day.
- Scenic Drive: A journey through a landscape transitioning into fall reveals a breathtaking array of colors. The scenic route showcases nature’s splendor with leaves turning various shades of green, red, and orange. This natural display not only inspires but perfectly illustrates the dynamic and earthy palette characteristic of the Warm Autumn profile.
These natural scenes serve as a visual guide to understanding and embracing the Warm Autumn palette, inviting you to explore and integrate these rich, warm colors into your wardrobe and personal style.
Action Steps for Embracing Your Warm Autumn Palette
- Identify Your Colors: Start by familiarizing yourself with the Warm Autumn color palette. Keep it handy on your phone or print it out for quick reference when shopping. Buy the Warm Autumn guide here to go deeper.
- Purge Your Closet: Remove items that are far from your Warm Autumn colors or don’t make you feel good. Consider donating or reselling them.
- Invest in Neutrals: Buy wardrobe staples in your best neutral colors like espresso, beige, and ivory. These will be the backbone of your wardrobe.
- Choose Your Best Colors: Pick 2-3 signature colors from your Warm Autumn palette that you love the most. These will give your capsule wardrobe some variety.
- Plan Your Capsule: Following the 100 Piece Wardrobe Framework, build a capsule wardrobe around your neutrals and accent colors. Aim for versatility and cohesiveness.
- Shop Smart: When shopping for new items, always have your palette in mind. This will save you both time and money in the long run.
- Trial and Adjust: Don’t be afraid to experiment a bit. Wear your new colors and pay attention to the compliments you receive and how you feel in them. Make adjustments as needed.
- Seek Guidance: If you’re struggling to implement your Warm Autumn palette, consider seeking professional help. A color analysis session can be a transformative experience.
- Celebrate You: Remember, God made you beautiful in your unique way. Embrace your Warm Autumn attributes as a reflection of His creativity.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to simplifying your wardrobe while looking your best, feeling confident, and honoring your uniqueness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Warm Autumn
What’s the difference between true autumn and warm autumn?
True autumn and warm autumn can be the same or different depending on what classification system you are using. True autumn is part of the original 4 season system and is also used in the 16 season system to denote the “original” autumn. This would be muted, dark, and warm. True autumn is between warm and deep autumn in the 12 season system. Warm autumn is noted in the flow system as having a bit of extra brightness as it’s secondary is spring.
How do you know which autumn you are?
The autumn seasons are distinguished by variance in chroma and depth. From soft to deep, they go from muted to medium chroma and medium to dark in value. The best way to determine which autumn season you are is by having a color analysis performed.
What colors should warm autumn avoid?
Autumn should avoid bright cool colors like those found in winter, and light cool colors like those found in spring. Warm Autumn individuals should avoid colors that are too cool or stark, as these can clash with their naturally warm undertones. This includes true whites, which can be too harsh; they are better suited to creams or warm off-whites.
Neon colors, cool blues, cool greys, and bright, icy colors like icy lavender or icy pink should also be avoided. These shades can make Warm Autumn complexions appear washed out and do not harmonize with the warm, earthy tones that best enhance their natural coloring.
Can warm autumn wear beige?
Warm Autumn individuals can wear beige, particularly if it leans towards richer, warmer tones like camel or sand. These variations of beige complement the natural depth and warmth of the Warm Autumn palette, enhancing their earthy aesthetic.
Can autumn skin tone wear blue?
Yes, individuals with an Autumn skin tone can wear blue, especially when they choose warmer shades such as teal, turquoise, or marine blue. These hues blend beautifully with the rich, warm palette typical of Autumn, adding a vibrant but harmonious splash of color to their wardrobe.
Can a true/warm autumn wear gray?
Yes, a true or warm Autumn can wear gray, though it’s best to choose shades that lean towards brown, such as taupe. This ensures the gray harmonizes with the warm, earthy undertones typical of the Warm Autumn palette, maintaining a cohesive and flattering appearance.
Can autumns wear forest green?
Absolutely, forest green is a powerful color for those with an Autumn skin tone. This deep, rich shade not only complements the warm, earthy hues typical of the Autumn palette but also enhances their natural coloring, making it a standout choice for creating impactful and harmonious outfits.
Can a warm autumn wear black?
Of COURSE you can still wear black. I personally believe that black is a staple in any wardrobe. Any season can wear black, but some may find it is overwhelming. As a warm autumn black is best kept to pieces worn on the lower half of the body. Black isn’t your BEST color, however, as you’ll find mocha, cognac and olive are more flattering. However, if you are building a capsule wardrobe around dresses, I highly recommend using black as a base simply because you’ll be able to find items easier.
I hate these colors, could my season be wrong?
Yes absolutely, it could be true. But I want to challenge you, what is it that you hate? Is it the neutrals that you don’t like? Perhaps you don’t like brown? Refer back to my statements above about wearing black. Is it one of the color families, yellow or orange perhaps?
Don’t wear them! Just because a palette includes all these colors doesn’t mean you should wear them all. I dare you to look at your closet and see if you naturally gravitate to any of these colors. If the answer is no, and you still feel this is completely wrong, let me know! I can help!
Can I only wear these colors?
No way! You should wear what you love! If you want to wear lavender, then go for it! You may find, however, that learning your season affects how other colors make you feel. If you feel confident rocking a color, then it’s yours to own. But if you don’t, feel free to leave it to the seasons that wear it well. If you’re looking to expand your palette, you can also consider sister seasons.
Final Thoughts on Warm Autumn
Warm Autumn is a season full of richness, depth, and grounded warmth, and your wardrobe can reflect all of that beautifully. From earthy neutrals like tan and dark brown to saturated tones like persimmon, copper, and pumpkin, your palette is full of colors that bring life to your natural glow.
If you saw yourself in Warm Autumn (golden features, warm-toned eyes, and an aversion to icy pastels), you’re likely someone who thrives in these cozy, spicy tones. You probably already know that black makes you feel a little off, but when you slip into colors like olive or mustard, something just clicks. You feel more alive, more vibrant, more you.
Exploring the color combinations and outfit ideas tailored for Warm Autumn is a powerful way to embrace your natural beauty without overthinking it. Whether you’re layering copper and tan for fall errands or pairing plum and caramel for a more elevated look, the goal is to feel effortlessly pulled together in your own skin.
Let your Warm Autumn palette guide you as you refresh your closet, experiment with outfits, or finally build that dream capsule wardrobe. Your colors were made to complement you —not compete with you— and when you wear them, you shine with ease.
Are you a Warm Autumn? Let us know in the comments!
Related Color Analysis Articles:
- Best Online Color Analysis
- How to Declutter Your Closet Using Color
- Neutral Wardrobe Colors
- Warm Spring vs. Warm Autumn
Warm autumn sits on the cusp of spring and autumn and leans dark and soft.
Stacey is the owner and creator behind Radiantly Dressed. She is a certified image consultant and AICI member focusing on creating simplicity in wardrobes via color and style.
Hello! I am a warm or deep autumn. My mom told me years ago and it’s my favorite season! My birthday and anniversary are in October! I’m excited to try some more of the autumn colors!
The autumn colors as so beautiful when you put them together!
Thank you I finally know the exact season I am.The eye color and pattern confirmed the other results.
I just love these colors! I have always expressed to others that my favorite colors are the fall leaves…and the colors in a sunset! Very fitting!
I’m glad the colors are ones you’re naturally drawn to! I maintain that we’re automatically drawn to our best colors!
Thanks for the wonderful musings! True autumn here 🙂 Is it possible to have a True Autumn chart of colors to wear all year; as you did with Soft and Deep? Thanks!!
Hey Danielle, I’m updating these one at at time to add those changes! If you follow me on Pinterest that will be the fastest way to see when it’s posted!
Hello there! I had the same question. Just checked and followed your pinterest and don’t see it yet, but I’m excited to see it in the future! Thank you so much for all your work! 🙂
I would enjoy your thoughts on what happens when a True Autumn’s hair goes gray? Does one stay a True Autumn or move to a Soft Autumn?
Hey Jan!
It’s going to depend upon how much the contrast changes. I have seen a Deep Autumn stay deep through graying hair. In this case it probably depends on how much pigment is lost, whether you go to caramel or much lighter like flax. But an Autumn can always wear the full range if you want! Hope this helps!
This is 100% me
I am born in May (Autumn in my country) I love and much prefer the cooler/cold weather.
My skin tone, hair and eye colour is all very warm. And I naturally gravitate to the matching colour palette for cloths and makeup.
Spot on.
I found your page when searching for eye colours and patterns and I recently grew more and more intrigued by my own eyes.
Still haven’t found anything lose on the net
So rich palette))
I’m a warm to deep autumn?? My best colours seem to straddle them. Honey and Army have a special effect on me, but so do Copper and Sangria from your deep autumn page. Fire looks good too. Cream and ivory worn with brick or army-green tones in a sweater? Heaven. And … I look good in a few deep winter colours too like navy, brick and some teal/turquoise and even black and white. But I look awful in some other deep winter shades like purple or true dark green, and even my good winter shades mostly don’t have that super effect. So I’m afraid I am one of those that doesn’t fit perfectly, I’m warm to deep Autumn borrowing a touch of winter. With blue eyes and dark ash brown hair and Dutch olive skin.
(My son fits perfectly into Soft Autumn, and my mother into Soft Summer, I’ve never seen such clear matches as those two.)
Hi Susie,
Warm autumn is a true warm season and would struggle borrowing anything from winter. Deep Autumn is most likely.
Stacey
Hi Stacey!
Thank you for such thorough information on these color seasons! I was analyzed professionally online to be a true autumn and I just can’t believe that’s correct. She said my undertone is neutral leaning warm. ( I’m olive) Also told me my “sister season” is summer…Could that be true autumn? I can wear colors from both warm and cool palettes, but aside from the neutrals I would never ever wear most of the autumn palette. I’ve lived forty years with the conviction that cool and dark colors bring me to life. I dislike those autumn colors so much.
I read somewhere that it’s possible to not be a season at all; that some people are more defined by the value or chroma rather than the temperature. What are your thoughts on that?
Thank you!
Hi Stacey,
I was recently typed as a true autumn (12 season) by an online analyst, who said my undertone was neutral leaning warm. I don’t feel right in most of the autumn hues, they feel too warm and are definitely not colors that flatter me. My skin is olive and eyes are green. I was also advised that I could dip into cool seasons and that my sister season was summer. Could it be that for some of us, we are more defined by the chroma or intensity rather than hue? I’m trying to define a palette for myself but being neutral makes it a little more challenging. Any advice would be appreciated. I love the thorough posts you’ve created that define the hue/intensity/chroma of the seasons.
Thank you!
Hello! Stumbled upon your article last year and have since been going back and forth to refer to it whenever I buy my clothes and makeup. You have helped me a lot and I’m so happy to discover and wear colors that match me better than others. It has also helped a lot in my confidence and comfortability in choosing the best colors for myself. Thank you so much!
Hi Stacey!
Could a light-medium blonde be a warm autumn? My daughter seems to match all the hue, value and chroma features but she is blonde and quite pale
Thank you SO much!!