Amanda Seyfried, light spring, and Reese Witherspoon, light summer

Nov 02, 2024

Light Spring vs Light Summer: What's the Difference?

When diving into the world of color analysis, it’s easy to mix up similar color seasons, especially those with shared qualities, like Light Spring and Light Summer. Both are part of the “Light” family, meaning they thrive in light, delicate colors, but their undertones and colors that flatter them differ.

This article will guide you through their similarities, differences, recommended colors to drape, and a final lipstick test to help you determine whether you’re a Light Spring or a Light Summer.

Similarities Between Light Spring and Light Summer

Both Light Spring and Light Summer share a preference for lighter, slightly brighter colors that are not too dark or intense.

People with these seasons generally have softer and low contrast features, and are often flattered by delicate, fresh colors rather than bold or deep tones. Both seasons:

Suit pastel colors that don’t overpower their light features.
Prefer softer hues over harsh or heavily saturated shades.
Have a low contrast between their skin, hair, and eye color, giving them an overall gentle, harmonious look.

Because of these similarities, Light Spring and Light Summer individuals can sometimes wear similar colors without issue, but they have distinct preferences when it comes to undertones and intensity.

Differences Between Light Spring and Light Summer

Light spring and light summer palettes, side by side

Despite these shared traits, Light Spring and Light Summer differ in two crucial ways: undertone and brightness.

Light Spring has a neutral warm undertone and leaning bright chroma. As a Spring season, Light Spring individuals look best in warm shades with a hint of brightness. Colors that work well for Light Spring often include warm pastels and sunny, fresh colors that mirror the lightness and warmth of early spring.
Light Summer has a neutral cool undertone and leaning soft chroma. As a Summer season, Light Summer looks best in cooler, soft colors with a touch of gray. This season thrives in shades that have a more relaxed energy, reflecting the light, airy feel of a breezy summer day.

In summary:

Light Spring: Warm and bright hues.
Light Summer: Cool and muted hues.

Colors to Drape: Determining Your Season

If you're unsure whether you are a Light Spring or Light Summer, draping is one of the best methods to test the waters. The right colors should naturally brighten your complexion, while the wrong shades may make you look dull or washed out.

Here are some colors to try:

Light Spring Test Colors: Soft peach, light coral, warm ivory, light turquoise.
Light Summer Test Colors: Pastel pink, cool lavender, sky blue, light gray.

By comparing these colors, you’ll start to notice whether warm or cool tones flatter you more, helping you pinpoint which light season you truly are.

Digital Drapes (Vivaldi Color App)

Amanda Seyfried with digital drapes: coral vs pastel pink

For example, Amanda Seyfried, who is a Light Spring, shines in spring coral. While she can also wear Light Summer’s pink shades (as Light Spring and Light Summer colors often overlap), the coral brings out the peachy, bright tones in her natural skin better than pink does.

Reese Witherspoon with digital drapes: coral vs pastel pink

On the other hand, summer pink brings out Reese Witherspoon's soft, cooler features, while coral has a slightly harsher effect on her.

Amanda Seyfried with digital drapes: baby blue vs sky blue

Here, the yellow-based baby blue highlights the natural warmth in Amanda Seyfried's face, while the cool, sky blue does not have the same effect.

Reese Witherspoon with digital drapes: baby blue vs sky blue

Meanwhile, Reese Witherspoon harmonizes beautifully with the sky blue, while the baby blue brings out an artificial yellow tone in her complexion.

The Lipstick Test: Light Spring vs. Light Summer

1. Lipstick Colors for Light Spring

Light Springs glow in fresh, warm-toned lip colors that highlight their soft, vibrant undertones. Using Vivaldi Color Lab's lipstick draping feature, try shades like:

Coral pink
Peach
Warm rose
Soft apricot

2. Lipstick Colors for Light Summer

Light Summers are enhanced by cool, delicate shades that match their subtle and soft coloring. With Vivaldi Color Lab's lipstick draping feature, experiment with shades like:

Soft pink
Cool rose
Light mauve
Sheer berry

By testing these lipstick colors, you can see which shades best align with your natural complexion. Light Springs will find that warm, lively tones add a radiant glow, while Light Summers often shine in cooler, more muted shades that complement their gentle contrast.

Use Vivaldi Color Lab to Compare Light Spring and Light Summer

If you’re still uncertain, the Vivaldi Color Lab app offers a digital draping feature that allows you to directly compare between Light Spring and Light Summer with a variety of colors. You can also experiment with different lipstick shades to see which ones look best.

By exploring these colors and makeup shades, you'll be well on your way to embracing your true color season and creating a wardrobe that complements your natural beauty.