When it comes to choosing the right colors for your skin undertone, pink is one of those shades that can be tricky. Whether warm, cool, or neutral undertones, pink comes in many shades and depths that can complement or clash with your complexion.
What are warm undertones?
Warm undertones refer to skin that leans towards yellow, peach, or golden hues. Those with warm undertones tend to tan easily in the sun, have brown, hazel, or amber eyes, and look best in metals like gold or bronze.
Some common characteristics of warm undertones include:
- Veins appear greenish
- Hair is strawberry blonde, red, brown, or black
- Skin has yellow, peachy, or golden hints
- Eyes are brown, hazel, or amber
- You look great in gold jewelry
If you identify with most of these traits, you likely have a warm skin tone. The pigments in your skin lean warm with hints of gold, which means you’ll look best in shades that have yellow, peach, or olive hints.
How to tell if a pink will suit warm undertones
When trying to determine if a pink will be flattering, here are some tips for those with warm undertones:
- Look for pinks with a yellow rather than blue base. Warm pinks with a coral, peach, or golden base will harmonize best with warm skin.
- Avoid cool bubblegum pinks or barbie pinks, which can make warm skin look drained.
- Opt for pinks with warm orange, red, or terra cotta hints over cool pinks with purple, fuchsia, or blue tones.
- Dusty, dusky pinks work better than neon or baby pinks.
- Darker, jewel-toned pinks are usually more warming than pale pink.
Generally, the pinks that will be most flattering on warm skin are ones that have a golden, peachy undertone. Think of pinks found in a sunset – warm pinks infused with coral, peach, melon, or amber hints. Stay away from cooler pinks that veer towards purple, blue or fuchsia undertones.
Best pink shades for warm undertones
Here are some of the best pink shades to try for those with warm undertones:
| Pink Shade | Description |
|---|---|
| Peach pink | Has a warm, peachy base that flatters golden skin. |
| Salmon pink | A pinkish orange that adds vibrancy to warm tones. |
| Coral pink | Bright yet soft pink with orange undertones. |
| Watermelon pink | A vibrant pinky red that pops against warm skin. |
| Cantaloupe pink | A sweet pink melon hue that complements golden undertones. |
| Desert rose pink | Dusky pink shade with warm terra cotta tones. |
| Fuschia pink | Vibrant, jewel-toned pink that flatters warm skin. |
| Dusty pink | Soft, earthy pink shade with warm undertones. |
These shades have a warm, yellow, orange or coral base that adds vibrancy to golden complexions. The peachier and more vibrant the pink, the better it will complement warm undertones.
Pink shades to avoid for warm undertones
While warm pinks are universally flattering on golden complexions, there are some shades that are less than ideal. Here are some pink shades those with warm undertones should stay away from:
- Baby pink – This pale, cool-toned pink can wash out warmer skin.
- Bubblegum pink – The blue undertones in this bright pink won’t pair well with warm hues.
- Hot pink – While hot pink adds vibrancy, it’s better suited to cooler skin tones.
- Lavender pink – The light purple base clashes with warm golden skin.
- Cotton candy pink – This pale, cool pink will make warm skin look drained.
- Barbie pink – The light, bright hue is more harmonious with cooler skin.
- Pastel pink – Soft pastel pinks lack the depth to complement golden warmth.
These shades tend to have purple, bluish or very pale undertones that don’t mesh well with peachier, warmer complexions. They can make warm skin look washed out or ruddy.
Tips for wearing pink with warm undertones
Beyond choosing the right hue, here are some top tips for making pink shades work with warm undertones:
- Add warmth – Pair pinks with warm metallics like gold and copper to make the look more harmonious.
- Create contrast – Pink pops more against warm olive or tan skin versus fair skin.
- Be vibrant – Opt for jewel tones and richer shades over soft or pastel pinks.
- Consider undertones – Look for pinks leaning towards peach, melon and terra cotta over purple or blue.
- Go for depth – Deeper pinks tend to be more warming than very pale or bright pinks.
- Mix and match – Combine pink with warm oranges, reds or yellows for a beautiful glow.
Using these strategies helps ensure the pink flatters, rather than fights with, your warm complexion. The overall effect should be radiant and lively.
How to wear pink for different occasions
Here are some ideas on wearing pink for various events based on your warm undertones:
Casual wear
For casual everyday wear, opt for pink shades like salmon, peach, melon, or coral pink paired with other warm tones. Wear a coral skirt with a peach top, pink jeans with warm brown booties, a watermelon hoodie with terra cotta accessories. Casual pink on warm skin looks great done colorfully and vibrantly.
Workwear
For the office, stick to muted, professional pink shades like dusky rose, pale terracotta, or soft peach. Pair a dusty pink blazer with a bronze shell and tan trousers, or a peach knit dress with nude heels. Keeping pink professional yet warm works beautifully for warm complexions.
Formal wear
For special occasions, make pink look formal and luxe by opting for jewel-toned shades like fuschia, raspberry, ruby, or rose gold. Pair a shimmering rose gold gown with matching heels and gold jewelry. Or wear a rich ruby pink cocktail dress with copper evening sandals and bronze clutch. Deeper, elegant pinks pop against warmer skin.
Summer wear
In summer, wear bright, fun pinks that match the season. Try a vibrant coral sundress, watermelon bikini, or cantaloupe romper. Pair with warm metallic sandals and accessories. Vibrant, fruity pinks suit a warm summer glow.
Winter wear
For winter, envelope yourself in warm pinks with a fuzzy fuchsia sweater, blush wool coat, or dusky pink turtleneck. Pair them with copper booties, cognac leather gloves, and bronze beanies. Deeper winter pinks complement golden warmth.
Conclusion
While pink may seem tricky for warm tones, the right shades can definitely work beautifully. Stick to pinks with warm peach, coral, or melon undertones over cool purple or blue based pinks. Vibrant, rich pinks tend to suit warm complexions better than pastel or pale shades. With the right hue and depth, pink can be a radiant, harmonious, and flattering color on warm, golden undertones. So don’t be afraid to add a pop of pink to your wardrobe – just be sure to choose a warm-based shade!
