by Kate Stoltzfus (Pennsylvania, US)
When I discovered I was a Light Summer, it took me some time to embrace it and then, a few weeks later, I felt like everything suddenly made sense—my instincts, my preferences, even the colors I’d always been drawn to without fully understanding why. The Light Summer palette feels crisp and fresh, and the more I live in it, the more I appreciate how beautifully it supports who I am inside and out.
Here are my top five reasons I absolutely love being a Light Summer:
1. My colors are the “Goldilocks” versions—just right.
Light Summer colors hit the perfect sweet spot. They’re not overly bright, not overly pastel, and not overly muted—they’re the “just right” middle ground that creates vibrant, medium-soft tones.
These are the colors I used to overlook because I didn’t have language for them, but now I see they’re my absolute best. They give me life without overwhelming me, offering the perfect balance of coolness, brightness, and softness.
2. My Light Summer makeup feels effortless—and I love it.
My makeup routine creates zero stress. I reach for Geranium lipstick by Indigo Tones nearly every single day, paired with the Sorbet lipliner and Marvelous Monica Gloss. I also love Indigo Tones Marina Eyeliner and Ash Blonde Eyebrow Wax. My go-to blush is Happy by Rare Beauty. And I love Tartlette’s brown mascara. I don’t need to mix things up or second-guess myself—these shades harmonize beautifully with my clothing and my coloring every time.
There’s something deeply calming about knowing that your everyday makeup truly suits you. It’s one less decision to make, and one more way my palette supports ease and confidence.
3. I’ve finally embraced my natural hair color.
I was a very light ashy blonde as a child. When my hair darkened during adolescence, people started calling it mousy, dishwater, or dirty—words that made me feel like my natural color wasn’t good enough.
I started dyeing my hair as a tween and continued heavily blonding it into adulthood. It wasn’t until color analysis that I learned natural hair colors often harmonize beautifully with our palettes. That knowledge changed everything. (And has saved me so much time and money!)
I transitioned to balayage, and now for the first time ever, I’m embracing my natural shade with just a few babylights. I’ve retired the negative labels and replaced them with ones that feel elevated and true—“old money blonde” works for me!
4. The Light Summer community is inspiring and energizing.
One of the unexpected joys of this journey has been connecting with other Light Summer analysts, Instagram friends, and Facebook groups. Learning from people who have studied and lived this palette for decades has enriched my understanding so much.
I love seeing other Light Summers’ styling ideas, color combinations, and unique interpretations of the palette—and I equally love sharing my own discoveries with the community. It feels like an ongoing conversation, full of encouragement and creativity.
5. I discovered my neutrals—and fell in love with taupe.
Before color analysis, I assumed all tans were off-limits for me. I lumped taupe in with camel and dismissed it completely. I had no idea how beautifully Light Summer taupes would harmonize with my coloring.
Now taupe is one of my favorite neutrals. I especially love pairing it with Summer’s soft white, silver, or even gentle gold for the holidays. There’s something magical and almost ethereal about the combination—like a soft, elegant “snow queen” moment.
More at ease
There’s so much joy in embracing the palette that truly supports you. Light Summer has given me harmony in my wardrobe, confidence in my everyday choices, and a deeper appreciation for my natural coloring.
It’s not just about palettes or swatches—it’s about feeling more at ease in your own skin.
If you’re a Light Summer, I hope you feel proud of the delicate, luminous, beautifully balanced colors you get to wear. And if you’re still discovering your palette, I hope this offers a glimpse into just how transformative finding your season can be.
