Wednesday, January 9, ladies from all over Laurel and Jones County, seeking to begin their new year with a new look, gathered at the YWCO for the “Looking Your Best with Color” workshop, presented by color consultant and personal fashion stylist Catherine Nowicki.

Nowicki explained that certain colors look best on a person depending upon the color and shade of their hair and eyes and that these colors fall into four categories, which are named after our four basic seasons; fall, summer, winter and spring. Also, within each season individuals can be either warm or cool and soft or clear.

“It can get confusing,” exclaimed Nowicki, “and that’s where a consultant comes in.”

“People don’t stay at the same season, either,” explained Nowicki. She said that as a person’s hair color changes over the years, so does their season. When younger, one could be a warm winter, but as they age they could become a soft cool winter.

Using a couple of members of the audience, Nowicki demonstrated how by adding something as simple as a scarf with colors from the person’s correct color season pallet can brighten and enhance a person’s overall appearance. By adding just a little blush and lip color in the person’s correct season, she was able to demonstrate what a difference correct makeup colors can make as well.

“I’ve never worn blush or lipstick because I felt like it made me look like a floozy,” exclaimed Virginia Bennett, who was chosen by Nowicki to participate in the demonstration. But, after seeing how she looked in the colors Nowicki used that were in her correct season, Bennett was reconsidering.

Nowicki also shared a trick when choosing what to pack for a long week-end trip that could result in only needing to carry one suitcase for clothes.

“Pick three colors from your pallet to focus on when choosing what to take – two neutrals and one main color,” said Nowicki.

When choosing, Nowicki suggested packing coordinating clothes that include two pairs of pants, two tops, two skirts, a long sleeve T and tights. For footwear include a pair of flat shoes, a pair of dress shoes and/or either short or tall boots. For accessories carry a Pashmina (fancy name for a shawl), scarf, good belt and festive costume jewelry. Then add your skin care and make up and lingerie.

“And always carry a swim suit, no matter whether it’s summer or winter,” suggested Nowicki. “You will wish you had when you see everyone having fun in the inside heated swimming pool that so many hotels now have.”

In addition to sharing the packing tips, Nowicki suggested a list of “must haves,” which includes a Pashmina, nice looking watch, classic earrings, a good belt, neutral color pumps, a versatile jacket that can be worn with a skirt or pants or just as an outer jacket, and one or more fun pieces in your wardrobe style.

“I really enjoyed the workshop,” exclaimed Juanita Parker. “It was so informative and entertaining. I really liked the information on how to pack for a trip.”

“Well, I learned that I’ve been wearing the wrong colors,” exclaimed Tresia Roddey laughing.

Over 20 ladies left the Y Wednesday with new ideas and information on how to look their best in 2013.

Nowicki began her career as a color consultant and personal fashion stylist over 20 years ago in Maryland. She is married to local physician Dr. Steven Nowicki and offers private color analysis for women and men, personal wardrobe selection, closet cleaning, personal wedding consultant and speaks to organizations throughout the country. Nowicki may be contacted by calling 601-649-1034.