The Jill Kirsh Color System

For Jill Kirsh, it’s all about the color combos. Jill Kirsh Color, founded in LA, is a cutting-edge fashion consultancy system that is based entirely around your hair color, the pinnacle life-changing starting block.

Kirsh has spent the last 20+ years making over well-known musicians, actors, news anchors, business leaders, soccer moms and rocker moms from around the globe, helping them to “visually pop!” Her video tutorials on JillKirshColor.com is a do-it-yourself wardrobe and make-up makeover system based on her years of consulting and one-on-one work with clients from all over the world. We got to have a chat with her about first impressions, expert tricks and why your hair color is the most important thing.

Vivanista: How did you get your start?

Jill Kirsh: I grew up in NYC and both of my parents worked in the fashion industry, so I grew up surrounded by designers, buyers and clothing manufacturers. I’ve worked on the retail as well as the wholesale side of the industry, so I know it well.

V: What is your first impression of someone you just meet?

JK: I consider all the incredible possibilities there are with just a little tweaking and some knowledge! There was a gal I saw at the bank today, she was a beautiful redhead, but she was wearing a dull grey suit. What is up with redheads and heather grey? The color made her look older, washed out, and made her beautiful, warm locks look like a bad dye job! I just see all the potential that exists and how each person can maximize their assets.

V: Why start with the hair color first instead of skin tone?

JK: Your hair is what frames your face and you have to know how to work it so that your wardrobe, make-up and hair color are all in sync. Over 95% of my clients color their hair. They add highlights and lowlights for fun or to cover gray or they make a major hair color transition just to try something different. You can pull the whole look together by wearing complimentary shades for clothing and makeup.

V:What’s your recommendation for someone who has already invested a lot in a wardrobe that is the wrong color scheme for them?

JK: Everyone can wear most every color – the trick is knowing the best shades of each color for you. It’s best to have all of your colors in sync from head to toe (polish!), but if your wardrobe veers a bit off in the wrong direction, the right accessories (jewelry, scarves) and makeup shades can help put in back on track.

V: What do you think holds women back from trying a new look?

JK: Sometimes we get stuck in what we’re used to, what our friends wear, things our moms always said to do. Sometimes there’s just too many choices. This is one of the main reasons why I launched my system. It puts women at cause and not at the effect of everyone else’s viewpoints. Fashion and makeup are FUN! By knowing everything that works for you and having all the right shades in a customized swatch book, you can’t make a mistake. It’s truly a system that allows you to be your own stylist!

V: What are some key differences you see between women and men when it comes to color?

JK: I have a huge number of male clients. The color choices for the guys are so vast and can be so overwhelming. When they have the knowledge of what works for them, they have fun (really, they do) pulling together a wardrobe from the suit, shirt and tie to looking totally put together on the golf course! Some of my clients have even given gift certificates to their friends for a one-on-one color session with me. Most of my “hate to shop” guys have become the biggest clothes horses!

V: A good trick for dressing up your day look for the evening?

JK: Shimmer is great fun for evening. Make sure to shimmer in the right shade! If your hair is golden brown or red, or if you’re a warm blonde, then a golden shine is the way to go. If you’re a deep brunette or have ash blonde or platinum locks, then shimmer with silver.

Get to Know The Color Behind The Colorist

East coast or west for summer fun?

JK: Both – depending on who’s there with me!

Salt or sugar?

JK: Sugar!

The one word that best describes you?

JK: Enthusiastic!

What’s on your ipod?

JK: The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Jierra, Aretha.

Your idea of perfect bliss?

JK: Running around NYC at Christmas-time with my husband and daughter.

Obsolete item you absolutely won’t toss?

JK: A fabulous black suede lace up the front dress from back in the day.

Jill Kirsh would love to answer any color questions you may have. Please submit your questions in the comments section below!

[Photo from erin is a star via Flickr]