Quite a few years ago, I was introduced to the idea that, if you want to look your best, you should “have your colors done.” The whole purpose is to identify the shades that flatter your natural coloring, helping you choose clothes and makeup that truly enhance your features.

At the time, my sister Judy was living in California. When I went to visit her, she announced that she was taking me to have my colors done. I had always worn cream, tan, brown—safe colors I could hide behind. Never, in a million years, would I have put on bright colors like red or purple.