Even though neutral shades are very fashionable this season, evening gowns in bright colors are still a great choice – especially when almost everyone else has chosen a “safe” black!

But when it comes to choosing a colorful evening dress, it’s important to remember that while the right color will complement your skin tone and make you look bright and beautiful, the wrong color could have the opposite effect and make your skin look sallow and tired.

Generally, if your skin has cool undertones, evening gowns with cool, or “winter” colors will look best on you. Most women who have cool (pink) skin undertones look better in silver or platinum jewelry than they do in yellow gold, and the veins on the underside of their wrist appear bluish rather than greenish.

If you belong to the “winter” group, avoid gold, coral, and orange dresses and go with blue-based reds, true reds, purple, blue and pure white. This Royal Blue Satin Evening Dress, for example, is going to be perfect for you.

On the other hand, if your skin has a yellow undertone, you will look best with warm colors. This gold satin evening dress will look amazing on you, and so will this beautiful Olive Tiered Cocktail Dress.

When getting ready for your special night, remember that the same rules that apply to your dress should also apply to your makeup.