We never expected a color analysis experience to change how we shop, how we show up at work, and how we feel in our bodies. But here we are—two forensic professionals with curated closets and a renewed sense of confidence.
Let’s back up a bit.
At the beginning of 2024, we were following Jesse Itzler’s “Big Ass Calendar” system, which encourages you to schedule six “mini adventures” each year. The goal? To ensure your calendar isn’t only packed with deadlines and department meetings, but also filled with personal moments that energize and restore you.
When an invitation arrived to speak at the IDEMIA Users Conference in Oklahoma City, we immediately added it to our adventure list. But we weren’t just going for the conference. We were going to get our colors done—something Ashley had been curious about for years.
Here’s what else made our adventure list:
- A company retreat on a Royal Caribbean Cruise
- A visit to The June Motel in Canada (inspired by the Netflix show Motel Makeover)
- Seeing Taylor Swift live at the Eras Tour!
- And of course, a color analysis experience in Oklahoma City
Why We Were Drawn to Color Analysis
Ashley had been following Abbey from House of Colour OKC on Instagram since the pandemic. She was drawn to Abbey’s vibrant style, her authenticity, and how she made color analysis feel both fun and transformative. Ashley even tried to find someone closer to South Carolina, but no one stood out like Abbey.
So when we were headed to Oklahoma City anyway, Ashley asked, “I want to finally do this. Want to do it with me?” Erin said yes without hesitation. Appointments were booked.
Our House of Colour Experience
What to Expect at a Color Analysis Appointment
We showed up to Abbey’s studio with zero makeup, as instructed. Natural light is essential, so we sat facing a window. To remove distractions, Abbey handed us white hairnets. Not the most glamorous moment—but trust the process!
Then came the draping.
Abbey draped fabric after fabric across our shoulders, watching how the colors interacted with our skin, eyes, and natural undertones. Some colors brightened our complexion, made our eyes sparkle, and gave our skin a healthy glow. Others? Instantly washed us out.
It was subtle at first—especially when you’re the one in the chair. But watching each other made the difference crystal clear.
The Big Reveal
Erin is a Spring
clear, bright, light, warm
Ashley is an Autumn
rich, warm, earthy, vibrant
Once our seasons were confirmed, Abbey helped us:
- Color match foundation to our skin tone
- Try on blush and three seasonal lipstick shades
- Identify whether gold or silver jewelry suited us best
And at the end of it all? We each received a wallet-sized color swatch book with all the shades in our season. The idea is to use this as a shopping guide. And trust us—we use it every time.
What Made Abbey So Exceptional
Abbey’s passion for color is contagious. She’s a new mom who openly shared how depleted and disconnected she felt in her post-baby body. But when she discovered color analysis, it helped her reconnect with herself. It was life-changing—and she wanted to help others feel that way too.
She made us feel welcome, excited, and totally seen. Her stylish outfits were proof that living in your colors looks and feels amazing.
A Meaningful Conference, Too
We’d be remiss not to mention the IDEMIA conference itself! The venue was top-notch, and the programming was even better.
Two keynote speakers, in particular, left a lasting impression on us:
The first was Amy Downs, a survivor of the Oklahoma City Bombing. Her story was sobering—but also deeply inspiring. In the years following the bombing, Amy didn’t just recover—she reinvented her life. She lost over 100 pounds, became a triathlete, returned to school, earned her MBA, and ultimately rose through the ranks to become the CEO of Allegiance Credit Union (formerly Federal Employees Credit Union). And she didn’t just become a CEO—she became an award-winning one. Amy’s message was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when resilience and determination meet opportunity.
We also had the privilege of hearing from Special Agent Barry Black, who was part of the federal response team that investigated the Oklahoma City Bombing. His firsthand account of the investigation brought a new level of gravity and respect to the conference, highlighting the dedication and bravery of forensic professionals during one of the nation’s darkest days.
Both speakers brought home an essential theme we carried with us for the rest of the trip: the power of presence, healing, and choosing how you move forward—whether in life, leadership, or the line of duty.
Hearing their stories gave us an even deeper appreciation for the city we were visiting—and for the importance of remembering and honoring the past. It felt only right to take time to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum while we were there.
We knew we couldn’t leave Oklahoma City without visiting the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. The field of empty chairs—small ones for the children, large ones for the adults—was heartbreakingly beautiful. Each chair represented a life lost, a family changed forever.
Inside the museum, we walked through the events minute by minute, guided by haunting audio and video footage. It was emotional, powerful, and a reminder of how quickly life can change—and why presence, perspective, and personal connection matter so much.
After an inspiring (and emotional) trip, we returned home energized—and ready to put what we learned into action. As much as the trip stirred our hearts, the color analysis experience sparked a totally different kind of transformation: one that started right inside our closets.
What Happened After Color Analysis
We got home and immediately started purging our closets of anything that didn’t align with our seasons.
The Surprising Benefits:
- Clothing decisions became easier. When everything in your closet works together, getting dressed is simple.
- Confidence went up. We started getting compliments—a lot of compliments. From friends, coworkers, even strangers.
- Shopping got easier (and faster!). With our swatches in hand, we skip over anything that doesn’t belong in our season.
- Less clutter, more joy. Our wardrobes are smaller, but so much more functional.
How This Ties Into Forensic Wellness
In the world of forensics, decision fatigue is real. We’re constantly solving problems, analyzing data, managing cases, and leading teams. When every decision at home feels overwhelming, it bleeds into our work.
This color analysis experience cut down on one major category of daily decisions: what to wear. And it gave us something unexpected—a little burst of joy every morning.
We look good. We feel good. We show up differently.
That’s forensic wellness in action.
Should You Try It?
If you’re on the fence, here’s our honest House of Colour review:
- Yes, it might feel indulgent.
- No, it’s not just for fashionistas.
- Yes, it will make your life easier.
- No, you don’t need to overhaul your entire closet overnight.
- Yes, it’s worth every penny.
Color analysis is part self-discovery, part science, and part strategy. And it’s way more accessible than you might think.
Tips for Your Own Color Analysis Experience
If you’re ready to give it a go, here are some quick tips:
- Do your research. Look for a certified House of Colour consultant near you.
- Go in with a clean face. No makeup, no tinted moisturizers.
- Wear a white or neutral top. It helps minimize distractions.
- Take a friend. Seeing someone else’s transformation helps you appreciate your own.
- Don’t overthink it. Trust your consultant. Trust the process.
And most importantly—have fun with it!
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t just a shopping strategy. It was a confidence boost. A form of self-care. A reset button in a high-stress profession.
Whether you’re in the lab, in the field, or leading a forensic team—investing in how you show up can make a huge difference in how you feel. And how you feel affects everything.
The color analysis experience gave us clarity, confidence, and a whole new lens on wellness.
And we’re never looking back.
Want to learn more or book your own appointment? You can find Abbey on Instagram @hoc_okc_girlies—we couldn’t recommend her more.
