We were lucky to catch up with Yvonne Cano recently and have shared our conversation below.

YVONNE, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today To kick things off, we’d love to hear about things you or your brand do that diverge from the industry standard

In a world that often celebrates diversity, I found myself facing a striking absence of it in an industry I had grown to love—color analysis. As a woman of color, I was drawn to the transformative power of understanding how colors can enhance our natural beauty. However, as I delved deeper into the field, it became painfully clear that color analysis was predominantly portrayed through a narrow lens, one that primarily catered to white women. This realization ignited a fire within me, a desire to carve out a space for women of color in an industry that had largely overlooked us.

Growing up, I had always been captivated by colors. I would spend hours experimenting with different shades of makeup and clothing, fascinated by how each hue could change my appearance and elevate my confidence. However, when I sought guidance through traditional resources, I was met with a glaring lack of representation. Every book, every tutorial, and every influencer seemed to reflect a singular narrative—one that didn’t resonate with my experience or the experiences of countless women like me.

My epiphany came during a particularly frustrating evening. I was scrolling through social media, bombarded by images of color analysis consultations that showcased an array of pale skin tones adorned in vibrant palettes. While I appreciated the artistry, I felt invisible. The colors that were celebrated did not align with my complexion, my undertones, or my cultural heritage. It was then that I realized: if I wanted to see change, I had to be the catalyst.

I embarked on a journey of research and exploration, determined to create a color analysis system that embraced the rich diversity of women’s skin tones. I studied color theory, learned about undertones, and experimented with various palettes that would enhance the beauty of all shades—especially those that had been marginalized. I connected with other women of color, gathering insights about their experiences and preferences. Their stories illuminated the gaps in the existing systems and fueled my passion to create something new.

After months of dedication, I developed my own color analysis methodology—one that celebrates the beauty in every hue and undertone, from deep mahogany to warm olive, from rich caramel to cool beige. My system is designed not only to identify flattering colors but also to empower women of color to embrace their unique beauty. I wanted them to feel seen, heard, and represented in a space that had long excluded them.

The response was overwhelming. Women from all walks of life began to embrace this inclusive approach to color analysis. They shared their own stories of feeling overlooked and marginalized in traditional consultations, and my heart swelled with joy as I witnessed their transformation. As they discovered the colors that complemented their individual beauty, I saw them radiate confidence and self-love.

Through workshops, online courses, and social media platforms, I made my color analysis system accessible to anyone seeking to understand the colors that enhance their beauty. What began as a personal quest had blossomed into a movement—one that encouraged women of color to reclaim their narratives and celebrate their unique identities.

Today, I stand proud as a pioneer in the field of color analysis for women of color. I am committed to continuing this journey, advocating for inclusivity, and inspiring future generations of color analysts to break down barriers in an industry that has much work to do.

In sharing my story, I hope to ignite a spark in others who, like me, have felt unseen or unheard. Our beauty is not defined by a singular standard; it is a kaleidoscope of shades, each deserving of celebration. Together, we can paint a more inclusive future—one where every woman feels empowered to express herself through the colors that speak to her soul.

YVONNE, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Yvonne Cano holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and is certified as both an Image Consultant and Makeup Artist. Her professional experience includes managing a renowned European fashion brand, where she acquired invaluable training in styling, merchandising, and client relations. Yvonne has nurtured a profound passion for image since childhood, culminating in her college thesis, which focused on branding and strategy within a political campaign. She remains committed to her ongoing education in branding, color analysis, and business management.
In August 2023, Yvonne founded Yvonne Cano Image, offering services that include styling, wardrobe editing, and color analysis. Her current areas of expertise are Color Analysis and Personal Branding, with a primary mission to empower women through her work.

After spending many years as a stay-at-home mom, Yvonne faced challenges in re-entering the workforce and discovering her true calling. Ultimately, she chose to carve out her own path by establishing her role as an Image Consultant and Color Analysis expert. Her mission centers on empowering women by boosting their confidence and providing valuable resources through courses and personalized consultations to enhance their image and personal brand. Yvonne envisions helping clients express their individuality and create a positive impression in both their personal and professional lives, enabling them to reach their goals and become the best versions of themselves.

Yvonne Cano Image, with a proven Color Analysis system developed by her, focuses on offering comprehensive services, products and courses to enhance Personal Style and Branding. She has helped women streamline the process of selecting clothes, identifying their style and empowering them to confidently use these tools in real-world situations without constant assistance, saving time, money and effort.
Her best skill is to provide diverse women going through a transformation journey with strategies to improve their image and self esteem, building and restoring confidence with a unique approach and tailored services to help them become the best version of themselves.
She also encourages and teaches others to use Color Analysis as a tool to grow their business or start a business of their own.

Yvonne Cano Image has empowered over 100 diverse women, to achieve their personal goals and boost their confidence. By employing Color Analysis, Styling, and Personal Branding techniques, she saves her clients both time and money when it comes to choosing wardrobes, makeup, and accessories. Yvonne offers personalized advice on the styles, colors, and silhouettes that best match each person’s body type, personality, and lifestyle. She can help create a versatile wardrobe that minimizes shopping and impulsive buys, guiding clients to discover essential mix-and-match pieces that enhance their current wardrobe, leading to informed and intentional purchases without stress or reliance on constant assistance.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Building my reputation has been a key factor for my business. I would say one of the most important things has been networking with other entrepreneurs and business owners, doing collaborations with boutiques, salons and influencers. Being an active person in my community getting involved in charity events, women’s groups and getting speaking opportunities. My clients reviews and recommendations also have been a big part on building my branding and reputation, since they are the most important asset for my marketing strategies.

We’d love to hear your thoughts about selling platforms like Amazon/Etsy vs selling on your own site.

Since I developed my own Color Analysis System, I had to of course create my own Color Analysis Drapes. I started using my own website to sell them, and after that I also created an Etsy store and an Amazon sellers account. I currently offer my color analysis drapes and some digital products on these 3 platforms. It might be too early to decide which one has been working the best for me since I just added my products there recently, but I would say even if you are not selling that much at the beginning it is a good opportunity to put yourself out there for many other eyes and market that you might not get only selling in your website, which at the end benefits your business. I think it is important to test your product in different platforms and after that decide what works bes for you.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.yvonnecano.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yvonnecanoimage/profilecard/?igsh=c3JleTVmZHhzZmRy
• Facebook: @yvonnecanoimage
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-cano-96763929?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@yvonnecanoacademy?si=RAlWDs9ImmeY0QmH

Image Credits

Modern Grace Studios