Calling all Fashionistas... everyone who knows a thing or two about color pallets and anyone else who might have some good tips for a girl in need!

I have no clothing from my old-wardrobe and I'm starting from the ground up. Therefore, I have only purchased items that are functional (I will actually wear), fit me properly with a cut that is flattering on me, and has colors that compliment my features.

So, 1^st I need to know: What is an essential piece of your wardrobe? Is it the black dress or a great pair of slacks?

Second, how do you determine your color palate? I have a little bit of a conundrum. I seem to fit into two different types of palates....

I have red hair, brown eyes, and olive skin. Therefore, I can tan, yet my hair is always vibrant. Typically red-heads look good in the warm colors: browns and earthy colors (and these do compliment my features well). However, I am not the typical red-head with blue or hazel eyes.  I have brown eyes and this tends to lend itself to an entirely different color palette. I have the ability to wear bright blues, purples, and even some peach.  

For example, I was looking for a shirt that would be blue... very blue... beckyanna blue  : ). A couple days ago, I found that perfect shirt... with the perfect cut... fabric... and color!

I thought this was not a part of the warm "autumn" color palatte. So, now I'm sort of confused. I also look really good in Kelly green:

So, I guess I'm asking you to tell me how to figure out what colors might look good on me... I don't think I'm a yellow-girl, nor does red really look good on me (although I love that color for everything else).  I don't really know about orange... but that's a warm color right, so shouldn't I look good in it?

Also, as far as my makeup... I use all brown tones in my makeup with a little lavender eye shadow once in awhile, no pinks or reds.  Should I simply stick to this sort of color palette when looking at clothing too? No pinks... reds...etc.?

So, as I'm moving into the fall and realize that I have 2, count-em 2 shirts with long-sleeves, I might need to start searching for some clothing. I have been looking at thrift stores and simply watching the clearance racks of my favorite stores. However, I'm not willing to simply buy something because it's cheap or because I might need a sweater. I want it to look good on me, both in color and cut. Do you know what I mean? I'm not going to just go on a shopping binge, but I want to shop smarter. This is where all of you come in. I need your help! I cannot afford one of those personal stylists that can tell me what to buy, but I do need to have some sort of direction in mind. So, tell me what item is a must-have and possibly what should be bought at a nicer store because it is essential to have quality. Also, how do you determine your color palette? Is it weird that I have such a weird combination of colors that look good on me? How do I discover new ones?