Just like a red lip can transform your entire look with a single swipe, red nail polish can evoke confidence and boldness with a simple, no-frills manicure.
While the color has been brought to the forefront thanks to TikTok à la the “Red Nail Theory,” red nails have been used to symbolize power for centuries, with its history being traced back to 3000 B.C. when Chinese royalty and high-ranking women in Ancient Egypt wore the crimson shade on their nails to signify rank. Fast forward to today, and it’s become the go-to color for beauty lovers and experts alike wanting to make a statement.
“Red nails are a power statement,” says celebrity nail artist and KISS brand ambassador Gina Edwards. “The person who wears red is conscious of nail care, most likely aware of nail trends but chooses to stay classic and effortless.”
“It stands out, but is still classic and complements almost every other color,” adds celebrity nail artist Holly Falcone. So how does one settle on a shade when there are endless options? Whether you love a bright cherry red or deep Bordeaux, you can wear whatever variation of this timeless shade you please. But if you’re looking for some guidance on where to start, the easiest way is to pick the one that will best complement your skin tone. Below, Edwards and Falcone walk us through how to do just that. Read on to learn more and pick the best red nail polish for you.
For Fair Skin
Edwards recommends looking for a red shade with slight pink undertones, like a watermelon. Against lighter skin, she says it will read like a true red. Something like the Essie Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish in Electric Geometric gives you a bright pink-red shine with long-lasting power. We also like Sunday’s No. 13, which also mixes in hints of orange and gives you a high shine.
Falcone also likes bright red on fair skin and suggests opting for something with cooler tones like the OPI Nail Lacquer in Big Apple Red. “It flatters everyone,” she says. You can also try something like the Christian Louboutin Rouge Louboutin Nail Colour, which mimics the signature red on its iconic shoe soles—and that’s just simply stunning on.
For Medium to Olive Skin
Edwards says that undertones for medium skin tones may vary, so you have lots of options for that perfect red. First, she recommends looking for something with a blue base. We love the JINSoon in Ardor, which also infuses hints of pink to round out the color. She says you can also go dark red and loves something like Chanel’s Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Rouge Noir for a deep burgundy shade for those moody and romantic vibes.