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There’s a reason red nails have been a go-to as far back as ancient Egypt; the color red makes a statement of strength, of boldness and confidence. As a manicure, it’s also a year-round neutral that exudes glamour and sophistication. Viral “red nail theory” aside, does a classic red manicure ever go out style?
Simply put, no. I can’t think of a generation before us that hasn’t looked good while wearing timeless and versatile shades of red. Don’t get me wrong, I love a fun nail trend—everything from jelly nails, “Brat” nails, “farmer’s market” nails, Aperol spritz nails, ombré chrome nails—but I always come back to classic red hues.
“Red nails are one of the longest trending nail styles out there that has never gone out of fashion,” agrees says Alexandra Teleki (also known as The Hot Blend on Instagram and TikTok). “Red is one of the foundations to our skin color and it’s the reason that it suits everyone.” Teleki has a few tips on how to figure out the most flattering red shade for you. “People with warm skin undertones complement reds that has orange or coral undertones. While cool skin tones usually complements reds that have blue or pink undertones. Neutural skin tones get the best of both worlds!”
12 classic red nail polishes guaranteed to flatter and empower
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When we say “classic,” OPI’s Big Apple Red is the first that comes to mind. Its luscious, fire-engine red color is as bold as its get and the creamy finish is classy and refined. “My favorite red at the moment is OPI Big Apple Red,” says UK-based manicurist Chels Lou. “I just think it’s the perfect vibrant red which suits and compliments many skin tones.”
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Who says chic has to mean expensive? Described as a “fierce scarlet red,” Essie’s Rock the Runway is an affordable and salon-quality at-home gel polish that has reportedly graced the fingertips of Selena Gomez.
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With an intensely red pigment and an opaque, glossy finish, Dior’s beloved 999 Rouge compliments every wearer.
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Chanel offers a plethora of gorgeous nail colors (Ballerina is an all-time favorite) whose formulas include camellia ceramides for unmatched staying power. “Pirate” is a dark-red beauty that gets spicier with each coat.
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A go-to red nail polish for Teleki is Essie’s Not Red-y For Bed. The rich cherry shade that not only looks delicious, but, as its name suggests, will give your entire look a second wind.
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Staying in the cherry family, Nailberry’s version leans a bit more orange than traditional cherry hues. The brand describes the shade as a “bright,” “upbeat” and “eye-catching.”
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If you’re into the glamour of Old Hollywood (who isn’t?), you need this nail color. A pink-infused red, Ardor reminds me of the renowned red carpet.
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There’s no denying that a good red nail polish is as invaluable as a little black dress. That’s the inspiration behind Londontown’s Londoner Love, a vibrant red crème. Londontown’s Lakur Enhanced Colors use a custom blend of natural botanical extracts and restorative plant oils for extended longevity.
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With a bottle that’s pretty enough to display on its own, Gucci has perfected the classic red, in my humble opinion. What’s more, its nail-protecting formula includes antioxidants and red algae that fills in ridges and smooths out imperfections in one coat.
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A beauty-editor favorite, Zoya’s Ming is a cool-toned sexy scarlet red with a 10-Free breathable formula.
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If you’re looking for a true red, give this one a go. Deborah Lippman’s gel formulas are full-coverage, nail health–centered and delivers the gloss and cushion of a gel manicure without the nail damage.
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“It really is that perfect,” Emilie Heathe’s founder Emily H. Rudman previously told NewBeauty of this “all-seasons” shade. “It’s neutral, bright and super shiny.”
