How to Choose the Right Nail Polish Color
Express yourself with nail polish. Select colors that suit the occasion; for example, wear hot pink or neon orange to a party celebrating the 1980s; a soft, iridescent coral or white to a dance or reception; or a vibrant, sexy red for a big date. Regardless of the event, follow basic guidelines to choose the right nail polish color. Factor in your skin tone, makeup and clothing to find a color that complements your look. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Buy colors that match the occasion. Select light colors in neutral shades for professional events, such as job interviews or business meetings. Go with a brighter color or a nail polish with sparkle for a night out on the town.
-
2
Buy nail polish in shades that match your favorite lipsticks. Colors that look good on your face usually work well on your hands and feet.
-
-
3
Avoid polish with bright red, orange or yellow undertones if you're fair-skinned; however, you can get away with most other colors. Use deep, rich colors, such as chocolate or garnet, if your skin is dark -- stay away from brighter nail polish. Avoid dark blues and purples if your complexion falls somewhere between fair and dark; shades with metallic undertones are your best bet. Make gold polish your signature color if you're olive-skinned; skip this shade if your skin is sallow -- offset your skin's yellow tinge with a bright lavender or pink polish.
-
4
Choose nail polish shades that reflect the season. Celebrate spring with pastel or candy-colored polish. Wear brighter, bolder shades in the summer. Buy muted reds, browns and golds for autumn. Pick cooler shades, such as ice blue, during the winter months.
-
5
Pick nail polish colors that match or complement your favorite outfits.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Break the rules. Indulge in a wild nail polish color every so often. Paint just your toenails if you want to draw less attention but still wear the polish; this way, you can cover your nail polish with shoes.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
