Nail Polish Ideas for Valentine's

Get festive and try a new nail look for Valentine's Day.

They say you can tell a lot about a woman by her hands. On Valentine’s Day, don’t give the wrong message with a set of tough talons. Whether you have a hot date or are spending the night with the girls, you’ll want to look your best for this special evening. Lacquered nails will put the finishing touch on your V-Day style – treat your paws to a little TLC and polish up.

Paint the Town Red

Fire engine red polish with a hint of orange is always hot.

Racy red is Valentine’s Day color du jour and is a classic, bold choice for nails. It’s a sophisticated shade that will add a pop of color next to that sexy LBD you can’t wait to slither in to. Afraid you don’t have what it takes to pull off red hot? Not to worry, there’s a hue fit for every skin tone. Darker skins tend to have cool undertones and should go for a more berry or brick red. Medium-toned gals can reach for coral reds, and fairer complexions’ best bets are true cherry reds. You can’t go wrong with tradition.

Tickled Pink

A pop of pink is just the right touch for a flirty night out.

If you’d like a little color on your tips but want a subtler shade, pick pink. Petal, rosy, baby or blush, this passionate palette is still in keeping with the lover’s holiday and with so many variations, you can choose a shade of pink to tailor-fit your outfit and ambiance. Pink conveys romance and innocence, so think pink for Valentine’s Day if you’re trying to set the mood for love.

A French Affair

A French manicure looks put together and sophisticated for those who don't like crazy designs.

If you consider yourself more platinum than plain, a fancy French manicure is fitting for your fingernails. With its classic white and nude pairing, a French manicure adds elegance without overwhelming bold makeup or bright, colorful outfits. This look is slightly more complicated to achieve on your own, so you should book yourself a spa appointment and let the professionals handle it. Just be sure to give yourself some time to grow: This style looks best on slightly longer nails that extend past the fingertips.

Classically Clean

Go for a nude or peach polish if clear polish isn't your thing.

The au naturale gal still has options when it comes to Valentine’s Day nails. If colored varnish isn’t your thing, dare to go bare. Whether you prefer clear polish or no polish at all, nails should be buffed, filed and cuticle-free. Nothing says unpolished like a hangnail. For classic styling, trim your nails to 1/8 inch beyond your fingertip. Anything longer and you’ll be channeling Lady Gaga, not Lady Di.

References

• Nails Magazine: Keep Red Manis Looking Young