Nail Appropriate

It’s super easy to change from professional day to a night out. We have read a million articles about ditching the blazer, stuffing a cute little metallic clutch with the essentials, and switching out day jewels for major sparkles. But what about your nails? It isn’t easy going from super professional to fun – coworkers generally frown on the smell and well, the inappropriateness of changing polish at the office. I for one LOVE snazzy nails. It contributes to my fun nature, but proper nail etiquette is essential. Some new trends are disappointing and honestly, detract from the professional intelligent women we are. I refuse to be boring, but insist class.

1. Chipping polish is NOT a trend. I was reading OK (not my best moment I know, but it was in the salon and Vogue was no where to be found) and Brittany Spears consistently had chipping nail polish in the photos and the mag said it was a new trend. This trend should go in the direction of the shoulder pad, obsolete.

2. Super long fake (or even not fake) nails are scary. The rule is – keep them short enough so that your fingers are typing and not your nails. Do you want to scare people away with your claws? No way.

3. Decals or painted animals on your nails do not express your personality, they express your manicurist’s. There is no need for full landscapes on your nails. Some designs, however, aren’t, for lack of a better word, tacky and we’ll get to those shortly.

Don’t get me wrong. I am all for being fun and funky, but it needs a little sophistication. Nails are an accessory and should follow the same rules other work accessories follow – a lot in moderation or a little with a lot of personality. Think about length, color, and design. If one is a little too much, the others should be a little less. Here are some good examples of what I mean.

We saw trends in neon and gem shades, but we are moving more the matte neutrals. It isn’t for everyone, but could be used as the tip of a manicure or gorgeous shade for a bright outfit.

A standard manicure with a touch of spring. If nail art is your thing, keep it simple. One nail on each hand does the trick.

Switch up that manicure. Almost any color works as a tip and neutrals are great as the base with a standard white tip.

Now, here are some bad examples of professional nails.

In short, keep them simple, manicured, and classy.

Brands to love.

RGB. Classic colors that steer clear from boring.

Chanel. Of course, fashionable clothes, fashionable (and durable) polish.

MAC. Best for neutral or dark shades with a kick.

Seche Vite. Best Dry Fast Top Coat EVER.

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