In this article I’m going to share with you the tips and tricks I follow to get nails that are always classy. It’s not just about keeping them neat and taken care of. There’s an art and a science to it: it’s the color, the shape and length. We will be discussing color analysis and the aesthetics of geometry.
When you use all these things in your favor, to flatter your features and your skintone and undertones, you will elevate your look to a completely different level – because you are working with your natural beauty! If you want to find out my easy guide for classy nails, keep reading.
The classiest nail colors
Ladies, shades of red and nude are timeless, classic, sultry and most importantly, they look good on anyone. You can never go wrong by opting for these colors. Just make sure it’s the right shade of red or pink/beige for your skintone (see point 2) and you will always look elegant without even trying. Getting your signature look figured out will help you in so many ways – you won’t have to waste time picking out the next look for your nails and wondering which will look elegant, instead you will be able to focus on leveling up your whole life like a true queen!
Red – It’s the eternal color of voluptuousness, of vitality, of blood. This color is associated with excitement, alarm and danger all in one so it only makes sense that our eyes (and especially that of men) are naturally drawn to this color, whether it’s a fire engine red, or a cherry bomb shade that is so dark it’s almost black. I especially recommend this to ladies that love wearing red lipstick or incorporating more red into their wardrobe, that is how you exude femme fatale energy. Personally, you’ll find my nails painted a glossy shade of red 99% of the time.
Naturals – If you go for milky pinks or beige, or whatever shade is close to your skintone, you will look classy and on point no matter what the rest of your outfit looks like. You will no longer have to color coordinate your nails with your outfit. I highly recommend going for these neutral/natural tones for any ladies that prefer an efficient, minimalist look, and enjoy being high maintenance on a consistent basis, and know that decision fatigue can appear as a result of overthinking the details of your appearance. Most often, less is more – and you can focus on your goals or business, and know that you look polished without having to decide on a new color every 2-3 weeks. Also, milky pink nails are perfect for a dainty, feminine, angelic allure.
Color undertones (warm/cool) and color depth
if you have a warm undertone to your skin, go for warmer (orange-based) reds. If you have cool undertone to your skin, opt for colder, blue-based reds. For instance, redheads and blondes usually have cooler undertones and look amazing in cool red shades, and ladies with darker skin have warmer undertones and so look best in warmer colors.
Additionally, the darker your skin is, you will look best in equally deep, rich colors (think dark cherry, burgundies, oxblood reds, etc) so it does not overpower, distract from, or wash out your beautiful skincolor.
If you’re unsure what would suit you, do some online research on the topic or reach out for an Image Consultant who will be more than happy to help you.
Why is this important? It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference. When you wear cool colors on your warm skintone, or the other way around, something will look off. Instead of flattering your skin, it may either make you look sickly, yellow, or unnaturally flushed.
Choosing the nail shape suited for your fingers
Classy in this case translates as “what compliments your body best”. It means working with what you have, instead of choosing what is trendy on the market at the moment (and which may or may not flatter you).
Straight: If you have long, symmetric fingers, any style or nail length will flatter you.
Tapered: If you have shorter fingers, possibly asymmetrically shaped across the length, then an almond/round style and longer length compliments you best, as it makes your fingers look longer and more symmetric. See? It’s all about geometry and aesthetics.
Knotted fingers: If the knuckles are wider than the width of the rest of your finger, then rounded style and short length looks most flattering.
The shape style
Stiletto or Mountain – Stiletto nails look best when on the longer end (because if you apply this style on short nails, the geometry will create the illusion of thick, tapered fingers). These pointed nails are a delicious feast for the eyes, especially gentlemen. But don’t exaggerate with the sharpness, it should still be subtle and smoothly filed. You don’t want it so sharp that you scratch yourself if you’re not extremely careful. Once again, sustainability and practicality is important. Did you know the reason why stiletto nails have such a sexy allure? These pointed nails are reminiscent of claws and daggers, our minds naturally associate them with danger and thrill. In other words, the same principle applies as with the color red – people react with intrigue and excitement!
Almond or Rounded – Almond nails look effortlessly gentle and feminine, and look good both shorter and longer. These nails are always classy and timeless.
Square or coffin – Aesthetically, square nails look best when short in length. If you like this style in longer length, opt for coffin shape (the ends are slightly tapered than the width of the nailbed, offering a more natural look), but don’t overdo it. Square or coffin styles can easily look artificial, and that is the opposite of classy.
The length
Very long – Personally, I don’t find overly long nails classy because they are not practical, sustainable, or hygienic. You have to be careful with them, and it can also damage your natural nail if you have a bumping accident (ouch, we’ve all been there ladies). As we know, if something is detrimental to your health, it’s not classy. Lastly, most men don’t care for overly long nails… on the contrary, I’ve noticed most men share the opinion that they are off-putting (if you care for their opinion).
Medium – Medium length nails I find are the most elegant and feminine. They’re long enough to be feminine but short enough to be sustainable, and by sustainable I mean you can keep your nails that length for long periods of time without it interfering with your daily lifestyle or affecting the health of your nails.
Short – You can never go wrong with having short nails if they are manicured and kept neat. Everybody likes the look of simple, clean nails that are visibly taken care of (polish or no polish)!
Conclusion
if you want classy nails, just follow these quick tips:
- First and foremost, classy means practical, timeless and sustainable. It means you’re working with your body and your natural beauty, and not against it. Choose colors, shapes and styles that flatter you best.
- Natural colors are classiest. This means shades of red (oxblood, deep ruby, true red), nudes, soft pinks or peach shades or french variations.
- Always keep them neat and manicured, even if you have no polish. This means keeping your cuticles and skin moistured; no hangnails, dryness or callouses.
- If you wear polish, opt for long-lasting techniques so it is never chipped. I recommend gel or semipermanent, or even acrylics; but avoid press-ons as they damage your natural nails and so are not sustainable).
One Response
I love how well you pointed out the importance of having sustainable and practical manicure. I’m loving this article and I agree that red nails will never go out of fashion. ❤️