With all the exciting new looks this season, it’s hard to tell which trends will work in an office setting, and manicures are no exception. You don’t want to end up spending Sunday night trying to scrub off a manicure that just isn’t appropriate for the workplace. From metallics to half moons, this guide will help you decide what to paint on for work, and what shades to save for the weekend.
Choosing an office manicure is similar to selecting an outfit to wear to work. Keep a few questions in mind: Is this appropriate to wear to work, does it say the right thing about me, and can I handle the upkeep? Luckily, there are many ways to pull of this season’s nail trends and still keep your look office appropriate. Many of the trendiest looks can be toned down a bit for everyday wear and are even doable at home. In this guide, find out what trends are hot this fall and how to incorporate them into your daily work attire.
Classic Red: Bold and confident, but high-maintenance
Red, if worn correctly, can be an easy color to pull off. Start with a fall-inspired shade like burgundy or deep burnt red, which is much more sophisticated than the traditional fire engine red. Add a glossy top coat to transform it into a classy, clean look that’s right on trend with the season.
But remember that red requires regular upkeep – this shade can look sloppy and even cheap if it’s not well-maintained, so keep your manicure fresh.
Classic French: An old favorite that never goes out of style
This is a natural, simple manicure that can take you from day to night with ease. Even women who don’t like the fuss of long nails can embrace a French manicure, which naturally gives nails an elongated appearance.
This fall, keep it trendy by opting for squared-off nail tips. You can visit a salon, or if you prefer, try an at-home manicure set like Seche French Manicure Travel Kit, which contains nail guides to help you avoid mistakes. For the most authentic look, choose a base that works with your natural undertones. If you’re not sure what types of undertones you have, read about cool complexions here and warm complexions here.
Keep your French manicure looking clean and classy by making sure the tips don’t become dirty or discolored, which can happen if you spend time in direct sunlight or use tanning beds. Invest in a protective topcoat like Sally Hansen Diamond Shine Base & Topcoat.
Half-Moon: Daring, fun and surprisingly wearable.
This trend has been spotted all over the runways. The half-moon is a spin-off from the French manicure – but instead of nudes and pinks, half-moon manicures showcase contrasting colors, such as white on black. At first glance it might look too bold for the office, but try it with more subtle colors to tone it down for the office: deep gray with burgundy, pale gold with soft pink or nude with muted red.
Metallic: Metal for your nails that won’t weigh you down
The metallic look is huge this fall, and it’s been spotted on the runway in every color of the rainbow. If you’re worried that wearing metallic shades will make you look too edgy for the workplace, rest assured that not all metals are created equal.
The top colors this season are burgundy, gray, gold and blue, which can be worn in softer shades for the workplace. Bolder, darker colors tend to work better on shorter nails, while lighter metallic shades work best on longer nails. This look is meant to be shiny, so make sure to add a strong topcoat after color is applied.
Nudes: The new and improved naked nail
Nude colors have come flying down the runways and have been met with a sigh of relief for those who like to keep things simple and muted. Almost-nude nails are professional, office-appropriate and easy to maintain. With these lighter colors, however, your hands themselves will draw more attention because the nails will now blend in, so make sure to show your hands some love and attention as well.
Do-it-yourself tips:
- Start fresh. Make sure all your old nail polish is removed before you begin, even if you’re in a rush. You wouldn’t (or shouldn’t) apply new makeup over old and expect great results, so the same goes for nails. Start with a clean slate; it’ll be worth it.
- File/buff first. Get your nails into the shape you want before applying color; filing afterward can chip the polish. Buff nails to remove any traces of stubborn polish left behind. Your nails should be completely naked at the beginning of the process.
- Start with clean nails. After you’ve filed your nails and before dipping into the polish, make sure your nails are clean. Soak them in a solution like TALIKA Instant Manicure to soften skin and cuticles. This will ease the process and let your skin absorb lotions and cuticle creams more effectively.
- Soften cuticles. Use a cuticle cream and an orange wood stick to moisturize and push back cuticles. A good one to use is the Barielle Extra Gentle Cuticle Minimizer kit.
- Prep & finish your nails. Start every manicure by using a basecoat, and finish with a topcoat. You can find 2-in-1 products like SpaRitual Multi-Tasker Base and Topcoat In One to make the task simple. Many colors aren’t equipped to act as both a base and a finish, so this will help to create a more uniform layer of color and seal in the pigment for a longer-lasting manicure.
- Allow polish to dry in between layers. Don’t be your own worst enemy and sabotage your work due to impatience. Allow each coat to dry for five minutes before applying an additional layer. Color will look best if you apply 2-3 thin layers rather than one thick layer. Also, let each layer dry completely to prevent smudges and mishaps.
Regardless of trend, color or style, the most important thing to remember with office-appropriate manicures is that your hands and nails should look healthy and moisturized. Even the naked nail can be a foolproof, simple option and with a little shine, can be a home-run manicure.
Learn everything you need to know about workplace beauty and skincare for a professional lifestyle in our Office Beauty Handbook.