Choosing the right nail polish

By Yunia Kuria

When it comes to nail colour, there are many options. The range of colour of nail polishes today is mind boggling and even confusing. How do you choose nail polish colours that are right for you?

Event or occasion: Your choice of nail colour for a day in college should be different from the shade you choose for a date with a new beau or for a job interview. In a professional environment, stick to muted or neutral shades to give an air of professionalism. If the setting is extremely conservative, opt for a clear polish and hold off on colour altogether.

If you are heading to an evening party, this is the best time to experiment with the colours you’ve never dared. Bring out the golds, silvers, and bronzes appropriate for daytime wear. Keep your jewellery selection in mind when choosing a nail polish colour. If you are wearing gold jewellery, select a gold polish rather than silver.

Skin colour: If you are light skinned, you will probably look best in lighter shades with pink undertones. Nail polish with blue undertones may also work well with your skin. Light skinned women also tend to look their best in berry red shades of nail polish with a lighter colour for day and more dramatic shade for the evening.

If your skin is a bit darker, you will look fantastic in shades of russet and gold. If you have dark skin, you can get by with almost any rich, deep or vibrant shades of nail polish including vibrant reds and purples. You can generally get by with a bolder display of colour than can the light skinned person.

Lipstick colour: One way to determine what shades of nail polish will work with your skin tone is to choose nail colour based on the colours that flatter your lips. If you look great in chocolate shades of lipstick, chances are this colour will look good on your nails.

Wardrobe: If you wear a lot of rich brown shades, consider adding these shades of nail polish to your collection. Take an inventory of what is in your closet and keep your dominant clothing shades in mind when you choose nail colour.

Season and trends: During the warmer months, choose light coloured nail polish. Those pale pinks and pale lavenders may be appropriate. Consider the prevailing colour trends in the nail colour. If you are relatively new to the world of nail polishes, schedule a manicure and get some professional colour advice. Other options when choosing nail colour are to buy inexpensive nail polish colours and experiment until you determine what works for you.