Are you a sexy red? Or a demure ballet pink? Or maybe a bold and daring black? The fact is that whether they’re glammed up with sparkly polish or left unadorned, nails can tell a lot about a person.
Remember for a moment, what’s your instant assessment when you see someone wearing black nail polish? Now do you see my point? And does it make you wonder precisely what secrets your own nail polish colors are spilling?
Here’s the scoop from the color psychology geniuses over at Pantone, who explain how your choice of nail polish — from red and black nails to royal blue nails and even neutral nail colors — could be making that first impression for you.
And yes, this stands true for toenail colors as well. So, bring on the manicure and the pedicure nail color check!
Red nail color
Red nail polish is the ultimate statement of glamour — a bold, look-at-me color that speaks of passion, fire, and confidence.
It marks you as daring, dramatic, and outgoing… someone who doesn’t shy away from the spotlight.
So, play with red nail polish colors to show off your diva side!
Orange nails
This cheerful tropical color is popular amongst bubbly, creative women who love summer’s warmth. They are generous, make friends easily, and are first in line for fun outings.
Yellow nail color
Yellow is associated with the sun and warmth; plus, it’s impossible to ignore. Women who accessorize with punchy yellow nail polish are spontaneous, extroverted, and bohemian, with a unique style.
Lavender nails
Softer shades of purple, such as lavender and lilac, are graceful and collected — pointing towards a feminine personality without being overtly girly.
Purple nails
Creative people are drawn to this complex combination of blue and red — wearing it on your nails shows that you are confident, artistic, individualistic, and not afraid to stand out from the crowd.
Pale pink nail colors
Soft pink nail colors belong to someone who is quiet (or doesn’t want to stand out) and youthful without being cutesy.
Women who opt for these nail polish colors are impeccably groomed, making this the perfect color for svelte career professionals.
Hot pink nails
Chic, sexy, bold, and playful… hot pink is associated with fun and spontaneity. You have to be confident to wear this feminine color as it’s bold and eye-catching.
Burgundy nail polish
Deep and dark, like the wine for which it’s named, burgundy nail polish is chic, trendy, and indicative of an edgy personality that appreciates a good challenge.
Green nail colors
Going “green” with your nail polish exudes earthiness and spunk. It is an intense color with a lot of power, making it the top choice for women who have a sense of adventure and don’t shy away from risky decisions.
Blue nail polish colors
Forget any tranquil associations — when worn as nail polish, blue is not for the faint of heart. It’s fun and experimental, giving the impression that you live an adrenaline-filled lifestyle full of constant excitement.
In short, blue nail polish tells the world you are youthful, fun, and willing to try new things — from royal blue nails to rich turquoise.
Neon nails
Looking for accent nails? Rocking a neon hue signifies you’re up for a good time. You are hip, vibrant, energetic, and talkative with a “life is too short” attitude.
You are the life of the party and strike up conversations with strangers — probably while dancing the night away in a cool nightclub.
Nude nails (the best in neutral nail colors!)
Suntanned taupe and nudes are for clean-cut, beachy girls (hello, Jennifer Aniston!) who are glamorous yet secure enough not to follow every trend. Pretty and polished, women who favor neutral nail colors are feminine without being high maintenance.
Dark brown nails
Dark brown nail polish is deep and rich, indicating boldness and authority. It is also the signature of an earthy and energetic woman, given its associations with Mother Nature.
And yes, these are definitely not neutral nail colors!
Black nail color
This dark and stormy color reflects a daring, “don’t mess with me” femme fatale who is a trendsetter and doesn’t care what anyone else is doing.
And no, wearing black nail polish (whether matte black nails, glossy blacks, or black tips) doesn’t mean you are depressed or going goth: instead, black nails are a way of rebelling against the norm and showing some of the darkness in your personality.
Gray nail polish colors
Does your color palette contain hues of grays and greiges? In that case, you are the quintessential modernist: cultured, well-read, androgynous, and a fashion maven.
White nails (more neutral nail colors!)
The chic one: you are classic and confident, know what you like, and no one can change your mind. You also want to avoid being bothered by chipped nails. This is my choice amidst all toenail colors all year-’round!
French manicure
A classic French manicure reveals a glamorously conservative side. You don’t need a whole new color: your nails look good as they are, and you emphasize and define yourself.
Gold nails
This neutral-but-not color is for the glamorous woman who is fashion-forward and knows how to mix couture pieces with the high street. A true style maven!
Glitter nails
Blinged-out nail polish is the playing ground of glamour girls like Katy Perry — even if real diamonds are out of the question, nails can still look decadent enough to break the bank. Not a glitter nails person all the way through? This also makes for the perfect accent nail polish when played on just one finger!
Chrome nails
Chrome nails are for an iron maiden who isn’t afraid of anything. She’ll save herself from the tower, thank you very much!
Duo-chrome nails
This futuristic two-tone look indicates a person who’s ahead of her time and loves technological advancements. Their curiosity and love of learning lead them to find the latest invention — whether for smartphones or nail polish.
Nail wraps
Adorning your nails with funkily designed wraps tells others you are trendy, fashionable, and fun. Oh, and you want attention!
Painted designs
Intricate nail art tells the story of a free spirit with a creative imagination. She is also a risk taker, isn’t afraid to experiment, and embraces change.
Clear nails (neutral nail colors revisited!)
They call you “au naturel” because you don’t have time to have it any other way and are too busy to play with color. And you don’t need a whole new color: your nails look good as they are!
FAQs
Here are a few frequently asked questions about what our nail polish colors reveal about our personality. Have any more questions? Drop it in the comments below.
Can nail polish choice indicate my fashion sense or style?
Absolutely. The science of color psychology science shows that certain hues trigger unconscious cues in the brain. Your nail polish choice can reveal your overall fashion style, whether classic, edgy, minimalist, or avant-garde.
Can my nail polish color indicate my mood?
Yes, our moods often dictate our choice of nail polish colors. We tend to choose bright colors when we feel happy or excited. At the same time, we select cooler tones during more relaxed or introspective periods.
Does choosing darker nail polish colors indicate a darker personality?
Not necessarily. Dark nail polish (think a dark brown or black nail color) presents an edgy, sophisticated, or chic image. It doesn’t inherently indicate a dark or negative personality.
What does preferring nude or neutral nail colors say about me?
People often perceive you as more reserved or classic if you lean towards nude or neutral nail colors. You might place a high value on professionalism and simplicity.
What could it mean if I consistently choose bright, bold nail polish colors?
If you gravitate towards bright, bold nail colors, it often suggests that you possess a confident and outgoing personality. You’re likely not afraid to stand out and express yourself.
Are red nails classy?
Yes, red nails have a reputation for being classic and elegant. Red nail polish often symbolizes elegance, sophistication, and confidence, ranging from bright, fiery reds to deeper hues.
What nail polish color do you typically wear? And don’t cheat and say clear! Personally, I am all about burnished gold or soft glitter. You?
Also read: What does your lipstick say about you?
Noor says
In fact I just got done putting a fresh coat of blood red nail polish on my nails.
Mustang Jane says
You go girl! Love my red polish. Because of my coloring, I stick with jewel tones. I look washed out in pastels.
hi says
I need to paint my nails black, or grey.
Tkeyah says
I mostly polish my toes and nails, hot pink, light pink or glitter, the glitter is fun to me.
nails spa ladies says
I am love french manicured polished nails nude nails and very shiny clear polished and manicured nails
Fiona says
I usually wear clear on all nails except one or both my pinkies. on those, i wear burgundy, black, gray, mustard yellow, really anything that attracts my eye at the time.
Elle says
I wear French, Reds and shades of Green
becky says
Wow, this is awesome. Sending it to all my friends. I feel it’s dead on when it comes to predicting personality.
Caitlin says
For me the description doesn’t match me but I love a sparkle red in any shade. Normally what I stick to but sometimes I’ll make them purple or blue depending on what my hair is At the time lol
Haley says
I love red nails.
Disara says
I LOVE glitter nails. But this time I used only plane bright yellow, which I’m satisfied about. It highlights out from my tanned skin. I used to wear black nail polish wherever I went, to whatever I wore, but recently stopped using it cos I noticed a lot of other friends/ non friends of mine started using black. Maybe they copied me. HAHA! So now, I’m more into bright colors. 🙂 Just my opinion, pearly pink color makes you look old. (I’m a teen, and I don’t like to look like I’m in late twenties. LOL)
Wiser says
Like being in one’s 20s is sooooo ooooold. Wait until you turn 40.
Jimmy donald says
How often do you look at your nails? And why? Why is this important to you?
Nat says
Because your mom told you take care of your nails. It shows good hygiene
Josie o says
Unless I am going to an event that looks better with a deep red or matching color, I am all about the baby and metallic blues.
LexiAnn says
I love my long pink and white acrylics. It’s my signature style. I have a standing salon appointment every Friday for my mani/pedi. Of course I get a matching pink and white Tammy Taylor french pedicure. I think the look is very feminine and I get a lot of compliments. I never wear a color.
Natasja says
I love going between deep darker (cooler toned) reds, burgundy’s, dark purple and black and also, you cannot go wrong with a nice french. It’s my birthday tomorrw and I have opted for red this year.
Thanks for the post! Thoroughly enjoyed it!
anubha says
Happy happy happy birthday… hope the red brings you loads of cheer and power through the year. How are you celebrating?
Kaga Nails says
I like very shinny nail polish and the purple shade. I have number of colors of gel nail polish.
Sassi Boem says
Pale pink or white is my fav since it looks natural. On holidays, I opt for black with a gold or silver shimmer. I paint my nails very rarely. Only if I’m going to a wedding or a graduation, usually. 1-2x/year.
Greta James says
Thank you so much for pointing out that glittery nails can help you look fashionable and expensive! For the last few weeks, I have been craving a change in my style. I want to stand out and express my self in a more open way. I really like your point about glitter; I think that I will look into buying silver glitter nail polish strips that can make me feel fancy for a great price.
Jennifer says
Loved reading through these! I currently have a dark purple chrome polish on my nails hehe. I find that expressing yourself through your nails is both a fun and empowering way to make yourself feel classier and put together. Especially with the fact that we look at our hands all the time!
Heather Lynn says
I just had mine done yesterday. Black French Tips. My go to when I’m able to have them done other then that I can’t stand color on my fingers. I always do a shade of teal on my toes.
Vanesa says
I love black nail polish and light purple is okay
Kristopher Wright says
I love Black Nail Polish too.
Therese says
I’m more of a deep color girl and I love trying new things to keep it interesting but when I’m not sure my go to is Silver chrome.
Lee says
I choose to use black because yes i am a huge anime fan, and Naruto Shippuden is one of my all time favorites and some of the Akatsuki where black nail polish, and besides its common in anime for some that are tough to wear black nail polish,or have black nails. Its just the best nail color for those obvious reasons. ;3
Lee says
good choice
Eli Richardson says
It’s awesome that you talked about what the color of your nail polish could reveal about you. My sister’s daughter’s birthday is coming up, and I’m looking for the perfect gift for her. She’s been into makeup and nail polish lately, so I just thought about getting a manicure or something like that for her and my sister. I think your article will be interesting for them both. I’ll be sure to share it. Thanks for helping me learn about how color psychology applies to your nail color as well.
Suannya Gayen says
Currently i am wearing green … But i will like to try tomato red for sure.❤️
Annapurna Dwivedi says
Loved the collection!
Najla says
I mostly wear blues and purples on my toenails, and would love to wear all sorts of colors on my fingernails, but I’m very active and maintenance would be a nightmare. For those, I stick to nudes, lavender and clear.
Shagun says
This piece of content is really insightful.
Rachel says
Seems like i’m an earthy person. I always love green or dark brown
Gianna says
Normally I just do white, lavender, or blue.
sakera begum says
This was such a great post! I’ve been using black polish since reading this article, and it’s amazing! I don’t mind my daughter using it too. Goes on beautifully, lasts for days, and the remover makes my nails and cuticles feel so much healthier. Black nail polish is common in anime for something hard to wear. , or have black nails. This is just the best nail color for these obvious reasons. I’ll be sure to share it. Thanks for helping me learn how color psychology applies to your nail color too!! I appreciate your hard work. I’m pinning it for future reference.
SNS Nails says
What a great breakdown! It’s totally true that our nails say a lot about our personalities and they’re one of the best ways we can express ourselves and change up our look. Loved the perspectives here.
Courtney says
Always Red, Bf wants me to paint them hot pink this time which will be a first for me but I think it will look pretty. ♥️
A small world cup says
If you mix bold and light colors, you can add a bit of fun to your otherwise secure life.
Cossouq says
I really enjoyed your blog post on do your nail polish colors say about you. Thanks for sharing your expertise! I learned a lot from it. I am looking forward to reading more of your work.
Consultoría SEO Madrid says
The result is ideal, thanks for the tips.
Sissy says
I own a fair amount of indie polishes in shimmers, chromes, multichromes, flakies, jellies, thermals, and in so many colors I wear almost everything but pale yellows and pink and many cream polishes. I wonder where this article leaves me? I must be multiple people in one.
Garten Of Banban says
Metallic or shimmering nail polishes, such as gold or silver, can give off a glamorous and luxurious vibe. They can indicate a person who enjoys attention and likes to stand out.
telecommunication equipment in UAE says
It was a very good article. I am grateful to you. Thank you for helping me
bloxd io says
Soft pastel colors like light blue, lavender, or mint green often convey a sweet and playful personality. They can be associated with creativity and a youthful spirit.
among us says
Neutral or nude nail polish suggests a classic and timeless style. It can indicate a practical, sophisticated, and understated personality.
Wordle Unlimited says
Nail polish says a lot about the class of a female in my opinion.