Autumnal Nail Painting
When I was a master’s student, one of my favorite ways to relax was by painting my nails. It forced me to take a break: I’d have to stop typing, reading, or writing, and instead my focus was on every small stroke of the brush and every layer of color. After I’d carefully finished painting, I had to sit still until they were dry. In addition to requiring me to slow down, perfectly painted nails gave the outward impression that I had my life together (I did not) and, especially in the autumn, that my aesthetic was on point (it was).
When it comes to autumnal nail polish shades, I personally have no time for baby pinks or light nudes. This is the season of dark, witchy nails. Crimson reds, plum purples, navy blues, and emerald greens are, in my opinion, the only colors for this time of year. Whether you need a break from university work or you just need a few minutes for yourself, giving yourself a manicure is a fabulous way to slow down, take a deep breath (or several), and add a little something extra to your autumn look.
I tend to stick to two main brands for my nail polishes: Essie and OPI. They’re slightly more expensive than your average drugstore brand, but if you’re doing your nails yourself, it’s worth the extra money to buy a polish that won’t chip as easily and has a strong, deep color. I’ve organized my favorites here by color – happy painting!
RED
Bordeaux by Essie | This is my favorite deep red for autumn (and for the rest of the year, really!).
Yes My Condor Can-Do by OPI | The depth of this shade is superb, and I really love the brown undertones that come through.
We the Female by OPI | I adore this dark candy red, and the name isn’t too bad either!
Bogota Blackberry by OPI | This red has a gorgeous shine and would be absolutely perfect for a Christmas Eve dinner party.
PURPLE
Beau-Tie by Essie | One word to describe this rich purple shade: witchy.
Hazy Daze by Essie | I love this polish because it doesn’t turn too dark with a few layers, as is often the problem with purples.
Berry Fairy Fun by OPI | Inspired by the new film The Nutcracker and the Four Realms, this is a pinkish-purple that would perfectly compliment a sparkly New Year’s Eve dress!
Russian Navy by OPI | This is my all-time favorite purple shade. It has an indigo shimmer and appears black at first sight, but when it catches the light, it is stunning.
BLUE
Caviar Bar by Essie | If you’re looking for the color of the night sky, you’ve found it here.
Butler Please by Essie | Bright enough to make a statement but still dark enough to be seasonal.
GREEN
Wrap Party by Essie | Dark green is by far the most difficult color to find as most tend to look black, but this shade has never done me wrong.
Olive for Green by OPI | This is an olive shade that might not fit the deep wintertime, but certainly has its place in October.
Editorial Note: Lauren’s much-requested sweater can be found at Topshop, here.
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