glam it up - change it up

The easiest way to make a wardrobe feel a little broader is by wearing different colors of polish. Especially as the winter weather is wearing on, and it’s not quite time to bring out some lighter clothes yet, wearing different color polishes can help you feel like you’ve gotten something new. Depending on the color of choice, you can really enhance some of the same old outfits by trying either a nice new nude color or go for a deep pretty shade of wine. The thing is, people at work notice how nice you look and when you get tired of wearing the “same old thing” (we’ve all been there), a very affordable change (and nice distraction to anyone who might feel like they’ve seen the same gray turtleneck a million times) is a nice new nail color. A new nail polish is extremely affordable compared to a new skirt or jacket. Besides, we’re in that time of year when we want to shop but for warm weather clothes (which, in most areas, we can’t wear yet anyway). Change it up - what’s there to be afraid of?

Ready to make a power play in your meeting today? Nothing screams confidence and power like a strong, bright red. A vibrant red looks great against any shade of gray, black or camel. But, keep it short and neat. The moment this color starts to chip - either repair or lose it. A chipped, red nail looks messy and cheap (neither are great qualities you want your office mates to think of you). A very strong, bright red to try is: Essie Russian Roulette.

Wine colors can be a nice, more preppy alternative to the popular blacks. The wine nails are considered a very classic look for the office (unlike the brighter shades or blacks). A good wine color to try: Essie Bold And Beautiful.

Nude colors and an air of feeling like your wearing a color, but you never have to worry about what it matches. Good nude shades to try: Essie Mambo or Essie Eternal Optimist.

Bright colors (like corals or hot pink) can look so much fun when paired with coordinating clothing, accessories (scarves!) or lips. Bright colors are really cute and can add a pop of color to a very dreary wintery day when you’re really ready for spring flowers. At work they look more on trend when they are super short. Good corals to try: Essie California Coral; good deep purple shade - Essie Bahama Mama; good blue - Essie Mesmerize.

Then there’s the natural - light pink. Just enough effort to feel more pulled together, but so easy to put on (with or without a salon visit) and this is the manicure that lasts the longest. After you’ve worn the color past the first couple of days, you might see a less than perfect nail, but nobody else will notice - because this color just looks so natural. Vary the amount of coats you apply to determine how natural or light pink this appears. Good natural shade to try: Essie Mademoiselle.

Black polish - everyone’s favorite is OPI Lincoln Park After Dark. Goes with everything.

If you must go without a polish (sometimes nails just need some air!) make sure to use a cuticle oil to help rough, dry edges disappear!

Ultimately, this just comes back to the impression that you want to make at the office. You want to ensure that the people who work with you everyday see you with your best “game face” on. People notice things like good nails as if they are noticing a new hairstyle or cute new jacket. They don’t always know exactly why they think like you’ve got everything under control, but something as simple as a coat of polish (and a top coat!) can give that impression. A nice new nail color can make people completely forget the tired, winter clothes - and suddenly when you’ll smile as you try to determine what to wear to work (that will look good with your super cute nails). Cute nails add confidence and that’s a beautiful work accessory worth the investment.