Classic Nail Polish Makes a Comeback

Courtesy of barneys.com
Courtesy of barneys.com

Katherine Bernard,Vogue

Nail polish is now an accessory in its own right, and every season outside of the shows, hundreds of lenses hone in on bedecked fingernails as they carry invitations or tap iPhones. In many shots of stylish handbags, it's hard to know what caught the photographer's eye: Phoebe Philo's sleek leather design, or the hand that clutched it, decorated with miniature sculptures, scales of glitter, or even the Céline logo (rendered in gold polish).

See also: Summer Skin Fixes

Bright nail art was an excellent complement to head-to-toe printed looks this spring, and offered a perfect, feminine balance to the athletic-inspired gear we wore this summer. But come fall, fashion looks best with a nail that's more demure. Returning to classics like red and nude seems natural when you consider the major embellishments on the runways, like oversize coats dotted with baubles (Prada) and dresses defined by their ornate texture (Marc Jacobs). What could be cooler than wearing that kind of statement piece with an easygoing nude nail?

See also: Vogue's Guide to Getting Great-Looking Legs

Take into account the new approaches to power dressing at Balenciaga, Marni, and Proenza Schouler, where strength was central. It's a tougher theme to express in a nail than fruit prints. But consider new twists on nail basics. Simple reds are still eye-catching-just add a layer of matte polish. For the best shades of beige and pink (which align perfectly with Raf Simons's collection for Jil Sander) and basic ruby reds for your fall wardrobe, see the slideshow below.


More from Vogue:
Angelina Jolie Through the Years in Vogue
Could Your Thyroid Be Making You Depressed?
Vogue Guide: 40 Hot Summer Sandals
Melt-Proof Summer Beauty