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Community Corner

Don't Forget Those Nails And Toes

Tips on how to choose the right nail color for you.

Summer is here so make sure to have those hands and toes ready. Whether you go to one of the many nail salons in Sudbury for a quick mani or pedi or decide to run into one of the pharmacies for a new polish color, remember that nail polish is like any other accessory.

Many women have at least five to 10 polishes in their nail polish “wardrobes.”  Perhaps you don’t think of nail polishes as part of your wardrobe, but I do. They can be changed as often as your outfits and can make as little or big a statement as you want, depending on the look and feel you’re going for.  

Just like our personalities show through the clothes we wear, our nail polish colors say a lot about who we are as well. For instance, some women love to wear bright red or electric blue on their finger nails. These women may be playful and outgoing.

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On the other hand, many women wear the same neutral color everyday and never consider straying from their comfort zone. Nail polish colors are very personal.

No matter what color you choose, the best part about nail polish is that you can change it in an instant and make it match whatever outfit or mood your in.

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Do you feel like wearing Ballet Slippers, Daffo Dill or Marooned On A Miracle Mile? These are just a few of the nail polishes you can find today. Not only are the names fun, but the colors are bright and playful. This season’s trends show colors such as oranges, aquas, greens and blues.

With endless color possibilities, it can be overwhelming to pick the right one. Here are some tips to help choose the best polish colors for you:

  • If manis and pedis aren’t in your budget, then consider purchasing some colors that you love at stores such as Target or CVS. Try some less expensive polish brands such as Sally Hansen or Bourghuese. If you’re looking to spend a little more for better quality and a longer lasting nail polish then look for Essie or OPI.  
  • If possible, always try to test a bit of the polish on the whole nail not just the tip to give you an idea of whether the color works on you.
  • French manicures are easier than you think. A great option is to find yourself a great French mani white polish and a top coat.  I create my own French manis all the time. (OK, they don’t look perfect but who is looking that closely anyway?)
  • Keep in mind that the colors for your “Girl’s Nights Out” may not be appropriate in a business environment.  
  • As your wardrobe changes, so too can your nail polish colors. For instance, you may want to pick more neutral or lighter tones for special events or perhaps a color to match a particular dress or outfit.
  • Try to complement the color jewelry you’re wearing (gold vs. silver).
  • Be aware of your skin tone. The best polish choices differ based on whether your skin is fair, medium or even darker shades. You want to try to contrast the polish color with your skin tone. For instance, it’s best to stay away from neutral tones that are the same shade as your skin tone because that could make your hands look boring and a bit bland. 
  • Keep in mind that the wrong shade, especially on longer nails, can often cheapen a look. Sometimes the bolder colors tend to work better on shorter nails.
  • No matter what color you choose, always try to create a polished look and maintain well-groomed nails.

Summer is a great time to mix it up and play with some colors you wouldn’t normally use. If it’s too daring to put mint green on your fingernails then why not try it for a pedicure. Showing off your toes in a cute pair of sandals with a cool summer color is what being a girl in summer time is all about. And remember, if you don’t like your color choice, grab some nail polish remover, find another color and voila.

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