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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Oneonta chapter.

C’mon, don’t lie; we’ve all been there. We’re preparing ourselves for upcoming dates, gatherings, or interviews, and we struggle to decide which nail polish color is best for that occasion. We end up with a pile of used tissues; unwanted dry hands from polish remover, and frustration coming from our fingertips. Your nail polish selection should be stocked with all the basic essential colors, as well as the extravagant (similar to our wardrobe, of course). Forget the color nonsense. I’ve compiled a selection of colors perfect for you to be properly polished for every occasion.

For any conservative or traditional environment such as an interview:

I would recommend going with a mild or neutral colored polish. Your main nail-concern should be, “how do my nails make me look?” Pale pink polish is perfect for those professional moments in our lives. Nothing is worse than going into an interview with extravagant nails, panicking to yourself, “please hire me! I’m not as wild as my nails”.

Upcoming Date Night/ First Dates:

If you have an upcoming date night you’re preparing yourself for, chose a color that perfectly pairs with your outfit, but also gives you that romantic and flirty vibe. Choosing a metallic grey polish with a light color accent is always a go-to! What about a first date? Grab their attention and go for bold and sexy. There are so many delicious shades out there to compliment. Consider a daring red, creamy pink, or even a stunning fuchsia.

Holidays:

Holidays are the best time of year, amiright? Around the holidays I believe that anything goes. Express your inner sparkle and paint on those snowflakes or four leaf clovers to accentuate your spontaneous and festive personality.

Do I Sense a Shopping Spree Approaching?

I don’t know about you, but when I go on a shopping spree of any sort, I have to look my very best. I don’t feel my best unless my nails are well manicured and perfect. A deep maroon, vibrant blue, or a dark purple are great choices to get those babies noticed.

Light and Easy:

Light hues are very trendy right now. Going for nude colors are a very clean and classy choice for any occasion. These colors are so clean cut and beautiful, and are sure to match with any outfit choice.

Black is my Happy Color:

Polish Pet-Peeve? Black nail polish DOES NOT ultimately mean you are going Goth or representing a depressed personality. Black polish is my personal go-to color of choice for any day-to-day occasion. Black nails are a way to achieve an edgy, elegant, chic, and sexy look, all in one perfect polish. Don’t be afraid to embrace your inner mysteriousness. Besides, like the Neiman Marcus Group said, those “who wear black lead colorful lives.”

I am a firm believer that any manicure could boost your confidence and enhance your elegance. There is just something about perfectly polished nails that makes you believe you could conquer the world. So do yourself a favor and pamper yourself, you deserve it! 

Katherine Sanderson is currently a sophomore at SUNY Oneonta majoring in Communication Studies. She hails from a small town about 30 miles north of Albany, New York, where she began writing anything from poetry to short stories that express many of the things that she enjoys about life and love. Katherine began her writing career early in her high school education, first by writing for enjoyment, then challenging herself and entering different writing competitions. The American Library of Poetry has published Katherine in two of their book editions “Acclaimed” and “Discovered” in the years 2011 and 2013, which were two of her greatest writing accomplishments. For Katherine, writing is more than just a hobby, but more of a way to express her true self.
Kenzie Negron is currently a senior in college studying at SUNY Oneonta to pursue her dream career of being a high school english teacher as well as a part time journalist. Kenzie is the proud Campus Correspondent for the Her Campus Chapter at SUNY Oneonta. Kenzie is also the author of her own blog; http://sincerelykenz.com. In her spare time, Kenzie enjoys snowboarding, indulging in tacos, and hanging out with her friends. You can find out more information about Kenzie by following her on Twitter and Instagram (@kenzienegron).