Oxblood-hued nails are fresh for fall with layered shades for a rich effect

The deep red shade of oxblood gained popularity some seasons back as a rich and sophisticated alternative to pitch black. And while pastels are definitely trending this season, fall runways suggest that the midnight crimson hue will be reappearing in a big way very soon. “I think this color is a classic that will always remain fresh because it’s rich and vivid,” says Essie manicurist Elle Gerstein of the universally flattering shade. “It goes well with all skin tones, and it’s a wearable dark that isn’t black.”

Designers including Catherine Malandrino, Paul Smith and Jenny Packham showed models with oxblood-tipped fingers, which almost always was a color custom-created for the presentation by brands like Essie and CND using a combo of pre-existing colors. Says Gerstein, “Layering can make this color fresh and new. Adding a red like Essie’s Masquerade Belle over Carry On creates shine and depth. You can also put Decadent Diva underneath Wicked to really create a powerful pop and a new twist on burgundy.”

Despite being a “neutral” shade, it’s far from boring. The matching lip/nail combo at Jenny Packham felt both nostalgic and fresh while Catherine Malandrino’s more nude lip made the nail lacquer pairing of Plumville and Dark Ruby pop. “Burgundy is a great versatile shade to experiment with. If you’re feeling a little Gaga-esque or want to play a vixen like Rhianna,” says Gerstein, “try wearing it on a stiletto nail to truly show a vamp statement. But for the girl-next-door type, like Sandra Bullock, keep a short or square nail to display this deep and complementary shade in a classic yet sexy manner.”