When it comes to nails, there are an endless number of unique combinations that can look appealing to the eye. However, not each combination might be your own personal favorite. A good rule of thumb when you order a custom design is to know what colors you’re going for. Usually, I notice that while this is a part of the process that excites a lot of people - choosing their design - it can end up ruining the results if you’re not mindful about the colors. They kind of make or break the whole look and a color that you just aren’t feeling this season, might end up feeling a bit out of place. However, a press-on nail color combination that you like and looks exactly the way you pictured can enhance your style game and confidence!

Nail Color Theory

I firmly believe that playing around with colors is super important, and fun! Each color looks different on everyone. Nail color theory can be a helpful way of discerning which colors suit you the best. Here are some helpful tips for when considering nail color theory for your press-on nails:

• Colors in the same balance are easier to balance! I love a good color pop too, but keep in mind it doesn’t always work if there is no color cohesion in the palette.

• A nail color can be matched with your undertone by tweaking the base color.

• Some colors come out more depending on the season. For example, soft pastels like lilac, baby blue, and mint green tend to shine in the spring, evoking feelings of freshness and renewal, while deep tones like burgundy, emerald, and navy take center stage in the fall and winter, adding warmth and richness that match the cozy mood of the colder months.

• If you have a signature color, we can find a way to include that color in any design you have in mind! As long as we’re mindful of how we optimize the palette, most colors can work together.

Manicurist Paris

Understanding Color Palettes

Let's dive into some examples to see how different color choices create unique looks, and how understanding basic color theory can help you pick your perfect shade.

Caption:  Short Coffin, Short Square

Deep and rich colors go really well with muted yet vibrant shades. This deep teal with brick red and soft pink creates a sharp contrast. Diverse color palettes in these shades look particularly good, especially with a pattern and a rich accent nail. 

Caption: Medium Almond

With multi-pattern sets, I love using colors in a similar shade range. This orange and pink hue doesn’t overpower the pattern, and gives your nails a flattering soft aesthetic look. For people who like nude press-on nails, playing around with soft pastels is a great way of changing it up and still maintaining a clean and cohesive look.

Caption: Short Square, Extra Short Square

Contrary to popular belief, nude and neutral nails exist on a whole spectrum, from warm beige to light blush and pale yellow to deeper earthy browns. Finding the right shade of nude can be tricky. I have found that understanding your undertone is the best way to do it. If you have cool undertones, nudes with more pink or beige hues might be more flattering. For warmer undertones, nudes with more peach or golden brown shades can complement your complexion. 

Caption: Short Oval, Short Almond.

Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel and help to make the designs pop, such as a deep red against a warm beige. I also like to work with a lighter backdrop when creating themed nails, such as for the holiday season pictured here. 

Caption: Medium Almond

I love mixing a classic design with a unique element. A timeless french tip can be elevated with bows, geometric shapes, even cow print. Achromatic colors like black and white look both dramatic and crisp. If you think this look won;t suit your undertone, you can adjust that by changing the shade of the nude backdrop against the black and white tips. This look is versatile both because of and in spite of its intricate detail!

These are the ways in which I leverage nail color theory to create fun and flattering nail set designs. I love to discuss your ideas. If you think you have a nail art idea you’re wondering will look good or not, reach out to me on instagram even if you don’t plan to order a set! 

Hey there! If you liked reading this, you might find more stories that interest you in the LUNA LAB Blog. I write about press-on nails, founder life, small-business successes+failures, art & fashion, and more!