These 7 Red Nail Colours Will Never Go Out Of Style

When it comes to selecting the best red nail polish, we’re definitely very spoilt for choice. There are literally thousands of red nail polish options with hues ranging from cherry to crimson.

But here’s the great news: whichever one you choose, red nail polish is an aesthetic that’ll truly never go out of style. It’s as chic and reliable as our beloved French mani, just a touch more fun. And while we love an on-trend nail art moment from time to time, the classics are classics for good reason.

As for which option is the best red nail polish for you, allow us to guide you through an edit of some of our absolute favourites…

Best red nail polishes

Best Celeb Red

CND Shellac in ‘Devil Red’

We Say: While her nails might not have been what we were focusing on, we’ve found the Rihanna approved Superbowl shade. 

Just be aware that this long-wearing shellac does require a LED light for curing (read, setting), the polish. But once set (and it’s quick), you’ll be free from chipping and smudging for weeks of wear. 

$29.95 at Salon Shop Online

Best Cool-toned Red:

Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in ‘Bubbles Only’

We Say: This cool-toned red is a chic beauty staple, created with a curve hugging brush that gives you the perfect coat of polish across your nails with one easy swipe. With its at-home gel-like formula, you’re saved the hassle of a trip to the salon without sacrificing any of the salon quality. 

You Say: “I love the brand essie and their nail polishes. All of these gel polishes are absolutely amazing. They make my nails look super good, sturdy and high quality. It dries super quickly which is amazing and has little to no bubbles when applied! The brush is so big that it covers all nails in one swipe which is so good. The brush picks up the perfect amount of product, which honestly makes it amazing! It’s so affordable and found at most chemists. I highly recommend this brand!” – zahliamulder

Want to know more? Read more essie Gel Couture Nail Polish reviews here..
$17.99 at Adore Beauty

Best Burgundy Red:

Pax Polish Nail Colour + Treatment in ‘Glennon’

We Say: Unlike the rest of the nail polishes we see, Pax Polish has been designed with an elongated application handle, acting as an extension of your hand while you apply. Pax Polish have created a deep beautiful burgundy red that does more than wow. Made from 82 percent sustainable plant-sourced ingredients and with nail health-enhancing ingredients such as celery seed extract, pomegranate seed oil and vitamins B & E, your nails will be left nourished long after the polish is gone. 

$31 at Sephora

Best Bright Red:

Kester Black Nail Polish in ‘Rouge’

We Say: Hyper-pigmented and richly vibrant, this bright red is reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour, and sure to turn heads! Giving you a salon quality mani, (sans the nasties) and working with 83 percent plant sourced natural ingredients, your non-toxic nail polish desires have at last been answered. 

$28 at Kester Black

Best Winter Red:

OPI Nail Lacquer in ‘Malaga Wine’

We Say: This perfect winter red has us dreaming of sipping mulled wine by an open fire. With a wide brush that easily delivers the perfect creme texture, it’s no wonder why OPI is the salon go-to brand of choice. Our bh reviewers have been loving this consistency and all the different shades available. 

Want to know more? Read more OPI Nail Lacquer reviews here…
$20.95 at Adore Beauty

Best Sparkling Red:

Mavala Switzerland Mini Color Nail Polish in ‘Red Cosmic’

We Say: It sparkled and shimmered its way into our hearts, and so we’ve definitely mentally filed this one under ‘festive season favourite’. But don’t let that stop you from dazzling year round with this cosmic colour. Made without animal testing or ingredients, and without any nasties, Mavala is doing right by the world while it dazzles us.

You Say: “The formula is smooth and easy to apply, not streaky and leaves a smooth surface with a very natural sheen to it. It has great coverage and I only needed one coat. It also lasts well and doesn’t chip. I’ve used various nail polish brands and I was very impressed with this. I’ll certainly look for it when I’m in the market for other nail polish colours.” – jupiter

Want to know more? Read more Mavala Switzerland Reviews here…

$9.95 at Mavala

Best Shimmer Red:

Smith & Cult Nail Polish in ‘Seek Me Out’

We Say: Searching for a bold cherry red with elevated shimmer? Smith & Cult have created it. It’s formulated with an extra high-shine finish that seeks out the light to glisten, while a slimline brush delivers a game-changing, self-levelling formula that dries evenly on your nail, so yes, consider yourself saved from that ‘is it dry yet?’ touch that inevitably ends up smudging all your hard work.

$32 at Adore Beauty

Main Image Credit: Getty Images 

Will you be painting your nails red anytime soon? Do you have a favourite red polish?