What Color Nails For A Job Interview Are Best?

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When you are preparing for a job interview, you need to look your best. Regardless of the role, you need to look professional and presentable to make a good first impression. 

Your outfit, hair, and makeup all matter. But what about your nails?

What color nails for a job interview are best?

There are many colors that are appropriate for a job interview, but there are a few colors and styles that really don’t work, particularly heavily blingy, overly styled nails.

Most will suggest getting using neutral colors like gray, nude, blush pink, white, or navy. These colors go well with most interview-style outfits and aren’t too flashy. 

We’ve compiled a list below to help you choose which color to use for your job interview. 

Plus we’ll give you a few general tips when it comes to your nails and a job interview. 


Contents

Does Nail Color Matter at Job Interviews?

For most people, having clean, presentable nails is a reflection of your grooming, conscientiousness, and attention to detail.

Wouldn’t it be better if you look well-kept?

If you present yourself well, then your potential employer may think that you are responsible enough to fit in the position.

A little subtle color or simple nail art may put forth some personality and individual creativity. But if you’re going all out with rhinestones and major bling, your nails may be a turn-off to potential employers.

Press-On Nails With Bling

What Color Nails For A Job Interview?

Classic Nails

Knowing what color you want to use for your job interview can vary and will depend on a few factors. First, you have to coordinate it with your outfit, the job you are applying for, and your skin undertone

Some might wonder if it is really okay to have colored nails at all for a job interview. Well, that would depend on the colors that you select and the job that you are applying for. If you’re really concerned, just go with clean, shaped, unpainted nails. You will not go wrong.

If you’re really concerned, just go with clean, shaped, unpainted nails. You will not go wrong.

Additionally, make sure that you apply nail polishes, gel polishes, acrylics, or other artificial nail products as neatly as you can.

It’s not just about the color of your nails, but how they are done. 

Plain, traditional, solid colors are great because they are not too flashy. You want your interviewers to take in your nails as part of your whole professional presentation and look. You don’t want the interviewers to focus on your nails.

Avoid too intricate designs. Minimalist designs would be better. 

If you want a design, consider a classic French manicure (or the American counterpart). Simple, and elegant, goes with any outfit!

What about Nail Length and Shape?

Nail length and nail shape both should be considered for job interviews.

Avoid very long nails that are covered with rhinestones. Although they look great for parties or special occasions, they are not the best choice when it comes to job interviews. 

And when it comes to nail shape, stick to round, oval, and almond — the most classic nail shapes. Coffin nails and stiletto nails are poor choices for a job interview.


What Color Nails For A Job Interview Should You Use?

There are a few colors that are best suited for job interviews. They help your nails look presentable but not over the top. They will complete your look without being too much.

1. Neutral Colors

The first color family you should consider going with is the neutral colors. They are great if you are applying for jobs in various conservative industries like professional service fields, financial or legal. 

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The neutral colors  are quite easy to match with almost any outfit. They don’t necessarily need to match, but the great thing about them is that they won’t clash with them.

Such colors are as follows: 

  • Cream
  • White
  • Ivory
  • Champagne
  • Gray
  • Blush 
  • Nude
  • Brown
  • Beige
  • Sage green
  • Taupe

2. Classic Red

Although the classic red  color is not neutral, it can still look formal. Just make sure that you carefully choose your outfit to match it, and don’t pick a red that’s too intense.

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Red is a great color that could exude leadership and confidence.

3. Soft Pinks

The soft pink  shades are great as they aren’t that obvious. They can be good for interviews where you want to make an impression that you are caring or a good communicator. 

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4. The Greens

The green tones would not have been on the list 20 years ago, but as we’ve all become more comfortable with adventurous colors, green can work with some outfits, particularly if you’re wearing a green dress or suit.

When it comes to greens, we are not talking about the neons here (and if you were wondering, be careful with unusual hair colors when interviewing, as well).

If you want to wear green, emerald green  and forest green would be great. These colors are great if you were to apply for a job in the corporate sector.

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5. Plum

Plum  may look like it is a dark shade but it could work, depending on your outfit and the time of year.

It may exude an aura of dedication and seriousness. It’s great for jobs where you need to be focused and serious, like those in research. 

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6. Mustard

This color is great for a variety of skin tones. Many choose mustard tones because they are a bit unusual, but not CrAzY! The color can signify creativity and diversity. If you are applying for a job that involves art or creativity, then this color can work well for you. 

But like green, you can go wrong if you hit the wrong shade.

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Conclusion

When considering nail polish colors for a job interview, your best bet is to stay traditional. Once you get the job and understand the culture, you can express yourself with your nails without sticking out too much.

It’s not fun, but it’s best to start with clean, simple nails and go from there.

Written by Kayla Young

Kayla is the founder of LuxeLuminous. She has worked professionally in the tanning industry for years. She has been interested in esthetics since childhood, and has tried every hair, skin, and makeup product ever produced (more or less).