26 February 25

The Vibrant History of the Classic Red Nail Polish

Red nails, whether you're rocking a trendy burgundy or a vibrant classic, they both are undeniably iconic. Red nail polish has a fascinating history that spans centuries and it’s too interesting not to share the details. It is a colour that everybody can wear; it is just a case of choosing the right tone - but we’ll get to that later in the blog. First, let’s explore the journey of red, from ancient royalty to the modern runways!

By the way, here’s a fun fact to kick things off: red is the first colour that humans mastered – from breaking it down into different shades to reproducing it in fabrics.

Ancient beginnings: the power of red

The story of nail colour begins over 5,000 years ago in ancient Babylon and China. While the Babylonians used kohl to paint their nails before battle, Chinese royalty embraced nail colours as a status symbol. In ancient China, red nails symbolised power and privilege, with members of the ruling class flaunting their brightly coloured nails to distinguish themselves from commoners. Their formula was far from today’s nail polish, let alone gel polish; they used a mix of natural dyes, beeswax, and egg whites.

Cleopatra and her crimson nails

Fast forward to ancient Egypt, where red nails were a statement of strength and sophistication. Cleopatra herself was a fan of red, reportedly using henna to dye her nails a deep, rich shade. Red was more than just a colour; it was a symbol of her royal status and fierce persona.

The roaring twenties and the rise of red

The modern era of nail polish began in the 1920s, when red became more than just a colour for royalty. It all began because of the technological advances in the automotive industry, as the eary nail lacquers were inspired by car paint. Yes, you read that right! By the mid-1920s, the first commercially successful nail polish was launched. Red quickly became a favourite, thanks to its association with Hollywood glamour. Stars like Clara Bow and Jean Harlow sported crimson nails, making them a must-have for the fashionable elite

Red nails and feminine empowerment

Red nail polish took on a new meaning in the 1940s and 1950s, symbolising confidence and feminine empowerment. During World War II, women entered the workforce in unprecedented numbers, and red nails became a subtle yet powerful way to express individuality and resilience. Iconic figures like Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth solidified red nails as a hallmark of elegance and allure.

In the 80s and 90s, red nails continued to evolve, reflecting the diverse trends of the music and fashion industries. From the bold, lacquered nails of punk rockers to the perfectly manicured cherry reds of supermodels, the colour remained a powerful symbol of self-expression.

The gel revolution: red nails reimagined

Fast-forward to today, red nails remain as captivating as ever. With advancements in nail technology, we’ve come a long way from ancient beeswax concoctions and car-paint-inspired lacquers. Now, gel polish has revolutionised the nail industry, offering a modern solution for long-lasting, high-gloss nails.

At Pink Gellac, we’re proud to offer an array of stunning red shades. From bold fiery orange-reds to deep, sophisticated burgundies, our collection breathes new life into this classic colour, making it perfect for every style and occasion.

A timeless classic

Red nails will always remain a timeless classic. It’s a colour that transcends age, style, and occasion. We see celebrities rocking all shades of red on the red carpet, from classic crimson to darker, vampy shades. Red nail polish is a staple in many makeup kits, offering a quick and easy way to add a touch of glamour to any look.

Discover all shades of red and which one suits you best

If you don’t know the undertone of your skin colour, than please discover this blog about that first.

Classic Bright Red

Bright red is vibrant and universally flattering. It’s perfect for making a
bold statement and complements a variety of skin tones. Our 430 Bombshell Red is a true classic bright red.

Orange-Red

Orange-red shades bring a fiery and energetic vibe. These are perfect for those who have a warmer undertone. Opt for 107 Cheerfull Red, 108 Lady in Red, or 210 Tangerine Red.

Blue-Based Red

Blue-based reds have a cooler undertone. Our classic 109 Lipstick Red, along with the slightly deeper 355 Royal Red, are stunning blue-based shades, perfect for cool-toned skin.

Coral Red

Coral red combines red with hints of orange or pink, creating a fresh and
summery feel. This shade is perfect for warmer months and adds a playful touch. For a more pink undertone, choose 142 Coral Red, and for a more orange undertone, choose 133 Fuchsia Red.

Deep Burgundy

Dark, burgundy red shades are sophisticated and ideal for fall and winter. These deeper hues exude elegance and mystery. A great option is 332 Sangria Red, a dark tone with a slightly purple undertone. Or 199 Luscious Red, a bit lighter than 332 Sangria Red and a more classic 173 Bordeaux colour. If you like shimmer, choose 205 Burgundy Red or 431 Royal Ruby.

Why We’ll Always Love Red Nail Polish

So, why does red remain the ultimate nail colour? Its versatility is unmatched – it can be bold and daring or elegant and understated. Red nails transcend trends and seasons, making them a staple in every beauty lover’s collection. More importantly, they tell a story – of power, femininity, and self-expression. Also red comes back in trends by all different colours, so the burgundy tone of red is now unbelievably trending. We cannot not see it, right?! We see it everywhere, as full on outfits or subtle details in accessories and of course, in the nails as the cherry on the cake. From the ancient palaces of China to your at-home Pink Gellac manicure, red nails have truly stood the test of time.
Ready to add a bit of history to your fingertips? Explore our collection of red gel polishes and find your perfect shade. After all, nothing says “timeless beauty” like a classic red mani.

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