Just when you thought burgundy nail polish had its limits, think again. Sure, it’s usually one of the most in-demand nail colors for fall, but I like to start busting out my burgundy shades as early as mid-summer (sue me).
It might be a moodier color, but it looks good on everyone, thanks to the different shades it comes in—there’s something for everyone! Certain ones lean more purple, while others fully embrace their red undertones, and some are as bold as to offer a touch of black. Whatever your fancy, it’s a color that should be embraced year-round, in my opinion. Nail artists also seem to agree. I polled them on what they think are the best burgundy nail polishes of all time, and they had a lot to share.
Ahead, you’ll find their favorite burgundy shades, plus a few of our favorites.
“My absolute favorite burgundy is LeChat’s Marilyn Merlot. It’s a very deep, dark burgundy that is slightly sheer with a touch of a purple undertone. It reminds me of a glass of really good vintage Bordeaux wine (or Merlot, for the name’s sake!). I love wearing this color on very short, natural nails because, during the day, sunlight pierces through the color to highlight the deep rich red in it, but almost looks black in a low-lighting environment. I love the fact that more layers can be applied to achieve a deeper, almost brownish-burgundy look.” — Hemi Park, LeChat Nails brand educator
Pictured: The Gel Bottle Nail Polish in Ruby Port
“As a nail tech, I’m pretty dedicated to the brand The Gel Bottle because of its huge color range… Ruby Port has a slight shimmer to it, so it’s absolutely perfect leading up to the holidays.” — Bari Elizabeth, NYC nail artist
Elizabeth also loves this rich burgundy shade from OPI for an at-home mani. It’s the perfect cocktail of rich purple and red hues.
This CND shade definitely leans a bit more purple but feels like the perfect color to wear to a special event. This polish also strengthens over time, eliminating the need for a base coat.
Pictured: LeChat Perfect Match Nail Polish in Royal Red
“My other favorite burgundy shade is LeChat’s Perfect Match Royal Red. It’s very close to red but with the intensity of a vampy red-burgundy. I would say it reminds me of [the LeChat shade] Red Ruby for its clarity and richness of color. Because of its translucent quality, it can be worn on any skin tone to look chic.” — Park
Elizabeth also loves the Essie shade called Thigh High, which appears to be sold out. This shade, however, is similar albeit with a glossy finish.
This decadent hue offers a darker take on your traditional burgundy. We’ll call it midnight burgundy, which Taylor Swift fans will appreciate.
This creamy, bold color from Orly is my favorite burgundy shade. It’s the perfect red wine color, and I love to wear it for fall.
Nailberry offers this highly pigmented and breathable nail polish with patented technology. It offers the highest quality in terms of color, shine, and long-term wearability.
Pictured: The Gel Bottle Nail Polish in Merlot on the ring finger.
“Merlot is everyone’s go-to for that perfect wine-colored shade, especially when finished with a matte top coat. I love adding some gold foil for an easy upgraded look!” — Elizabeth
