The color red is having a moment right now, and it’s not just because of the feel-good theories linked to it. From copper hair to bold red lipsticks, the hue has been at the center of some of the year’s biggest beauty trends. As far as manicures go, red has always been a staple nail polish shade. Classic, daring, and elegant—it’s the kind of nail color you can rely on to elevate your look. But that doesn’t mean it’s one note. While glossy tips are forever chic, red metallic nails add an edgy twist that’s perfect for fall—think chrome elements and mirror-like shine. If you’re searching for a fresh manicure look, a red metallic polish might be just what you need to shake things up. Luckily, Instagram is brimming with inspiration. Below, we’ve rounded up the best red metallic nail looks to try right now.
Candy-Apple Glaze
Hailey Bieber’s glazed donut nails are one of the biggest nail trends on the internet. This set uses chrome powder to create the same effect and give a classic red polish a fun update.
Floral Design
Flowers are often used to accent springy manicures with punchy pastel colors (groundbreaking amirite?). This look flips that philosophy and pairs delicate daisies with a sleek red metallic polish. The result is nothing less than stunning.
Scarlet Cat-Eye
Cat-eye manicures have taken the internet by storm. The effect is created with a magnetic polish with flecks of metal to create a reflective look. Any hue would be alluring, but a scarlet shade has even more charm. Just one coat and a layer of glossy topcoat are all that’s needed for a stunning look.
4 / 7
Red Chrome French Manicure
When you need a fresh twist for your French manicure, consider adding chrome tips. This set takes things one step further and uses a curved design instead of the classic crisp white tip. The result? A sleek manicure dripping with red chrome polish.
Striped Design
Simple elements, like swirls and lines, can make your nail design feel artsy and cool. Even better? They’re easy to DIY. In this manicure, metallic stripes provide the perfect “simple” design amid the shiny red nails.
6 / 7
Black-Cherry Metal Tips
Dark cherry is on track to become one of the season’s top colors. From wild cherry hair to bold lip combos, it’s clear that the hue will be sticking around for some time. To up the ante, try pairing your beauty look with this equally daring manicure.
7 / 7
Oxblood Ombré
Deep, moody ombré nails are ideal for fall, and this manicure proves it. The set features a melodious blend of reds, including oxblood, cherry, and candy apple. But the ombré effect isn’t the only eye-catching element. The smooth metal finish is the true star and puts this manicure in a lane of its own.
