Work Nail Ideas That Are Still Cute, According to HR Pros

woman with white and pink swirly manicure — @imarninails / Instagram

Picking out the perfect outfit and doing your hair and makeup are usually the first orders of business ahead of a job interview, but forget about your nails. These days, nail art runs the gamut from understated and sophisticated to intricate and sometimes a little overwhelming. But occasionally those over-the-top designs aren't the most professional. For insight into stylish yet appropriate nail looks, we spoke to hiring managers about what they look for. Ahead, we've rounded up 15 nail looks to wear to your next job interview (and to the office once you get the job).

01 of 15

Simple Shades

A neutral nude manicure — @lolo.nailedit / Instagram

"I celebrate self-expression—so [a manicure] would never impact negatively on my decision," says Charli, 26, a creative director. "I would, of course, notice colors that were more in line with the brand, which is quite androgynous. So a blue, black, or neutral rather than a pink, red or glitter would immediately feel 'on brand' to me."

02 of 15

Pretty Pop of Foil

One way to show that you're willing to go the extra mile is to get a manicure that matches the company's branding. "Our logo includes these chic glints of gold," says Elle, 55, a realtor. "So I'm always impressed by candidates that incorporate a bit of our company culture into their style."

03 of 15

Earthy Green

@nailedbytoots green nails — @nailedbytoots

In color psychology, green is claimed to invoke feelings of tranquility and good luck, making it a perfect shade to kick pre-interview jitters. "Boss nails come in whatever shape and color make you feel the most confident," adds Nikki, an HR executive. "Paint your nails in the way you want to be seen—confident and valuable."

04 of 15

More Mauve

Mauve matches well with most colors, including many lipstick shades, which makes it easy to color coordinate. "I appreciate anything that shows a candidate has attention to detail," says June, 34, a manager at Sephora. "I once interviewed a woman who coordinated her nail polish shade to her lipstick, and as someone in the beauty industry, it spoke volumes to me that she thought to do this."

05 of 15

Nails That Speak to Your Industry

To show your appreciation of the industry you're in, have fun with a manicure that features some element of the job. "I'm the social media manager for an aquarium," says Starr, 27. "When I was hiring an assistant, I interviewed a candidate who had a seashell design on her nails. I hired her because she was qualified and not because of her manicure, but it made me think, 'wow, she loves marine life so much that it's all over her nails.'"

Key Takeaways

What HR pros deem professional can vary greatly depending on the industry, but well kept nails are always a good idea.
Nail art that gives a subtle nod to your field can be a creative way to show your commitment to your work.
Remember that you can choose for your nails to be a reflection of your personality, interests and style.

06 of 15

Gradient Nails

@brushedbyb_ design manicure — @brushedbyb_

If you've narrowed things down to a particular color but can't decide on the perfect shade, gradient nails are a great way to incorporate multiple shades within the same color family. "As a graphic designer, I appreciate manicures that show a candidate has a natural eye for color and composition," says Camden, 24.

07 of 15

French With a Twist

One marketing manager reminds us that it's less about the color or design you choose and more about intentionality. "I think anyone who has well-kept nails, no matter what color, makes a good impression for me," says Kim, 28. "In marketing, creativity is celebrated and I believe individuality should be too!"

08 of 15

Midnight Black

@lolo.nailedit black nails — @lolo.nailedit

Keep in mind that no design or shade is off-limits, even darker hues that might not traditionally be considered ideal for interviews. “When I interview people for a position, you want to see their personality and attention to detail," says Merredieth, a boutique manager.

09 of 15

Geometric Designs

@imarninails geometric nail shapes — @imarninails

"I work in fashion, so everything we design and promote is trend-driven," says Elaine, 35, an executive for an online fashion boutique. "I love when candidates come in wearing styles we sell or of-the-moment manicures. It shows me that they're similar to our consumers, and we want people on our team who know what our consumers like."

Byrdie Tip

When choosing a professional-looking manicure, consider the job you are applying for. Jobs in creative industries tend to have more freedom than jobs in the traditional corporate world.

10 of 15

Feel Powerful in Red

@lolo.nailedit red nails — @lolo.nailedit

A solid red manicure is many things—bold, confident, and classic. Show that you're a leader with any variation of this shade, which tends to invoke feelings of strength.

11 of 15

Negative Space

If you can't resist a more intricate manicure, try one with negative space. When it comes to nails, negative space refers to colorful nail designs with some of your natural nail peaking through. Not only is this style grow-out friendly, but it also adds a sophisticated touch to your manicure.

12 of 15

Barely There

Calling all minimalists - your nail moment is here. This subtle nail style is the perfect option for an old-school office environment. Not too flashy, it smooths out ragged edges and covers any discoloration, giving you a "your nails, but better" look.

The Biggest Manicure Trend Right Now Is Your Nails But Better

13 of 15

Glazed Donut

Popularized by Hailey Bieber, glazed donut nails have taken over social media. These shimmery versions of solid shades are both stylish and professional. Get a glazed white like the photo above or experiment with something bolder.

14 of 15

Accent Nail

If you are looking to try a fun nail design but are hesitant about being too over-the-top, try incorporating an accent nail. The rest of your fingers can show off your favorite solid swipe while one can feature a pretty pop of contour or nail art.

15 of 15

Minimalist Nail Art

minimalist lemon nail art manicure — @betina_goldstein

If you're looking for a way to incorporate your personality into your manicure, while still keeping things subdued, try nail art on bare nails. In Betina Goldstein's look featured above, she painted mini lemons on two nails for a statement-making yet subtle manicure. If lemons aren't your thing, sub them out for something that feels more on-brand for you.

15 Professional Nail Ideas That Are Still Cute, According to Hiring Managers