A short history of nail polish
From the nail colours described in ancient China to soak-off gel: how coloured nails moved from a mark of rank to an everyday form of self-expression.
History & Culture
From ancient pigments to modern nail art, a small canvas with a long story.
Coloured nails have signalled rank, glamour, rebellion and joy for thousands of years. In this rubric we follow nail polish from ancient pigments to the gel era, tell the story of the red nail and reflect on why a few millimetres of colour can say so much about who we are.
Red nails: the story of a classic
From henna and ancient China to a famous campaign of 1952: why red became the most iconic nail colour, and how to choose and wear the right red today.
Small canvas, big statement: nail art as self-expression
Why a few millimetres of colour matter so much: an essay on identity, ritual, creativity and the international culture of nail art.
Try it yourself
The Nail Quiz
Twelve questions drawn from our articles. How well do you know your nails?
Keep exploring
More rubrics
- Nail ArtTechniques, French tips and the quiet power of negative space.
- ManicureGel, BIAB, extensions and a home manicure that looks professional.
- Nail CareStrong nails, healthy cuticles and the myths worth leaving behind.
- ColourUndertones, colour harmony and a palette for every season.
- Shapes & StylesAlmond or square, chrome or milky: the shapes and finishes of the moment.
- Salon GuideHygiene, etiquette and what a really good appointment feels like.