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Universally flattering, a classic red nail is truly timeless. From Marilyn Monroe’s signature deep red manicure, to OPI’s time-honoured Big Apple Red, a chic red nail polish looks instantly grown-up and polished. Offering an unusually neutral stance, a red nail offers wear-with-everything-appeal in spite of it’s vivid hue. We’ve rounded up some of the best red nail polishes on the market – pretty bottles included.

Christian Louboutin Beauty Matte Nail Colour

Christian Louboutin Beauty, Matte Nail Colour in Rouge Louboutin, Dhs225, SHOP NOW

Modelled on the highest heel Christian Louboutin ever created, this dramatic bottle is iconic in the beauty world. Seen on the dressing tables of fashionistas across the globe, the nail colour is, of course, intense red, and glides evenly onto the nail for a salon-worthy look. Available in five shades, the nail colour features a matte finish for a contemporary twist.

Jimmy Choo Hollywood Red Nail Polish

Jimmy Choo, Hollywood Red Nail Polish, Dhs160, SHOP NOW

Encased in a beautiful, faceted bottle, the glass facets aim to capture the light and enhance the pigment in the polish. Perfect for creating a refined manicure, the polish features a curved brush for detailed application.

Inglot Breathable Nail Enamel

Inglot, O2M Breathable Nail Enamel 652, Dhs69, SHOP NOW

Owing its breathable qualities to an advance polymer, this formula allows air and water to pass through the nail plate and keep natural nails healthy. Combine this with long lasting shine and pigmented shades and you’ve got a match made in heaven. This deep berry red is the perfect choice if you are searching for a more subtle shade and looks fantastic on short and long talons alike.

Kiko Milano Smart Nail Lacquer

Kiko Milano, Smart Nail Lacquer in Scarlet Red, Dhs19, SHOP NOW

This is the perfect polish for gals on the go. The special formula’s ingredients ensures that the nail polish is set in just a few seconds, ideal for last minute manis. Giving a deep, rich red shade, this Kiko polish gives glossy nails with only a fraction of the time, or cost for a salon trip.

Gucci Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish

Gucci, Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish in Shade 25, Approx. Dhs110, SHOP NOW

Easy to apply, with a custom-designed brush shape, this red nail polish by Gucci glides on effortlessly without leaving streaks. Fully vegan, Gucci’s nail polishes have been hailed for their quick drying formula, which leaves you with refined red nails in a matter of mere minutes.

Rimmel 60 Seconds Nail Polish

Rimmel, 60 Seconds Nail Polish Nail Colour by Rita Ora in 315 Queen Of Tarts, Dhs10, SHOP NOW

As far as drugstore nail polishes go, this is one of the best in the business. For less than the cost of your morning cappuccino you can have high-impact shiny red talons, with a super quick drying time of just 60 seconds.

Essie Russian Roulette Nail Polish

Essie, Essie 61 Russian Roulette Nail Polish, Dhs47, SHOP NOW

Launched over 40 years ago, Essie is a brand which has stood the test of time. Selling more than 10 million bottles since its debut in 1981, the formula has a clear solvent base and pure micro-milled pigments for chip-resistant colour and a long lasting finish.

OPI Big Apple Red Nail Polish

OPI, Big Apple Red Nail Polish, Dhs52, SHOP NOW

One of the most recognisable nail brands, OPI is known for elegant and rich shades. A true pillar-box red, their Big Apple Red nail polish is as classic as they come. Pair with a matching red lip for maximum impact.