These days,nail artruns 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.

“Our logo includes these chic glints of gold,” says Elle, 55, a realtor.

woman with white and pink swirly manicure

@imarninails/ Instagram

“Paint your nails in the way you want to be seenconfident and valuable.”

“I’m the social media manager for an aquarium,” says Starr, 27.

“In marketing, creativity is celebrated and I believe individuality should be too!”

A neutral nude manicure

@lolo.nailedit/ Instagram

“I love when candidates come in wearing styles we sell or of-the-moment manicures.

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.

foil manicure

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Feel Powerful in Red

A solidred manicureis many thingsbold, confident, and classic.

Negative Space

If you might’t resist a more intricate manicure, try one withnegative space.

Not only is this style grow-out friendly, but it also adds a sophisticated touch to your manicure.

@nailedbytoots green nails

@nailedbytoots

Barely There

@harrietwestmoreland

Calling all minimalists - your nail moment is here.

This subtle nail style is the perfect option for an old-school office environment.

Glazed Donut

Popularized by Hailey Bieber, glazed donut nails have taken over social media.

mauve nails

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These shimmery versions of solid shades are both stylish and professional.

Get a glazed white like the photo above or experiment with something bolder.

If lemons aren’t your thing, sub them out for something that feels more on-brand for you.

industry themed nails

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@brushedbyb_ design manicure

*@brushedbyb_*

rainbow french manicure

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@lolo.nailedit black nails

@lolo.nailedit

@imarninails geometric nail shapes

@imarninails

@lolo.nailedit red nails

@lolo.nailedit

@imarninails negative space manicure

@imarninails

barely there almond shaped manicure

@harrietwestmoreland

pearl lip gloss almond shaped manicure

A classic red manicure with an accent nail that features a heart and evil eye

@thehangedit/ Instagram

minimalist lemon nail art manicure

@betina_goldstein