In anticipation of tonight’s Academy Awards (i.e. fashion’s biggest night), I am writing to you with, and about, red nails. Simply put, beautifully manicured red nails are one of style’s best accessories. Glamorous with a touch of retro, they make any outfit look more polished.

One word of advice: if you’re going red, please go short! Long nails in any dark color are a faux pas.