Merlot Nails Are the Most Luxurious Way to Wear a Red Manicure This Fall

I’ve never been a big fan of a classic red manicure on myself, but when it comes to deeper shades, I’m all in. Burgundy nails, black cherry nails, spiced cherry nails... these are all my speed. So, when a new expensive-looking crimson shade came along this fall, I was automatically on board. Meet merlot red nails, the rich, wine-inspired shade that’s giving my usual fall manicure colors some very chic competition. (I love a good glass of red wine almost as much as I love a good fall manicure, so this trend has been especially intriguing.)These high-gloss, juicy nails combine red with subtle purple and berry undertones for a rich, full-bodied color (much like a full-bodied bottle of merlot). Ahead, I’ll break down everything you need to know about trending merlot nails, including inspo pics and how to tips from nail artist Vikki Swan.As the name suggests, merlot nails take inspiration from the deep, reddish-purple color of a glass of merlot wine. These manicures use burgundy and dark cherry red polishes that have subtle berry or plum undertones for a rich, multi-dimensional finish. Unlike a bright cherry red manicure, merlot is deeper and more muted, making it particularly great for fall and winter, and also making it super versatile and easy to wear. “Merlot red is a classic in its own way, just like traditional red nails, but with a deeper, more seasonal feel,” says Swan. “The darker wine tone gives the manicure a fall mood and makes it look richer and more elegant. It’s expressive, but still very versatile and easy to incorporate into different fall looks.”How to achieve merlot nailsThe easiest way to get merlot nails is to find a polish that resembles your favorite glass of vino tinto. Look for deep wine and red-burgundy shades, recommends Swan, rather than a traditional bright red or nearly-black oxblood.Prep is key for any manicure, but “this is especially important with dark and red shades,” says Swan. “If the cuticle and nail plate are not prepared properly, the final result will not look as clean and polished.” Dark colors emphasize imperfections on the nail and cuticle line, meaning you want to ensure dead skin is removed from the cuticle area and the nail is totally clean. “The cuticle area needs to be cleaned thoroughly so the color can be applied neatly and evenly without flooding the skin,” says Swan.Once your nails are prepped, apply two thin coats of your favorite merlot polish and finish with a top coat of your choice. A super glossy one works well, but “I also like a matte finish with small gold accents,” says Swan. She also advocates for a merlot French manicure or micro French if you wanna incorporate a little minimalist nail art. Now, top off that glass and check out these merlot red nail ideas that will make your fingertips look absolutely regal.Merlot manicure ideas:@disseynails@themaniclub@overglowedit@chai.nails.studio@samrosenails@disseynailsMeet the expertVikki Swan is a licensed nail technician, nail artist, and international nail educator based in Los Angeles. She specializes in Russian manicure, hard gel techniques, and nail architecture, and teaches nail professionals internationally through her online education platform, Nail Insider Club.Why trust Cosmopolitan?Catharine Malzahn is a contributing beauty writer at Cosmo. She’s covered and tested all things nails, from the coolest new polish colors to cuticle care and nail art trends.Catharine Malzahn is a contributing beauty writer at Cosmopolitan and was previously the beauty assistant at Good Housekeeping, Woman's Day, and Prevention.