A Dozen Ways to Wear Color Block… On Your Nails!

There doesn’t ever need to be a reason to brighten up your nail color palette, but achieving a kick-a color block mani is totally one of them. If you ask us, this geometric nail art benefits from a range of vibrant colors (you know us, the bolder the better!). So grab your nail striping tape: it’s time to pull some seriously cool shapes with these 12 color block manis you should try now.

1. Cali Clash Nail Art: There’s something about this combo of fuchsia, apple red, and a shiny gold stud that is super striking—maybe because we’re still high on romance from Valentine’s Day, maybe because it screams Kate Spade. Whatever the case, we’re obsessed! (via Uncovet)

2. Orange and Nude Nail Art: If orange is the new black, then nude polish is its most trusted P.I.C., especially on this cool color block mani. It’s one way you can rock orange nail art and not worry about it looking Halloween-y. (via Pshiiit)

3. Geo Color Block Nail Art: The black lines that separate the color blocks make this swoon-worthy nail art palette pop. As much as we love gold glitter polish, it’s refreshing to see it take a back seat to less glitzy shades. (via Wonder Forest)

4. Colorblock Nails: OMG! These color block nails rule! This blogger posted the pic as inspo for killer multi-colored nails, and we’re more than happy to pass the torch along. (via Oh Mai Darling)

5. Faux Chippd Polish: Nail hack! Got chipped polish around your fingertips? Add a color block coat over it to disguise. Genius! (via Isla Everywhere)

6. Mosaic Nails: This multi-block mani really puts the art in nail art. We don’t doubt that this look takes some serious practice to complete, but once it is, rest assured that your nails are the most enviable around. (via Pshiiit)

7. White Nails + Black Marker: The trick to getting such precise black color blocks? Use a Sharpie! The permanent marker’s thin tip makes it easy to get almost perfect edges without much fuss. (via Isla Everywhere)

8. Pink and Red Color Block: Get this glossy look by adding dual blocks of color to your nails first, then brush on the shiny topcoat. We love the way this nail art looks with a completely clear base. (via I Spy DIY)

9. Contrast Nail Color Block: This is the ultimate low-key color block look. Add the banding to just your ring finger for a subtle contrast to the rest of your perfectly painted nails. (via Love, Blair)

10. Pastel Color Block Nail Art: We’ve featured this look before when we gushed about the sparkling silver striping tape, but now we’ve moved onto gawking over those dreamy pastel color block tips. That combo of baby blue and mint green is perfection. (via Pshiiit)

11. Cool Color Block Nails: Here’s a bold color block look that we can totally get behind! The slight asymmetry keeps the nail art as interesting as it is colorful. (via Fashion Polish)

12. Mini Color Blocks Nail Art: What a super cool take on a color block mani! Tiny squares of polish act as a technicolor stripe that’s insanely eye-catching. We’d try this style in a gradient or in repeating colors, too! (via So Nailicious)

Which style is your fave? Talk to us in the comments below.

October 31 may seem light-years away, but if last-minute Halloween costumes stress you out, then you know it’s never too early to start planning for a killer getup. Makeup and hair are a given, but the perfect costume isn’t complete without an amazing mani. This year we’ve pulled out all the stops with a mega-roundup of the scariest, spookiest, and all-around amazing Halloween nails ever. From black-cat French tips to pumpkin-face nail art to the most stellar sugar-skull nails we’ve *ever* seen, here are 40 manicures that are basically costumes for your nails.


DIY Halloween Nail Art To Try

Brit + Co

Snakebite Nail Art

Okay, technically these have a little bit of red on them. But we think you’ll forgive us and our favorite nail artist SF Party Nail AKA Taylor Watson.

Bellacures

Red Blood French Tips

Your decision to dress as Jason Vorhees for Halloween won't be complete with these red blood french tips. They're the perfect complement to the faux bloody machete you'll be carrying.

Brit + Co

Golden Ratio

Perfect for the lazy-girl nail artist who wants to hit two holidays with just one mani. Do this on Halloween day and then carry it all the way into the New Year!

Brit + Co

Cute Cat Ear Tips

This is a great mani option for anyone and everyone who wants to be on the couch with their cats at any given moment. Just use a thinner brush to make the triangles for the ears. You can use another brush or even the tip of a bobby pin to dot on the eyes!

Bellacures

Burgundy Nails With Gold Flecks

Craft a sweet witch's brew to match your burgundy nails with gold flecks.

Keiko Lynn

Black + White FTW

We’re loving this multimedia version of *all* the Halloween themes.

Bellacures

Black With White Spider Nail Design

If you don't have a fear of spiders, let this white spider design help you craft the perfect Halloween treat.

Depois Dos Quinze

Stitch of Lilo & Stitch

Let these Hawaiian nails add some fun to your Halloween costume. Don’t worry, they won’t cause as much havoc as you think.

Bellacures

Black and White Spooky Halloween

Your scary Halloween costume won't be complete with this black and white nail design.

Bellacures

All That Glitters

If you love all things glam, you don't have to wait until New Years to go crazy with the glitter. Pick darker colors to make this mani extra moody.

Halloween Nail Art Inspo

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Liza Waitzman on Instagram: "I hope these skeletal nails helped with her anatomy exams 🤣🤣🤣🤣 💀💀💀 • • • #anatomynails #anatomy #skeletalnails #skeletonnails #skeleton #lizawaitzman #dasnailhaus #nailgamestrong #ntnaliza #sandiego #sandiegonails #nails #nailart #dopenails #nailsonfleek #love #ilovemyjob #notd #nailsdid #nailsifinstagram #nailsmagazine #nailsmag #allhandpainted #handpaintednailart"

Bony Gal

Keep your Halloween digits looking eerie with a skeleton design scattered along your nails. A matte black and red polish underneath looks even more appropriate for the holiday.

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• B R I T N I E S U E • on Instagram: "Natural almond shaped nails. Yes... NATURAL! Files By Less keeps the integrity of your natural nails in mind at all times! . . . Model: @j_me_katherine 🕷🕷 . . . Use code: brit05 at checkout for an additional 20% off PLUS FREE SHIPPING! #nailsbybritnie #handpainted #utahnails #naturalnails #marblenails #spidernails #gelpolish #blackout #dualcoat @nailpromagazine @unitednailcommunity @filesbyless"

Feelin’ Spidey

Scare the ish out of all the arachnophobes with your spooky spider nails.

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Ashley Cristobal on Instagram: "👻"

Spooky Minimalist

A ghostly manicure instantly puts you in the Halloween spirit. Plus, if you’re more of a minimalistic gal, this simple design will ring true.

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Cactus Blossom Nail Studio on Instagram: "Client #nailie! Nails for the Sturgis Rally! #gelpolish #gelmanicure #sturgis #sturgisrally #skullnails #bikernails #chrome #chromenails #floralnails #stripenails"

Sweet Skulls

Even if you’re not a fan of Halloween, these designs let you take part in October fun without the spook factor. This manicure is trendy and colorful and will match any outfit you pair it with.

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Brittney aka Nailgazms ✨ on Instagram: "My client decided to change up her shape and go BOLD! #nailgazms #halloweennails #halloween #mattenails #nailfoil #pointednails #stilettonails #nails #nailart #nailtech #nailsmagazine October.23.2016"

Mixed Finishes

You don’t have to deck out your digits in skulls and ghosts to be festive. A fancy orange and black mani gives you just the right amount of edgy flair.

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Rebecca McParland on Instagram: "I see you 👀 #handpaintednailart #handpaintednails #orangenails #summernailart #summernails #nailtrends #shortnails #coffinshapenails #shortcoffinnails #eyes #eyenails #eyenailart #weirdnails #cutenails #creepynails #lovenails #nailartist #nailartqueen #nailart #naildesigns #nailideas #bestnailtechs #bestnailsalon #awardwinningsalon #blueeyes #nailstyle"

Orange Evil Eye

The evil eye can mean a curse in many cultures around the world. What better way to celebrate the spooky holiday than with protective nails featuring these talismans?

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Madeline Poole on Instagram: "@sally_hansen cuticles :)"

Twist on a French

Pair your black polish with a simple white to elevate and invert this classic, yet very Halloween-appropriate, finish.

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Shimmer and Spiders

Statement nails featuring sparkles and spider webs turn the dial up on Halloween glam. Balance it out with a neutral gray shade as your base color or keep it negative with a bare nail layered with a top coat.

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✨ on Instagram: "In Loveeeeee ✨ #biancascantina #chicagonails #chicagonailtech #littlevillagenails #nailsofinstagram #cateye #purple💜 #nailed #nails💅 #nailart #nailporn #nailswag #naildesigns #nailsonfleek #nailsaddict #nailgasm #ombre #ombrenails #blacknails #blackombrenails #blackandnude"

Scratch It Up

Destroyed ombre nails feel spooky but still stylish. Achieve this jagged mani look by coating your nail with black and using a scratcher tool to uncover the natural hue underneath.

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Sarah Berry on Instagram: "Super cute black cat 🐱 Halloween nails for Lisa! I couldn't find the artist's name, but the inspo was found on Pinterest! 😽 #berrygoodnailz #nailart #freehandnailart #nails #blackcat #blackcatnails #halloween #halloweennails #halloweennailart #catnails #catnailart #cateyes #gelish #harmonygelish #blacknails #opiproducts #opi #gelnails #naturalnails #portland #portlandmaine #maine"

Spooky Kitty

Instead of opting for the scary nail art route, go spooky. Cute, pointy-eared kitties are purrfect for Halloween.

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Chillhouse on Instagram: "For the inner artist in you 🎨 Tier II Design “Matisse” by @dawasnailart."

Squiggly Black Lines

Start off with a neutral base coat, then get funky with dark and random squiggly lines.

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𝖛𝖆𝖑𝖔𝖗𝖎 𝖇𝖔𝖘𝖘 on Instagram: "Blood in water for Ciara💉♥️ . . . #gaudyoctopusnails #thenailroomslc #bloodynails #bloodnails"

Bloody Nails

This spine-tingling nail art will give you all the holiday feels this October. Drip polish down from your cuticles, and clean up your skin with a nail polish remover-soaked cotton swab. Done and done.

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Moody and Matte

Feel like sporting your artsy side? Paint an entire creepy scene onto your nails for a unique mani. Adding a matte top coat lets the designs be seen even better.

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Marble Print

This looks tough but is actually fairly easy. Begin by using black nail polish and a small brush dipped in acetone, draw on lines with the polish and then blur them by swirling with the brush.

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Paintbox on Instagram: "This graphic, black + white mani is a minimalist’s dream."

Art Dark-O

One small black line from top to bottom of your nail bed makes for an artsy addition to a skeleton-inspired Halloween look.

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Candy Corn

It’s easy and it’s a classic. Just a warning: You may have to resist the urge to nibble your fingers!

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Natalie Pavloski on Instagram: "Lewks for @_toandfrom_"

Shattered Nails

Give your fingers some sharp angles to give the illusion of jagged nails.

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Natalie Minerva on Instagram: "MATTE + GLOSS by @natalieminerva 💅🏼✨✌🏼to book an appointment with Natalie at NAIL SWAG #dtla please call/text 213-458-5989 or book online at NAILSWAG.COM #gelnails #nailart #nailswag"

Matte and Glossy Meet

Spice up the typical matte nail with a glossy French tip.

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Delia on Instagram: "It’s Summertime for the Monsters! I’m still feeling the Halloween manis with a summer spin, so what do the monsters do in the off season? Wear pastels and eat ice cream, of course! I was SO inspired by @superninjaflyingmonkey’s recent pastel pop art Frankenstein mani that I immediately started planning my own version. Since I do not have the fantastic Frankie eating ice plate Jolene used, I had to get creative. This mani was so fun to do! The down side is that I literally spent my entire day yesterday working on it! I’m quite proud that I managed to use a completely different color combo on of my 10 fingers! That probably had a lot to do with how time consuming it was! 😅Not to mention the tiny details in the ice cream and popsicles almost killed me! And a double layered reverse stamp, too. You better believe I’m keeping these on ALLLLL week, ha. I will try to get some help taking pics of my right hand later. Anyway I hope you guys like my Frankie and his bride pastel pop art mani! #frankensteinnails #popartnails #uberchicbeauty #BMS201 #essieblossomdandy #chinaglazelimeafterlime #chinaglazewhipitgood #fingerpaintshueknew #salonperfectbellini #sallyhansenpinkblink #summernails #halloweennails #everydayishalloween #reversestamping #advancedstamping"

Frankenstein Stitches

We’re already haunted by this funky, yet totally appropriate Frankenstein pop art.

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shoreditch nails on Instagram: "Loooving these Picasso inspired nails for @francescasaffari #shoreditchnails"

Picasso Line Art

Halloween doesn’t have to be all about zombies and mummies. Instead, try a fine-art approach that’s still wacky enough for the holiday.

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Olivia Gordon on Instagram: "#nightmarebeforechristmasnails #nightmarebeforechristmas"

Halloween Collage

Can’t decide which Halloween fave to go with? Use a different nail for each October 31 icon so no one misses out.

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Maddie Paulson on Instagram: "It’s a classic. And it’s my favorite. #jackskellingtonnails #mattenails #nailsarefriendsnotfood"

Jack Skellington

We love this black, white, and sparkly tribute to a Halloween classic.

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Disney Princesses

If you can’t decide which Disney princess you want to be this year, then just be all of them! This mani shows off their goofy side because even a Disney princess knows how to have fun too.

Halloween Nails You Can Buy

Dashing Diva

Dashing Diva Glow Potion Gloss Palette

Add some magic to your nails with a glow-in-the-dark set that features all your favorite Halloween motifs with a fun color palette.

Etsy

Black Bat Halloween Nails

Switch up your base color every time you add one (or multiple) of these stickers, and you'll get a different look every single time!

Etsy

Black Spider Web Press On Nails

The coolest part about these Halloween nails is the two-in-one finish they have. Even though they're monochromatic, the glossy and matte textures provide some unexpected contrast. (via LilyNailsArt/Etsy)

Etsy

Ghost Nails

The detail on these tips stand out against the simple base, and add a spooky touch to all your fall outfits!

Glamnetic

Lady Web

Give your spidery web nails a cute update with these press-on nails! The glitter will make them less spooky as you brew one of your famous Halloween cocktails.

Walmart

Salon Perfect Matte Checkered Cat Nails

Witchy nails are meant to be as chic as they are thrilling. Lucky for us, Salon Perfect understood the assignment when they created these cute matte checkered cat nails!

Walmart

Salon Perfect Black Moon Ombre Nails

Dressing up as a mysterious and sexy tarot reader for Halloween? Don't forget to add these black moon ombre nails to your costume.

Want more Halloween nail art and beauty inspiration? Be sure to check out our Pinterest page!

This post has been updated.

It's official: Blue Ivy looks totally grown up now — especially in her gorgeous gold gown at the Mufasa: The Lion Kingpremiere. It honestly feels like just yesterday that Beyoncé announced she was born, and now she's a star in her own right! She celebrated her Disney film debut with her family by her side on the red carpet (and everyone looking as gorgeous as ever).

While Jay-Z was one of the latest celebrities caught in the crosshairs of P. Diddy allegations, it didn't stop mom and dad from showing their unwavering support. The family put on a united front, smiling for the cameras and praising Blue's work on her latest Disney film, further proving that they're in this together. Here's everything we know!

Details about the Mufasa: The Lion King premiere

Beyoncé & Jay-Z Amazing Support Of Blue Ivy's Role In 'Mufasa'

Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

Blue Ivy stars in Mufasa: The Lion King as Kiara with Beyoncé voicing Nala again. The highly anticipated film will show Mufasa's origins from a young cub to the majestic king we've come to know, love, and mourn.

In this cute BTS clip, Beyoncé and Blue are initially shown in separate recording booths while the latter says, "Don't stare at me." It's a typical response all kids eventually give their parents, but it doesn't bother Beyoncé. She simply smiles and says, "I can't help it. You're just too beautiful girl." Still, she offers a bit of reassurance to Blue. "I'mma be right here closing my eyes."

Blue briefly talked about what it feels like to work on a movie by saying, "If I like told my younger self that I was in a movie, I'd like never believe myself."

The star couldn't help but tear up as she continued to watch Blue and said, "Give me a second. I'm still...just can't believe that's my baby." While sitting side by Blue, Beyoncé eventually turns to look at her to let her know she's "so proud of her." Even Rumi, Beyoncé and Jay-Z's youngest daughter, makes a quick appearance!

The Mufasa: The Lion King premiere occurred December 9 with Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and grandma Tina Knowles standing by Blue Ivy's side. They looked stunning on the red carpet as they wore coordinating outfits. Although the ladies seemed to be present and excited, Jay-Z temporarily looked distracted while all of them were standing together (via PEOPLE).

If we had to guess, it may have something to do with the recent allegations connecting he and P. Diddy weighing on his mind. After the accusation went public, Jay-Z penned his own public statement and shared it to Roc Nations' social channels. The most heartbreaking aspect of it is realizing his children will be able to see everything.

"My wife and I will have to sit our children down, one of whom is at the age where her friends will surely see the press and ask questions about the nature of these claims, and explain the cruelty and greed of people," he wrote (via X). Only time will tell how everything pans out, but we hope this doesn't overshadow Blue Ivy's success, nor do we want to see people vilify her or her siblings for alleged misdeeds of Jay-Z.

At the end of the day, we're so proud of Blue for letting her light shine bright despite everything else!

Follow us on Facebook to stay updated on more celebrity news.

My French manicure has overstayed it's welcome, but it's only because I've been so busy saving fall nail ideas to my Pinterest board for next season. I've officially checked out of summer because there's almost always a daily heat wave or run-in with a pesky mosquito that thinks it's discovered liquid courage within my legs' veins. I'm over it, and more than ready for fall!

Do you need some new autumnal options too? Good, then get in because we're going shopping! Get ready to take as many screenshots as your phone can handle because the fall nail ideas are going to make sure you're ready for cozy weather and spooky season.

Stylish Fall Nail Ideas

KISS

Kiss Voguish Fantasy Press-On Nails (Unbroken Love)

Whether you've got fashion week or pumpkin spice season on your mind, these nails have fall written all over them. Okay, they technically have 'love' and cute French chrome accents on them, but you get what I mean.

They're subtle enough to match fall's cozy vibes without fading into obscurity and it's the type of thing I love. I'd personally wear this nail idea as soon as fall starts to show my gratitude for my favorite season.

They serve as the perfect transition between two seasons so you could actually get them a few days before summer ends!

Jasmine Williams

Black And White Abstract Nails

Don't count abstract nails out because there's still a way to make them work for fall. Opt for a black and white color palette to serve as your base while letting the hand drawn designs do most of the talking.

This is still one of my favorite sets to date because it went with everything outfit I chose to wear. Athleisure? No problem. Cowgirl status? You bet!

Bellacures

French Metallic Nails

Love the first couple of fall nail ideas, but want to focus on a chrome French manicure? You've come to the right place!

Similar to the first idea, these nails can be transitional because they're ambiguous and aren't beholden to any rules. You can request these at your nail next appointment or you can wait to debut them after fall's been around for a month.

They'll go with plenty of the fall fashion ideas you're saving to your Pinterest board.

Target

Chillhouse Chill Tips Nail Art Press On Fake Nails (Gone Glamping)

I know you plan to go glamping this fall, so let your nails match nature with a pop of forest green! It's arguable whether you should wear press-on nails in the great outdoors, but no one said you had to do any of the heavy lifting.

If you plan to keep existing in your soft girl era, these press-on nails from Chillhouse are a cute fall nail idea to take on your overnight trip in the forest.

Paintlab

PAINTLAB Tortie Press-on Nails

If you don't buy these press-on nails, I surely will! I love anything tortoise shell — I'll run up the hill towards it every time. It's this close to replacing my love for leopard print, but that's TBD. The point is, these nails are another great fall staple to have.

The only fall rule I have is that varying shades of brown and black together create the best fall neutral. Once you pair it with a rounded almond nail shape, you have one of the best fall nail ideas out there.

I could tell you to stop scrolling because you don't need anymore options, but there's still so much more to explore!

Cozy Fall Nail Ideas

Target

Olive & June Press-on Oval Medium Fake Nails

If you're taking a break from nail art, focus on getting basic nail colors! You can still wear press-on nails this fall, but you'll look like a chic Editor from Runway magazine with these oxblood nails.

You'll be able to secure them with non-toxic and on-damaging glue which is a relief. No one said anything about cute fall styles and damaged nails!

Londontown

Londontown Posh Forever Metallic Nail Polish

Give yourself a gorgeous gel manicure at home with Londontown's metallic nail polish! Thanks to the amazing formula of proprietary kur care, you'll receive a nice dose of strength, moisture, and cute fall nails with each brush stroke.

Also, it's obvious that this nail polish is a must-have for anyone who's been counting waiting to order their drink from the Starbucks fall menu. As you can see, it looks gorgeous against a cream rib knit sweater! You can also pair it with neutral matching sets while you're at it.

Ella + Mila

Ella + Mila Bags Are Packed Blue Nail Polish

Jewel tones are so fall, so go for a true blue nail polish like this one by Ella + Mila. It doesn't contain any animal-derived ingredients which is great for anyone who prefers vegan beauty products. It also dries really quick and claims to be chip-resistant. That's a great feature if you use your hands a lot!

Bellacures

Peek-a-boo Black Nail Polish

Classic black nails will always be in. You can call these nails moody, but it doesn't change the fact they're going to be the most versatile idea you wear this fall.

Since there's no additional rhinestones or nail designs associated with this idea, you can actually recreate this at home. It can be your way of saving money so you don't have to choose between toilet paper and wine à la Shonda Rhimes.

Spooky Fall Nail Ideas

Glamnetic

Glamnetic Sandworm Press-On Nails

"Look! You've been to Saturn! I've been to Saturn! Whoa, sandworms, you hate ’em, right" is one of my favorite unhinged quotes from Beetlejuice that match these press-on nails perfectly.

Since we're finally getting a long-awaited sequel to the cult classic, it feels fitting that I include these beauties in the fall nail ideas roundup. They mix a bit of the sandworms' design with the classic Beetlejuice suit I love to see Michael Keaton wear so I think this means you just discovered your Halloween costume. 👀

Walmart

Salon Perfect Halloween Press-on Nails (Orange Pumpkin)

The first movie I think about when I see these nails is Scream. That's one of my favorite teen slasher films that I still watch to this day so I love how these designs seem to pay homage to Ghostface.

The pumpkins and orange crochet lines are an added touch that takes the edge off the 'killer' aspect which may make some people feel more comfortable looking at your nails. Then again, it doesn't really matter if other people don't get them.

Bellacures

Spooky Spider Nails

Undoubtedly someone doesn't have a fear of spiders and I applaud you for having the courage I don't. So, if you're trying to think of your next spooky Halloween costume, let these nails be your guiding light.

They're deliciously witchy and seem like you can conjure pumpkins to break out in a jubilated song.

The current season isn't over yet so check out 33 summer nails we love!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Bellacures

Ahhh…Paris Geller. Where does one even begin with the best Gilmore Girl whose name isn't actually Gilmore? The woman we all came to know and love. The purveyor of backhanded compliments, deadpan humor, the quickest wit one can imagine and an absolutely ungodly work ethic. The sole character of the series who I would 100% watch a spin-off of, and love every minute. Sure — she once said that everyone around her needed to be sterilized immediately. And that Rory’s boyfriend offers “nothing to women or the world in general.” And that she can “scare the stupid out of you. But the lazy runs deep.”

She may, in fact, be the only character whose absurdity warrants such unhinged comments, and I am so here for it. You may be reading this because you too believe that Paris Geller deserves way more praise than she receives. Or you hate her. Or perhaps you don’t even know who she is. Regardless, allow me to delight you with the many — shall I say — unique musings of my favorite Gilmore Girls character, and explain exactly why Paris was not only what the cult-classic show needed, but the feminist icon TV needed, too.

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rory & paris (2)

So let’s start from the beginning. Paris Geller (played by Liza Weil) joined the GG crew in Season 1, right as Rory Gilmore (the show’s sort-of protagonist) walked into Chilton Academy, a private school where Paris was attending, for her first day. A far cry from Rory’s relatively timid and soft-spoken personality, Paris tore up the screen with her high-strung personality and immediate rivalry with Rory (Rory did not feel the same), who Paris viewed as the only candidate who could possibly challenge her spot at the top of the class standing. As the year progresses, the two become friends, which of course Paris still highly questioned.

The rest of their high school experience is plagued with repeated ups and downs, from Paris’s parents’ highly publicized divorce to their joint student government campaign and, most notably, Paris’s C-SPAN meltdown, courtesy of a Harvard rejection fueled by what she can only assume to be wide-spread knowledge that she lost her virginity. Despite losing the Valedictorian slot to Rory (which Paris comes to terms with after finding out Salutatorians tend to be more successful), Paris walks across the graduation stage and accepts her diploma from the school’s headmaster, to which she iconically quips, “no hard feelings.”

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rory & paris (92)

Fast forward to Paris’s first year at Yale, a school she knew Rory was attending but had no intention of ever seeing again. Not to the surprise of Paris’s life coach, the two frenemies were placed together as suitemates, a pairing that ultimately served as a catalyst for lifelong friendship. Throughout college, Paris pursues pre-med and pre-law degrees, joins the Yale Daily News alongside Rory, dates an elderly professor (he passes away, leaving Paris to grieve), moves on with the editor of the Yale Daily News, Doyle McMaster, and potentially saves Rory from abandoning Yale forever by admitting to Lorelai that Rory is the only person who ever listened to her, challenged her and motivated her.

Paris then proceeds to become the editor of the Yale Daily News, a position in which her power-hungry tendencies took full-force, resulting in a forcible resignation, kick Rory out of their shared apartment, let Rory move back into their shared apartment (now with Doyle), be accepted to a slew of prestigious medical and law schools. She ultimately chose to attend med school and break up with Doyle, to which he refused, and tells Rory that they’re on their own but she can still do great things (Of course this doesn’t last, the two are meant to be best friends.)

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rory & paris (146)

Somehow this doesn't even scratch the surface of the character of Paris. As you can tell, Paris is a fiercely loyal, protective woman who fights for herself to no end. She (literally) doesn’t care what other people think (so long as they’re not within her immediate circle) and never stops pursuing her dreams, no matter how many times she probably should have. She is the epitome of feminism in modern television — perhaps taken to an extreme — and serves as a necessary counterweight to Rory’s floundering sense of self.

So long as she keeps her need for perfectionism in check, Paris has one of those few personality types whose wild ambition and outspokenness is directly beneficial to her success, a success that she, and only she, can define. Sure, she has an exaggerated sense of self-importance, but when balanced by Rory’s soft-but-straightforward approach, Paris can quickly reset, reevaluate and move forward.

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rory & paris (175)

That's the thing with Paris — she’s always moving forward. She doesn't get into Harvard? Tough. She takes a few days to wallow before considering her other options: Yale, Columbia and Princeton. She doesn’t know whether to choose med school or law school, so she takes stock of her bearings, reflects on her past dreams, and makes a clear, concise decision that she moves forward with.

Her brutally honest nature (both internally and externally) is exactly why Paris works. She’s generous when needed, comfortable with giving tough (and oftentimes tougher) love, is able to express vulnerability with the people she loves, doesn’t allow outside influences to affect her path and never let’s someone (especially a man) tell her she’s less than (*cough, cough*—Rory). For an early 2000s show, she showed women that there is power in education. There’s power in stepping away from a caretaker role. There’s power in expressing your opinion, no matter your age.

Image via WB

There’s no doubt in my mind that she’s inspired countless women over the years — after all, she’s inspired me! Even though she’s had her controversial moments, she’s always been a cheering voice for women, even if it’s behind her resting grimace. For these reasons, and so many more, I am hereby deeming Paris Geller the best of Gilmore Girls — the heroine, perhaps, and a feminist icon to all.

What's your take on Paris Geller? Let us know in the comments, and sign up for our email newsletter for more pop culture musings!

Header image via Netflix, Warner Bros

This post has been updated.

Gilmore Girlstakes up more of my brain space than I'd care to admit. The show is undeniably great. I mean, there's a reason it's become an absolute cultural phenomenon! The banter is witty and memorable, the Stars Hollow, Connecticut setting is warm and friendly, and the character dynamics feel natural and comforting. All of these elements combined create the perfect comfort show thatI personally rewatch again and again. However, despite having an overall positive opinion of the show, there is one bone I have to pick with it. This grievance makes my blood boil and keeps me tossing and turning at night.

While I can't pose my all-too-important question to the creators of the show, I will ask it to you, reader: Why in the world was Lane Kim's storyline such a travesty? Considering the show is not shy about uplifting and celebrating Rory (despite her many mistakes) it feels especially unfair how short of a stick Lane (played by Keiko Agena) truly got. Here are my unfiltered thoughts on the subject.

Lane deserved better after a life of seeking independence

Photo via WBLane Kim's Treatment On "Gilmore Girls" Is The Ultimate TV Tragedy

Throughout Lane's formative teenage years, she was forced to hide her true identity and interests in order to appease her mother. From hiding CDs in her floorboards and changing her clothes when she got to school, Lane was under a lot of pressure to keep her mom happy, while still trying to figure out who she was. Her mother even kicked her out after finding out about her "secret life," causing Lane to have to move into Rory's dorm. Rory, on the other hand, had a mother who supported her every dream and who she could be fully herself with.

I'm not sure why only one of these two besties got to live out their dreams, but if it did have to play out this way, it should have been Lane Kim. Given how difficult her upbringing was, couldn't the show have given her a win by having *her* be the one who gets to follow her dreams?

Lane's love life is lackluster

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Once again, the show propped up Rory and gave her not one, not two, but three love interests. Whether or not you love all three of them, we can all admit that each boyfriend was compatible with Rory in their own way, and helped her learn and grow. Lane, however, did not get this. Her first boyfriend, Dave, is great. He's kind and sweet and understanding of her family situation, but the show breaks them up because they can't handle being long-distance. (Technically, we know actor Adam Brody had to leave for The O.C. but where is the justice??!)

After Dave, it all goes downhill from there for poor Lane. She ends up with Zack, who isn't bad but isn't great. And, as soon as Lane is finally getting to pursue her passion by going on tour with her band, she finds out she and Zack are pregnant. Considering how long Lane dreamed of getting to be her authentic herself and openly express her interests, it feels cruel that this twist of fate took it away from her at this exact moment.

Lane made the best of her situation

Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix

Despite Rory having almost every opportunity available to her, we find out in Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life that she is making bad decisions (like, er, sleeping with an engaged man) and is struggling to find her way. Lane, on the other hand, has made the best out of the cards she's been dealt. She's still married to Zack, is taking care of her twins, and has even kept music in her life by joining a band. I can't help but think if Lane can forge ahead despite all of her unfortunate circumstances, how fantastic could her life have been if the writers had served her just a little bit more good fortune?

Lane could have served as the role model so many girls needed

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Lane's experience mirrors many Asian-American girls' lives. She had a strict upbringing and struggled to strike a balance between fitting in with her American peers and forming her own identity, while still trying to manage her mother's expectations of who she should be. As an Asian-American, Lane's experiences mirrored many of my own, and, at a time when there was such little Asian representation, this was extremely impactful.

With the lack of representation at the time, it was even more important that Lane was dealt an ending that she and her viewers could be proud of. Instead of turning her into somewhat of a cautionary tale, her story could have been utilized to empower an audience of individuals who saw themselves in her. For that reason, Lane's treatment on Gilmore Girls will never quite sit right with me.

What do you think about Lane Kim's storyline on Gilmore Girls? Let us know in the comments and check out our guide to Where Is The Gilmore Girls Cast Now? to keep up with your favorite Stars Hollow residents (even if they're not in Stars Hollow anymore).

Lead image via Warner Bros

This post has been updated.