Ask Mary Lou

Each month, Mary Lou answers (and we post!) a fashion question from one of our site visitors. If you have something you want to know to help pull together your wardrobe with style and confidence, ask away!

We also announce that the monthly question and answer is available to read in our free Dressing Well "Tip of the Month!" You may want to subscribe if you haven't already done so.

Bookmark this page and return back soon to see if your question has been answered or check our question archives!

For September 2007:

Q: What color nail polish is appropriate for the office? I tend to prefer dark shades, like a classic red. However, I recently found a very dark color that I love, but I wonder if it's ok? It's from OPI and it's called Lincoln Park After Dark (it's referred to as a midnight purple.) I would even say it comes out little darker (closer to black) than how it seems in this picture. Is this ok?

A: Overly dark nail polish shades are a distraction in most work places. The OPI color Lincoln Park After Dark falls into this category. Save this color for vacation, special events and date nights! We advise our corporate clients to choose pale neutral shades that are more in keeping with a professional look. French manicures are also work well in a corporate environment. If you like darker colors look for a soft red or soft brown. Your nail color should be a part of your overall polished look and not the thing that stands out in a flashy manner.