21 Best Nail Color Ideas for Every Season : Trends and Tips for All Skin Tones

Anna 26 August 2024Last Updated: 27 August 2024

0 168 19 minutes read

When it comes to nail color ideas, the options are endless. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement with vibrant hues or prefer a subtle, minimalist approach, there’s something for everyone. But how do you choose the perfect shade for each season, or match it to your skin tone? Let’s explore the most exciting nail color ideas and beyond, with insights on how to recreate these stunning looks at home.

Bold Autumn Vibes

This bold design perfectly captures the essence of fall with its deep orange and crisp white accents. The matte finish gives a sophisticated touch to the overall look, making it ideal for anyone looking to embrace the autumn spirit. The nail art showcases a clean, minimal wave on the ring finger, adding a playful element without overwhelming the design. This color combination and design would pop beautifully against tan skin, offering a warm contrast that’s both stylish and seasonally appropriate. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking nail color ideas for fall that are simple yet striking.

21 Best Nail Color Ideas for Every Season : Trends and Tips for All Skin Tones — Photo credit by: https://www.instagram.com/p/C602gjXtqiz/

Consumables List:

Matte Orange Polish: OPI Matte Orange You Fantastic! – A deep matte finish that’s perfect for fall.
Matte White Polish: Essie Blanc – A classic matte white that pairs well with any color.
Detail Brush: Pueen Nail Art Brush Set – Essential for creating the precise wave design.

Matte Top Coat: Sally Hansen Big Matte Top Coat – To maintain the matte finish throughout wear.

DIY Instructions:

Prep your nails by shaping and applying a base coat to protect the nail bed.

Apply two coats of matte orange polish on all nails except the ring finger, which will get the matte white polish.
Using the detail brush, create a wave design on the ring finger with the matte orange polish, allowing it to dry completely between layers.
Seal the design with a matte top coat to ensure longevity and enhance the matte effect.

Elegant Pink Glam

This elegant nail design combines the softness of a nude pink base with delicate gold and burgundy swirls, creating a chic and refined look. The almond shape elongates the fingers, while the subtle glitter adds just enough sparkle to catch the eye without being overpowering. This design is perfect for those who favor nail color ideas for spring, offering a fresh and airy feel that complements the blossoming season. It’s also a fantastic choice for those with brown skin as it highlights the richness of the skin tone while adding a touch of elegance.

Consumables List:

Nude Pink Polish: Zoya Ava – A soft nude pink that serves as the perfect base.

Burgundy Polish: OPI Got the Blues for Red – Adds a deep, rich contrast to the delicate pink.
Gold Glitter Polish: China Glaze Glitter Me This – For a subtle sparkle.
Fine Liner Brush: Beauty Secrets Nail Art Brushes – Ideal for creating precise swirls and lines.

Glossy Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat – To give a glossy, durable finish.

DIY Instructions:

Start with clean, shaped nails and apply a base coat.

Apply two coats of nude pink polish to all nails, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
Use a fine liner brush to paint swirls on each nail with the burgundy polish, then layer with gold glitter for added dimension.
Finish with a glossy top coat to protect your design and add shine.

Colorful Chic Combo

For a vibrant twist, this design pairs bold teal and hot pink shades with a touch of metallic silver detailing, making it perfect for those who want to stand out. The playful color contrast between the teal and pink creates a fun and youthful vibe, making it an excellent choice for nail color ideas for summer. The use of silver detailing adds a contemporary edge, ensuring your nails are not just colorful but also stylishly modern.

Consumables List:

Teal Polish: Essie Garden Variety – A bright teal perfect for a summer look.

Hot Pink Polish: Sally Hansen Pink Punk – A vivid hot pink that screams fun.
Silver Nail Tape: Kiss Nail Art Striping Tape – For precise, metallic detailing.
Base Coat: CND Stickey Base Coat – To ensure your polish adheres smoothly and lasts longer.

Top Coat: OPI Top Coat – To add shine and protect your nail art.

DIY Instructions:

Prep your nails with a base coat to protect and smooth the nail surface.

Apply two coats of teal polish on the thumb and middle finger, and hot pink on the index and pinky finger.
Place silver nail tape in a wavy pattern across the accent nail, trimming to fit and pressing firmly to adhere.
Finish with a top coat to seal in the design and add a high-gloss finish.

Sunshine Yellow Elegance

The sunshine yellow paired with white and silver accents offers a refreshing take on nail color ideas for spring. The almond shape nails are adorned with a mix of solid and marble patterns, showcasing a unique blend of simplicity and creativity. The silver foil accents add a hint of luxury, making these nails perfect for a sophisticated springtime look. This design works particularly well for those with lighter skin tones, providing a soft, sunny contrast that’s both flattering and eye-catching.

Consumables List:

Sunshine Yellow Polish: Zoya Darcy – A bright yellow with a cream finish.

White Marble Polish: China Glaze White on White – For creating the marble effect.
Silver Foil: Mia Secret Silver Foil – Adds a luxurious touch to the design.
Marble Nail Brush: Winstonia Marble Nail Brush – Perfect for creating the marble pattern.

Top Coat: Essie Good to Go Top Coat – Ensures a smooth, glossy finish.

DIY Instructions:

Apply a base coat to your clean, shaped nails.

Paint all nails with the sunshine yellow polish, leaving an accent nail for the marble effect.
Create the marble effect on the accent nail using the white polish and a marble nail brush, then apply silver foil accents while the polish is still tacky.
Seal the design with a top coat to protect your artwork and add a glossy finish.

Sunny Yellow Marble with Silver Accents

This vibrant nail design is a celebration of sunny, cheerful hues combined with a touch of elegance. The base color is a soft yellow, providing a warm, uplifting foundation that is perfect for spring and summer seasons. The accent nails feature a stunning marble effect, blending shades of yellow and white for a fluid, artistic appearance. What truly elevates this design are the silver foil accents, which add a hint of luxury and contrast beautifully against the soft yellow base. This nail design is ideal for those looking for nail color ideas for summer that are both bright and sophisticated. It works exceptionally well for lighter skin tones, bringing a fresh, radiant look to the nails.

Consumables List:

Soft Yellow Nail Polish: OPI Sun, Sea, and Sand in My Pants – A gentle yellow shade perfect for a cheerful base.

White Nail Polish: Essie Blanc – Used for creating the marble effect.
Silver Foil: Born Pretty Silver Foil Flakes – Adds a luxurious touch to the design.
Marble Nail Brush: Beetles Nail Art Brush Set – Essential for achieving the marble effect.

Glossy Top Coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat – To provide a shiny, long-lasting finish.

DIY Instructions:

Start by prepping your nails with a base coat to protect and smooth the nail surface.

Apply two coats of soft yellow polish to all nails, allowing each coat to dry completely for a smooth finish.
For the accent nails, use a marble nail brush dipped in white polish to create swirling patterns over the yellow base. While the polish is still wet, gently press silver foil flakes onto the design to add dimension and sparkle.
Finish with a glossy top coat to seal in your design, ensuring it remains vibrant and intact for longer wear.

Subtle Elegance in Neutrals

This nail design is the epitome of understated elegance, featuring a neutral palette that perfectly complements any outfit or occasion. The glossy, soft beige base color provides a clean canvas that is accentuated by delicate white marbling on select nails. The marbling effect adds a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the design, making it a versatile choice for both casual and formal settings. The addition of a tiny pearl embellishment near the cuticle line introduces a subtle hint of luxury, making this a refined option among nail color ideas for those who prefer minimalism with a twist.

Consumables List:

Beige Nail Polish: OPI Samoan Sand – A versatile nude shade that complements all skin tones.

White Marble Effect Polish: Essie Blanc – Used to create the subtle marble accents.
Pearl Nail Stickers: KISS Pearl Nail Art – Small pearls to add an elegant touch.
Glossy Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat – For a high-shine finish that lasts.

DIY Instructions:

Prepare your nails by shaping them and applying a base coat to protect them.
Apply two coats of beige polish to all nails, allowing each coat to dry completely.

Use a fine brush dipped in white polish to create marbling effects on a few accent nails. Add a small pearl embellishment near the cuticle line for added elegance.
Seal everything with a glossy top coat to protect your design and give it a beautiful shine.

Rich Burgundy Floral Accents

This design is a beautiful blend of rich burgundy and soft nude, making it a perfect pick for nail color ideas fall. The glossy burgundy nails are vibrant and bold, while the accent nails showcase delicate floral patterns on a nude base. The floral accents in deep red and black add a layer of depth and intrigue, making this look both feminine and striking. The combination of solid colors and intricate floral art creates a balanced design that can be both edgy and elegant, making it versatile for various occasions.

Consumables List:

Burgundy Nail Polish: Sally Hansen Red Zin – A deep, rich color that brings warmth to the design.
Nude Base Polish: Zoya Avery – A subtle, natural base for the floral accents.

Nail Art Brush: Beetles Nail Art Brush Set – Essential for creating detailed floral patterns.
Floral Nail Stickers: Whats Up Nails Floral Nail Art Stickers – To easily add intricate floral designs.
Glossy Top Coat: Revlon Extra Life No Chip Top Coat – To protect and enhance the nail art.

DIY Instructions:

Start by prepping your nails with a base coat.
Apply two coats of burgundy polish to all nails except the accent nails, which will be painted with nude polish.

Use a nail art brush to create floral patterns with the burgundy and black polish on the accent nails. Alternatively, use floral nail stickers for a quicker application.
Finish with a glossy top coat to seal and protect your design.

Olive Green and Gold Leaf Art

This nail design combines earthy olive green with shimmering gold leaf, creating a look that’s both natural and luxurious. The nude base serves as a neutral backdrop, allowing the olive green accents and black line art to stand out beautifully. The addition of gold leaf fragments adds a touch of glamour, making this design perfect for those seeking nail color ideas for winter that are sophisticated yet understated. The sharp contrast between the earthy tones and the metallic accents ensures this design will turn heads without being too overpowering.

Consumables List:

Nude Nail Polish: Essie Ballet Slippers – A classic nude that serves as a great base.
Olive Green Polish: OPI Olive for Green – Adds a rich, earthy element to the design.

Gold Leaf Foil: Nail Art Gold Foil Flakes by Kalolary – For a metallic shimmer that catches the light.
Nail Art Brush: Modelones Nail Art Brushes – For precise application of the gold leaf and line art.
Matte Top Coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Matte Top Coat – To add a modern, matte finish.

DIY Instructions:

Apply a base coat to your nails to protect them from staining.
Paint the nails with a nude polish as the base color.

Use an olive green polish and a fine nail art brush to create leafy accents and geometric shapes on the nails.
Apply gold leaf with a thin brush, gently pressing it onto the nail where desired.
Finish with a matte top coat to seal in the design and give it a contemporary feel.

Chic Black and Leopard Contrast

This edgy nail design uses a classic black polish combined with a playful leopard print accent, perfect for those looking for nail color ideas that are bold and trendy. The solid black nails exude sophistication, while the leopard print on the accent nails adds a fun, fashion-forward twist. The glossy finish enhances the overall look, making the colors pop and the design stand out. This combination is ideal for a night out or any event where you want to make a statement with your manicure.

Consumables List:

Black Nail Polish: OPI Black Onyx – A deep, glossy black for a dramatic effect.

Nude Base Polish: Essie Topless & Barefoot – A nude shade that allows the leopard print to stand out.
Leopard Print Stencil: Whats Up Nails Animal Print Stencils – To create precise leopard spots.
Fine Detail Brush: Makartt Nail Art Brush Set – For adding detailed elements to the leopard print.

Glossy Top Coat: Gelish Top It Off – To give a shiny finish and ensure the design lasts.

DIY Instructions:

Start with a base coat to protect your nails.

Apply black polish on all nails except for the ring and index fingers, which will be painted with the nude polish.
Use a leopard print stencil to create the pattern on the accent nails, filling in with black polish.
Finish with a glossy top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Modern Geometric in Cool Tones

This modern nail design features a sleek black base with geometric accents in clear polish, creating a sophisticated and minimalistic look. The sharp lines and contrasting textures offer a fresh take on nail color ideas for dark skin, as the black polish enhances the depth and richness of darker skin tones while the geometric patterns add a contemporary twist. The design is perfect for those who appreciate a clean aesthetic but still want something unique and eye-catching.

Consumables List:

Black Nail Polish: Zoya Willa – A jet-black polish with a high-gloss finish.

Clear Nail Polish: Seche Clear Crystal Clear Base Coat – For creating geometric accents.
Nail Striping Tape: Twinkled T Striping Tape – To outline the geometric shapes precisely.
Precision Nail Brush: Winstonia Nail Art Brushes – For detailed work on the geometric lines.

Matte Top Coat: Orly Matte Top – To provide a modern, matte finish.

DIY Instructions:

Apply a base coat to all nails.

Paint your nails with black polish, applying two coats for full coverage.
Use nail striping tape to outline geometric shapes, then fill in with clear polish to create contrast.
Seal the design with a matte top coat for a contemporary, stylish finish.

Yellow Sunshine with Crystallized Accent

This nail design radiates positivity with its bright yellow base, reminiscent of warm summer days. The oval shape of the nails elongates the fingers, creating an elegant silhouette. What truly sets this design apart is the crystallized accent nail, featuring a stunning 3D mosaic effect that reflects light beautifully. This unique accent catches the eye and adds a glamorous touch, perfect for anyone looking to make a bold statement. This look is ideal for those searching for nail color ideas for summer that combine vibrancy with luxury.

Consumables List:

Yellow Nail Polish: OPI Sun, Sea, and Sand in My Pants – A bright and cheerful yellow shade.

3D Crystal Mosaic Nail Art: Born Pretty Diamond Nail Decorations – For creating the dazzling mosaic accent.
Nail Glue: IBD Brush-On Nail Glue – To securely attach the crystal accents.
Glossy Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat – For a shiny, long-lasting finish.

DIY Instructions:

Prepare your nails by shaping them and applying a base coat to protect them.
Apply two coats of yellow polish to all nails except the accent nail.

Apply nail glue to the accent nail and carefully place each crystal to create a mosaic effect. Press gently to secure.
Seal with a glossy top coat to protect your design and enhance shine.

Dreamy Pink Marbled Clouds

This nail design captures a dreamy aesthetic with its soft pink marbled effect. The short, rounded nails provide a natural look that’s both chic and practical. The marbling technique, blending different shades of pink, creates a cloud-like appearance that is whimsical and delicate. This design is perfect for those seeking simple nail color ideas that still offer a unique twist. The soft hues and playful patterns make it an ideal choice for spring or summer, adding a subtle pop of color without being too bold.

Consumables List:

Light Pink Nail Polish: Essie Ballet Slippers – A soft, pale pink base color.
Darker Pink Nail Polish: OPI Pink Flamenco – For creating the marbled effect.

Nail Art Sponge: Pueen Nail Art Sponges – To blend the colors seamlessly.
Glossy Top Coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat – To protect the design and add shine.

DIY Instructions:

Apply a base coat to all nails to protect the nail surface.
Paint a base layer with light pink polish and let it dry completely.
Dab darker pink polish onto the nails using a sponge to create a marbled effect. Blend gently for a soft transition between colors.

Finish with a glossy top coat to seal in the design and add a glassy finish.

Frosted Blue Marble with Silver Detailing

This frosted blue nail design combines cool tones with a chic marble effect. The longer almond-shaped nails provide an elegant canvas for the intricate marble detailing, which mixes shades of blue and gray for a sophisticated look. The silver foil accents scattered throughout the marble design add a touch of glam, making this a stunning option for winter or any occasion that calls for a cooler color palette. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for nail color ideas winter that are both unique and stylish.

Consumables List:

Frosted Blue Nail Polish: Zoya Blu – A soft, frosty blue perfect for a wintery look.
Gray Marble Polish: OPI I Cannoli Wear OPI – For creating the marble effect.
Silver Foil: Makartt Nail Art Foil Set – Adds a metallic accent to the design.

Marble Nail Brush: Modelones Nail Art Brushes – For precise marble detailing.
Matte Top Coat: Orly Matte Top – To give the design a frosted, matte finish.

DIY Instructions:

Prep nails with a base coat to protect the natural nails.
Apply a frosted blue base color to all nails and let dry.
Use a marble brush to create a marble effect with the gray polish, adding small pieces of silver foil for added texture.

Seal with a matte top coat to complete the frosted effect and protect the design.

Deep Blue Shine with Glitter Accent

This bold nail design features a rich, deep blue color that’s perfect for those who love a classic yet striking look. The short, square nails are both practical and stylish, offering a clean-cut appearance. The glitter accent nail adds a playful twist, catching the light and drawing attention without overpowering the design. This combination makes it an excellent choice for nail color ideas for dark skin or anyone who wants a versatile look that can transition from day to night.

Consumables List:

Deep Blue Nail Polish: Essie Aruba Blue – A vibrant, metallic blue for the main color.
Blue Glitter Nail Polish: China Glaze Moonlight the Night – Adds sparkle to the accent nail.
Base Coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat – To protect the nails and extend polish wear.
Top Coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat – For a glossy, durable finish.

DIY Instructions:

Start with a base coat to protect your nails and enhance the polish adherence.
Apply two coats of deep blue polish to all nails, allowing each coat to dry fully.
Use the glitter polish on one accent nail for added sparkle.
Finish with a top coat to seal in the color and provide a glossy, protective layer.

Mystical Purple Ombre Glitter

This enchanting nail design uses a gradient of purple glitter to create an ombre effect that is both magical and captivating. The transition from a sheer white base to a dense purple glitter at the tips mimics the twilight sky, making it a great choice for those looking for nail color ideas pink and purple tones. The almond shape adds elegance and complements the ethereal color palette. This design is perfect for evening events or any time you want your nails to shimmer with a mystical glow.

Consumables List:

Sheer White Nail Polish: OPI Bubble Bath – A translucent white to start the ombre effect.
Purple Glitter Polish: China Glaze Don’t Be Shallow – A chunky purple glitter for the ombre.
Gradient Sponge: Beetles Ombre Nail Brush & Sponge Set – For blending colors seamlessly.
Top Coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat – To lock in the design and add shine.

DIY Instructions:

Prepare nails with a base coat to protect them from staining.
Apply sheer white polish as a base, and let it dry completely.
Using a sponge, dab the purple glitter polish starting from the tips and gradually moving down for a gradient effect.
Seal with a top coat to smooth out the texture and add a glossy finish.

Glamorous Burgundy with Jewels and Glitter

This nail design exudes luxury with its rich burgundy base and sophisticated accents. The glossy finish on the burgundy nails provides a deep, lustrous appearance, while the ring finger stands out with a stunning arrangement of jewels and pearls. The glittery accent nail adds a playful yet elegant touch, making this design perfect for a night out or a special occasion. This look is ideal for those seeking nail color ideas that are bold yet refined.

Consumables List:

Burgundy Nail Polish: OPI Malaga Wine – A deep burgundy shade perfect for a sophisticated look.
Jewel Nail Decorations: Born Pretty Nail Art Rhinestones – A mix of jewels and pearls for a luxurious accent.
Gold Glitter Polish: China Glaze Golden Enchantment – Adds a sparkling effect to the accent nail.
Nail Glue: Kiss Precision Nail Glue – To securely attach the jewel decorations.
Glossy Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat – To ensure a high-shine finish and protect the design.

DIY Instructions:

Prep your nails with a base coat to protect them.
Apply two coats of burgundy polish to all nails except for the accent nails.
Decorate the accent nail with jewels and pearls using nail glue. Use a fine brush to apply gold glitter to another accent nail.
Finish with a glossy top coat to seal and protect the design.

Modern Speckled Gray with Gold Foil

This modern nail design combines a chic speckled gray with bold gold foil accents for a contemporary look. The speckled gray base adds texture and interest, while the shiny black accent nail provides a striking contrast. The gold foil details bring a touch of luxury and are perfect for anyone looking for nail color ideas that are edgy yet stylish. This design is versatile, suitable for both casual and formal settings.

Consumables List:

Speckled Gray Nail Polish: Zoya Dove – A light gray with a speckled effect.
Black Nail Polish: Essie Licorice – A classic black for accent nails.
Gold Foil Nail Stickers: Makartt Gold Nail Foil Stickers – For adding bold gold accents.
Matte Top Coat: Orly Matte Top – To finish the gray nails with a modern, matte effect.

DIY Instructions:

Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
Apply two coats of speckled gray polish to most nails, reserving one for black polish.
Apply black polish to the accent nail and use gold foil stickers on two nails for added texture and shine.
Finish with a matte top coat on the gray nails and a glossy top coat on the black nail to create contrast.

Vibrant Purple High Gloss

This bold nail design features a rich, vibrant purple shade that’s perfect for making a statement. The high gloss finish adds depth to the color, making it appear even more striking. The elongated almond shape of the nails adds elegance and elongates the fingers, making this look ideal for those who want nail color ideas that are both bold and sophisticated. This design is perfect for evening events or any occasion where you want your nails to be the focal point.

Consumables List:

Vibrant Purple Nail Polish: OPI Do You Lilac It? – A deep, vibrant purple with a high-shine finish.
Base Coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat – To protect the nails and extend the polish wear.
Glossy Top Coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat – To enhance the shine and durability of the polish.

DIY Instructions:

Apply a base coat to prepare your nails.
Apply two coats of purple polish for full coverage, allowing each coat to dry completely.
Finish with a glossy top coat to ensure a high-shine finish and protect the color.

Subtle French Outline with Nude Base

This design offers a modern twist on the classic French manicure with a subtle outline on a nude base. The soft square shape of the nails complements the minimalistic design, while the glossy finish adds a touch of sophistication. The thin outline provides just enough detail to make the nails stand out without being too bold, making this look perfect for everyday wear or for those seeking nail color ideas that are understated yet chic.

Consumables List:

Nude Nail Polish: Essie Ballet Slippers – A soft nude that serves as a perfect base.
Fine Detail Brush: Beetles Nail Art Brush Set – For creating the thin French outline.
Glossy Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat – To add a shiny finish and protect the design.

DIY Instructions:

Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
Paint two coats of nude polish on all nails, allowing them to dry completely.
Use a fine detail brush dipped in white polish to create a thin outline along the edge of each nail.
Finish with a glossy top coat to seal and protect the design.

Artistic Multi-Tone with Graphic Prints

This artistic nail design is a playful mix of colors and prints, featuring a unique combination of green, purple, and nude tones. The graphic prints on the accent nails add a creative touch, making this design perfect for those who love to experiment with their nails. This look is ideal for those searching for nail color ideas that are bold, artistic, and unique, suitable for casual outings and making a statement.

Consumables List:

Green Nail Polish: Zoya Ireland – A soft, muted green for a chic base.
Purple Nail Polish: OPI Lincoln Park After Dark – A deep purple for contrast.
Nude Nail Polish: Essie Topless & Barefoot – A neutral base for the graphic prints.
Graphic Nail Stickers: Whats Up Nails Graphic Nail Stickers – For adding artistic elements.
Glossy Top Coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat – To enhance the shine and durability of the design.

DIY Instructions:

Prepare your nails with a base coat to protect them.
Apply two coats of each polish to create a multi-tone effect, allowing each coat to dry fully.
Add graphic stickers to the accent nails for a creative touch.
Finish with a glossy top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Classic Red Elegance with Embellishments

This timeless nail design showcases a classic red color, perfect for any occasion where elegance is required. The almond shape of the nails adds a refined touch, while the small crystal embellishments on a few accent nails provide a hint of sparkle. This design is perfect for anyone looking for nail color ideas that are classic yet modern, suitable for both formal events and everyday wear.

Consumables List:

Red Nail Polish: Essie Russian Roulette – A classic red with a glossy finish.
Crystal Nail Embellishments: Swarovski Crystal Nail Art – For adding a touch of sparkle to the design.
Nail Glue: Kiss Precision Nail Glue – To securely attach the crystal embellishments.
Glossy Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat – To add shine and protect the design.

DIY Instructions:

Start with a base coat to protect your nails and enhance polish adherence.
Apply two coats of red polish for a rich, even color.
Attach crystal embellishments to accent nails using nail glue for added elegance.
Finish with a glossy top coat to seal and protect the design.