Let’s keep it real: if there’s one nail color that’s absolutely everywhere right now—it’s OPI’s Big Apple Red. Yep, the candy apple red that had a chokehold on salon shelves back in 1999 is fully back. And before you say, “wait, red nails are nothing new,” let’s talk about why this red is different. Why is it having a full-blown viral moment? And why your next mani appointment probably already has it on the table.
Kendall Jenner Made It Happen
We’ve seen plenty of celeb nail inspo over the years, but when Kendall Jenner posted a video on Instagram casually doing her brows—with a bright red manicure front and center—it wasn’t just another aesthetic moment. It was a signal.
Her nail artist Zola Ganzorigt confirmed on IG that the shade in question was OPI’s Big Apple Red, and the internet? Instantly obsessed. Google searches for the polish exploded by 5,000% after Kendall’s post. That’s not hype. That’s power.
Let’s be honest—when someone like Kendall, who’s known for minimalist trends and clean-girl vibes, gives a loud red her seal of approval, it changes the whole mood. Suddenly this throwback polish isn’t just retro—it’s fashion. It’s cool. It’s what’s next.
A Red That Doesn’t Miss
As you can see on OPI’s Instagram, this red is truly timeless—and not gonna lie, I felt an instant mood boost just looking at it. Big Apple Red hits that perfect balance: bold but not too dark, cool-toned but never harsh.
It’s bright enough to feel fun but still works with literally everything. Poolside? Absolutely. Rooftop drinks? For sure. That last-minute family dinner? Still a win. It’s giving hot girl summer, but make it classic. Nail artists love it because it works on every skin tone. Influencers love it because it makes every photo pop.
Yes, the Red Nail Theory Exists—but We’re Not Overhyping It
Okay, we have to mention it. TikTok’s “red nail theory” definitely helped put red nails back in the spotlight. The theory says red polish makes people lowkey more attracted to you.
It pairs perfectly with this OPI polish—it’s giving confidence, glam, and just the right amount of nostalgia. We’ve got the aesthetic proof lined up on our Instagram, and you have to see these pics.
But let’s be clear: Big Apple Red didn’t ride red nail theory’s coattails. It led the charge. While everyone else was going viral with random red polishes, OPI already had the one in its archive. And it came back swinging—with a glossy finish, Kendall’s stamp, and a Gen Z glow-up.
Not Just Big Apple—Cherry Red Nails Are Huge in 2025
According to Pinterest’s trend predictions, cherry red is the color of 2025. Not just for nails, but in beauty, fashion, and even food content (yes, cherry smoothies are trending too). The cherry-coded aesthetic is everywhere, and it makes sense—this shade is juicy and perfect for girlies who love their red a little deeper.
TPI’s Red Polish Recs: Bright & Cherry-Picked
You already know we ride hard for red polish, so of course we’ve got TPI’s top picks to match the mood. If you’re into bright, glossy reds like Big Apple Red, here are a few more that deliver that same bold summer energy:
- Essie Geranium—a punchy, orange-toned red that’s basically screaming sunshine
- Olive & June C-H-R-I-S-T-I-N-E—loud, classic red with major cool-girl vibes
- Static Nails Pop Red—the gloss is unreal, and it looks expensive on everyone.
More of a cherry-coded girlie? These deeper reds bring that juicy, Pinterest-core drama.
- Gucci Goldie Red—rich, luxe, and total cherry bomb material
- Sundays No. 18—dark cherry red with a jelly-like finish that eats under sunlight
- JINsoon Coquette—a moody red with just enough flirt in the undertone
👉 We pulled together some red nail designs to keep you on trend this summer—glossy sets, heart accents, and modern French tips included.
And of course, we shared our fave red mani looks on TPI’s NailTok, so we’ve got you. Tap through our red nails edit to see the slay.
No red polish is making waves like OPI’s Big Apple Red this summer. It’s bold, classic, and officially the shade. Try it out, and don’t forget to tag us—we want to see your red nail era in full effect. 💅❤️🔥
