As the owner of one of the most closely-watched wardrobes in Hollywood, Dakota Johnson’s outfits are constantly being parsed and dissected. Her ’90s supermodel-inspired fringe for her recent trip to London had the whole office talking. But what about the tomato-red, almond-shaped mani she’s apparently obsessed with at the moment? Giorgia Cappella, head of product and education at The GelBottle, has some thoughts on Johnson’s current preferred manicure, which she’s worn for several high-profile events in a row: the 2026 MTV Awards, the New York premiere of her new film , and her appearance.
“She’s someone who doesn’t take herself too seriously,” says Cappella. “The touch of risqué-ness in the outfit, paired with the glossy red almond nail, shows confidence and a bit of mischief. She’s comfortable being a little provocative, but with a wink.” That will certainly track for fans familiar with Johnson’s deadpan humour. (See her Open Door video.)
Wearing a pointy scarlet nail to a screening of her upcoming psychological thriller feels similarly tongue in cheek. But it’s a canny aesthetic choice, too, Cappella notes: “Oval and almond [nail shapes] are the most flattering on almost everyone because they taper, which makes fingers look longer and slimmer. Almond is the slightly sharper, more elegant version, which is why it’s great for the red carpet.” She adds that stiletto, coffin, and ballerina nails all require more length, making them a perfect statement nail.
Cappella’s personal autumnal pick is short, round nails. “It’s the shape I’m seeing on the most stylish hands right now,” she explains. “It’s also great for anyone who types all day or works with their hands, and for nails that tend to snag or break, because there are no corners to catch.” While a red nail is a cold weather classic, Johnson’s preferred tomato tone is also revealing. “Tomato is warm, joyful and a bit retro, a red with a sense of humour,” says Capella. For those looking for a flirty pin-up feel, she recommends a bright candy apple, while burgundy, merlot, or oxblood all offer a “moody and grown-up” feel, as modelled by Dakota’s co-star Anne Hathaway.