"Ever since 7th grade — and much to my mother's dismay — Essie Wicked ($9) was always my favourite "back-to-school" nail polish shade, and it still is. This classic, deep red-brown is pretty sheer with one coat, but transforms into the ultimate vampy oxblood by it's second. It's deep enough to starkly contrast my olive-toned skin, but neutral enough to pretty much go with any chunky sweater or fall makeup look. I'll always love this shade because it captures everything nostalgic about fall — cool nights, rich foliage, and of course, Halloween." — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, associate beauty editor, Makeup.com