Deciding on flattering nail polish shades for tanned complexions entails understanding how particular colours complement darker pores and skin tones. For instance, vibrant corals, wealthy turquoise hues, and earthy terracotta shades usually create a placing distinction, whereas metallic golds and bronzes can improve the heat of a tan. Choosing the proper polish can intensify the palms and full an general polished look.
Harmonizing nail colour with pores and skin tone enhances the looks of palms and toes, creating a way of visible steadiness and class. Traditionally, adornment and the usage of colour have performed vital roles in varied cultures, and nail polish serves as a contemporary expression of this custom. A fastidiously chosen shade can enhance confidence and contribute to a constructive self-image. This consideration to element also can elevate a easy outfit or complement a extra elaborate ensemble.
This text will discover varied elements influencing nail colour selections for tanned pores and skin, together with particular shades, finishes, and seasonal traits. It’ll additionally delve into the sensible elements, reminiscent of utility strategies and product suggestions for reaching long-lasting, lovely outcomes.
1. Undertones
Figuring out the undertones of tanned pores and skin is paramount for choosing probably the most flattering nail polish shades. Undertones discuss with the delicate colours beneath the floor of the pores and skin, categorized as heat, cool, or impartial. This foundational understanding permits for harmonious colour coordination and enhances the general aesthetic.
-
Heat Undertones
Characterised by golden, yellow, or peachy hues, heat undertones in tanned pores and skin are fantastically complemented by earthy tones, reminiscent of terracotta, burnt orange, and olive inexperienced. Golds, bronzes, and wealthy browns additionally create a harmonious impact. For instance, a heat terracotta polish enhances the golden glow of warm-toned pores and skin. Avoiding shades with cool blue or pink undertones prevents clashes and ensures a cohesive look.
-
Cool Undertones
Tanned pores and skin with cool undertones displays hints of pink, pink, or blue. Jewel tones like emerald inexperienced, sapphire blue, and ruby pink create a placing distinction. Cooler shades like lavender, mauve, and icy blues additionally complement this undertone. For instance, a deep teal polish accentuates the coolness of the pores and skin, whereas a shade with sturdy yellow undertones may seem jarring.
-
Impartial Undertones
Impartial undertones symbolize a steadiness between heat and funky, providing versatility in colour selections. People with impartial undertones in tanned pores and skin can usually put on a wider vary of colours efficiently. Nudes, gentle pinks, and tender peaches, in addition to muted variations of brighter colours, are likely to work nicely. A dusty rose, as an illustration, enhances the balanced nature of impartial undertones, providing a classy and universally flattering alternative.
-
Figuring out Undertones
Observing the veins on the inside wrist can assist determine undertones. Inexperienced veins usually point out heat undertones, blue veins counsel cool undertones, and a mixture of each factors to impartial undertones. The best way pores and skin reacts to solar exposurewhether it burns simply or tans deeplycan additionally supply clues. Understanding this key side empowers knowledgeable selections in nail polish choice, maximizing the affect of colour coordination.
By precisely assessing undertones, people with tanned pores and skin can choose nail polish colours that improve their pure complexion, creating a refined and cohesive look. This foundational understanding permits for assured experimentation with varied shades, leading to a personalised and flattering aesthetic.
2. Complementary Colours
Using the colour wheel supplies a framework for understanding complementary colours and their affect on nail polish choice for tanned pores and skin. Complementary colours sit reverse one another on the colour wheel, making a dynamic distinction when paired. This distinction can improve the richness of a tan, making the chosen nail colour seem extra vibrant and crowd pleasing. For instance, if a tan displays golden undertones (suggesting an orange base), a complementary blue-toned polish can create a placing visible impact. Conversely, a tan with cooler, reddish undertones is perhaps complemented by a green-based polish. The interplay between these opposing colours amplifies their particular person depth, contributing to a visually interesting consequence.
Cautious consideration of shade depth inside complementary pairings proves essential. A extremely saturated complementary colour can generally overpower a tan. Choosing barely muted or toned-down variations of complementary colours usually results in a extra balanced and harmonious consequence. For instance, a vivid, electrical blue might overwhelm a lightweight tan, whereas a softer teal or turquoise supplies adequate distinction whereas sustaining a sublime steadiness. Equally, a fiery orange may conflict with a deep tan, whereas a muted terracotta or coral provides a extra complementary pairing. Understanding this interaction of depth permits for refined colour selections, making certain the nail polish enhances the tan with out creating a very stark distinction.
Deciding on complementary colours for nail polish enhances the visible affect of a tan by creating dynamic distinction. This distinction accentuates each the pores and skin tone and the chosen nail colour, contributing to a refined and well-coordinated aesthetic. Understanding the nuances of shade depth and the interaction of complementary colours on the colour wheel permits for strategic and flattering colour choice, resulting in a extra refined and customized model. Skillful utility of those ideas elevates the affect of a easy manicure, demonstrating an understanding of colour concept and its sensible utility in private aesthetics.
3. Distinction
Distinction performs an important function in figuring out the visible affect of nail polish in opposition to tanned pores and skin. The interaction between the nail colour and the pores and skin tone creates a dynamic that may both improve or detract from the general aesthetic. Strategic use of distinction permits for deliberate emphasis and contributes to a refined, well-coordinated look. Understanding the ideas of distinction empowers knowledgeable selections that flatter and complement tanned complexions.
-
Gentle vs. Darkish
A basic side of distinction entails the interaction of sunshine and darkish shades. Lighter nail polish colours in opposition to tanned pores and skin create a delicate, understated look. This method emphasizes the pure tan, permitting it to take heart stage. Conversely, darker shades supply a extra dramatic distinction, drawing consideration to the nails and making a bolder assertion. As an illustration, a pale nude polish on tanned pores and skin provides a minimalist aesthetic, whereas a deep burgundy or chocolate brown supplies a placing juxtaposition.
-
Heat vs. Cool
The distinction between heat and funky tones additionally considerably influences the general aesthetic. Heat-toned nail polishes, like corals and oranges, can complement the heat of a tan, making a harmonious mix. Cool-toned polishes, reminiscent of blues and greens, supply a refreshing distinction, notably in opposition to hotter, golden tans. A cool mint inexperienced, for instance, can create a vibrant distinction in opposition to a heat, bronze tan.
-
Saturated vs. Muted
The extent of colour saturation considerably impacts distinction. Extremely saturated colours supply a vibrant, high-impact look in opposition to tanned pores and skin. These shades command consideration and make a daring assertion. Muted or pastel shades present a softer distinction, leading to a extra understated and chic look. A neon pink, as an illustration, provides a high-contrast look, whereas a dusty rose supplies a extra subdued aesthetic in opposition to a tan.
-
Texture and End
Distinction extends past colour and encompasses texture and end. Matte finishes present a definite distinction in opposition to the pure sheen of tanned pores and skin, providing a contemporary and complex look. Shimmering or shiny finishes improve the vibrancy of a selected colour, making a extra glamorous impact. A matte black polish, for instance, provides a stark distinction in opposition to tanned pores and skin, whereas a shimmering gold enhances the pores and skin’s heat and radiance.
Mastering the ideas of distinction permits for strategic colour choice that enhances and enhances tanned pores and skin tones. By contemplating elements reminiscent of gentle versus darkish, heat versus cool, saturated versus muted, and texture/end, people can obtain a refined and harmonious look that displays private model and enhances their pure tan. This understanding of distinction permits for knowledgeable selections that elevate the affect of a manicure, showcasing the interaction of colour and tone to its fullest potential.
4. Vibrancy
Vibrancy, within the context of nail polish for tanned pores and skin, refers back to the depth and saturation of a colour. It performs a big function in how the chosen shade interacts with the complexion, influencing the general aesthetic. The extent of vibrancy can vary from delicate and muted to daring and placing, every providing a definite impact. Understanding the interaction between vibrancy and pores and skin tone is essential for choosing a nail colour that enhances and enhances the tan.
-
Vibrant, Saturated Shades
Extremely vibrant, saturated colours, reminiscent of electrical blues, fuchsia pinks, and vibrant corals, create a dramatic distinction in opposition to tanned pores and skin. These shades command consideration and make a daring assertion, very best for these in search of a high-impact look. For instance, a vibrant turquoise in opposition to a deep tan creates a visually placing distinction that emphasizes each the tan and the nail colour. Nonetheless, extremely saturated colours can generally overwhelm sure pores and skin tones, so cautious consideration of the person’s tan is essential.
-
Jewel Tones
Jewel tones, reminiscent of emerald inexperienced, sapphire blue, and ruby pink, supply a wealthy, luxurious vibrancy. These shades usually complement deeper tans, creating an opulent and complex aesthetic. A deep amethyst, for instance, can fantastically intensify the heat of a tan, creating a way of depth and richness. The inherent vibrancy of jewel tones makes them an acceptable alternative for particular events or for including a contact of class to on a regular basis appears to be like.
-
Pastel and Muted Shades
Pastel and muted shades, reminiscent of lavender, blush pink, and mint inexperienced, supply a softer, extra understated vibrancy. These colours create a delicate distinction in opposition to tanned pores and skin, leading to a fragile and refined look. A tender peach, as an illustration, can complement a lighter tan with out overpowering it, making a harmonious and chic look. These much less vibrant shades are versatile and appropriate for varied events, providing a contact of colour with out being overly daring.
-
Neon Shades
Neon shades symbolize the best degree of vibrancy, providing a particularly daring and energetic look. These intensely vivid colours, reminiscent of neon pink, yellow, and inexperienced, create a stark distinction in opposition to tanned pores and skin. Whereas they could be a enjoyable and playful alternative for sure events, they require cautious consideration as they’ll generally conflict with sure undertones or seem overly intense. Neon shades are greatest suited to these in search of a daring and unconventional aesthetic.
The selection of vibrancy in nail polish considerably influences the general aesthetic when paired with tanned pores and skin. Deciding on a degree of vibrancy that enhances the person’s particular tan and desired look is essential for reaching a harmonious and flattering consequence. From the delicate class of pastels to the daring assertion of neon shades, understanding the function of vibrancy permits for knowledgeable selections that improve the fantastic thing about tanned pores and skin and mirror private model.
5. Season
Seasonal influences considerably affect nail colour selections for tanned pores and skin. Simply as clothes selections shift with the altering seasons, so too ought to nail polish picks. Shade palettes that complement a summer season tan might seem jarring in opposition to the cooler backdrop of winter. This seasonal consideration enhances the general aesthetic, making certain the chosen nail colour harmonizes with the prevailing temper and setting. As an illustration, vibrant corals and turquoise shades improve the summer season glow, reflecting the brilliant, energetic really feel of the season. Conversely, deeper jewel tones, like emerald inexperienced or sapphire blue, complement the richer, hotter tones of autumn and winter apparel.
The depth of a tan usually fluctuates all year long, influencing the effectiveness of particular nail colours. A deeper summer season tan supplies a sturdy canvas for a wider vary of colours, permitting for bolder selections. As tans fade throughout colder months, lighter or extra muted shades might supply a extra complementary look. A vivid neon pink may pop in opposition to a deep summer season tan, whereas a softer, dusty rose is perhaps extra flattering in opposition to a lighter, winter tan. Adapting nail colour selections to those seasonal shifts ensures a persistently harmonious aesthetic, maximizing the affect of the chosen shade.
Seasonal traits additional refine nail colour selections for tanned pores and skin. Style runways and magnificence forecasts usually spotlight particular colour palettes and finishes for every season. Incorporating these traits can add a up to date contact to 1’s general look. Nonetheless, private desire and particular person pores and skin tone ought to all the time stay major concerns. Whereas a classy olive inexperienced is perhaps trendy within the fall, it won’t complement all tanned complexions. Balancing seasonal traits with particular person suitability ensures a trendy but customized method to nail colour choice.
6. End (matte, shimmer)
The end of a nail polishwhether matte, shimmer, or glosssignificantly impacts its look in opposition to tanned pores and skin. End impacts how gentle interacts with the colour, influencing its perceived depth and vibrancy. Cautious number of end enhances the chosen colour and enhances the person’s tan, contributing to a refined and well-coordinated aesthetic. Understanding the interaction between end and pores and skin tone permits for knowledgeable selections that maximize the visible affect of a manicure.
-
Matte
Matte finishes soak up gentle, making a flat, non-reflective floor. This impact can create a classy and fashionable look in opposition to tanned pores and skin, notably with darker or richer colours. A matte burgundy, for instance, seems deeper and extra velvety in opposition to a tan in comparison with its shiny counterpart. Matte finishes additionally have a tendency to emphasise the distinction between the nail colour and the pores and skin, making the colour seem extra pronounced. Nonetheless, matte finishes can generally seem boring or chalky if the polish will not be utilized correctly or if the nails have imperfections.
-
Shimmer
Shimmer finishes comprise tremendous, light-reflecting particles that add a delicate sparkle and dimension to the nail colour. This end can improve the heat of a tan and create a extra glamorous impact. A shimmering gold or bronze, as an illustration, enhances the golden undertones usually current in tanned pores and skin, including a contact of radiance. Shimmer finishes also can assist to disguise minor imperfections on the nail floor. Nonetheless, extreme shimmer can generally seem dated or detract from the sophistication of sure colours.
-
Gloss
Shiny finishes mirror gentle, making a shiny, polished floor. This basic end enhances the vibrancy and depth of colour, making it seem richer and extra luminous. A shiny pink, for instance, seems brighter and extra eye-catching in opposition to tanned pores and skin. Shiny finishes additionally create a way of smoothness and evenness on the nail floor. Nonetheless, shiny finishes can generally spotlight imperfections, reminiscent of ridges or unevenness, extra readily than matte or shimmer finishes.
-
Different Finishes
Past matte, shimmer, and gloss, varied different finishes exist, every providing distinctive visible results. These embody metallic, holographic, glitter, and textured finishes. Metallic finishes supply a high-shine, reflective look, much like polished metallic. Holographic finishes create a rainbow-like impact, shifting colours relying on the angle of sunshine. Glitter finishes add sparkle and texture, starting from tremendous to chunky glitter particles. Textured finishes mimic supplies like leather-based or sand, including a tactile dimension to the nails. Every of those finishes interacts in another way with tanned pores and skin and provides numerous aesthetic prospects.
The selection of end for nail polish performs a vital function within the last look in opposition to tanned pores and skin. By understanding how completely different finishes work together with gentle and complement varied pores and skin tones, people can choose probably the most flattering choice. Whether or not one prefers the understated class of matte, the delicate shimmer of light-reflecting particles, the basic shine of gloss, or the distinctive results of different finishes, cautious consideration of this factor ensures a refined and harmonious look that enhances the fantastic thing about tanned pores and skin.
7. Event
The event considerably influences nail colour selections for tanned pores and skin. Formal occasions necessitate completely different aesthetic concerns in comparison with informal outings or skilled settings. Aligning nail colour with the event ensures a harmonious and acceptable look, demonstrating an understanding of social and stylistic conventions. This consideration to element elevates the general impression and contributes to a refined and well-coordinated look.
-
Formal Occasions
Formal events, reminiscent of weddings, galas, or award ceremonies, usually name for elegant and understated nail polish selections. Basic shades like deep reds, elegant nudes, or refined metallics complement formal apparel with out overpowering the general look. A French manicure or a delicate shimmer can add a contact of refinement. For instance, a deep burgundy or a shimmering champagne enhances the class of a night robe, whereas avoiding overly vivid or unconventional colours maintains the formality of the event.
-
Skilled Settings
Skilled environments usually require extra conservative nail colour selections. Impartial shades, reminiscent of tender pinks, beiges, or gentle mauves, preserve an expert look whereas nonetheless complementing tanned pores and skin. These understated colours keep away from distraction and mission a picture of competence and class. A basic French manicure is usually thought-about acceptable for {most professional} settings. Avoiding overly vivid or embellished nails ensures a refined {and professional} picture.
-
Informal Outings
Informal outings and social gatherings enable for larger flexibility in nail colour selections. Brighter shades, stylish finishes, and playful nail artwork can specific private model and complement informal apparel. Vibrant corals, turquoise blues, or sunny yellows can improve a summery look, whereas deeper jewel tones or playful glitters can add a contact of enjoyable to an off-the-cuff outfit. This relaxed setting supplies a chance to experiment with completely different colours and finishes, reflecting particular person preferences and the general temper of the event.
-
Trip and Leisure
Holidays and leisure actions usually encourage extra vibrant and playful nail colour selections. Vibrant neons, tropical hues, and crowd pleasing finishes mirror the relaxed and carefree environment of those settings. For instance, a vibrant orange or a shimmering turquoise can complement a seashore trip look, whereas a playful combine of colours and patterns can add a contact of enjoyable to a weekend getaway. This context permits for larger experimentation with colour and design, expressing private model and embracing the spirit of leisure.
Adapting nail colour to the event demonstrates an understanding of social context and stylistic nuances. From the understated class of formal occasions to the playful vibrancy of informal outings, aligning nail colour selections with the event contributes to a harmonious and acceptable general impression. This consideration to element enhances private model and displays a refined and well-coordinated method to self-presentation.
8. Private Desire
Whereas goal elements like pores and skin undertones and seasonal traits inform nail colour choice for tanned pores and skin, private desire stays an important determinant. In the end, the “greatest” colour is subjective and relies on particular person style. This private factor permits for self-expression and ensures alignment with particular person model, overriding any prescribed guidelines. Understanding how private desire interacts with goal elements results in a really customized and satisfying alternative.
-
Consolation and Confidence
Essentially the most flattering nail colour is commonly the one which makes a person really feel most comfy and assured. This sense of ease can stem from varied sources, together with affiliation with constructive reminiscences, alignment with private model, or just a sense of “rightness.” Somebody may gravitate in direction of a particular shade of blue as a result of it reminds them of a favourite trip, even when it does not completely align with typical color-matching tips. This emotional connection can considerably affect how they understand the colour on themselves.
-
Threat Tolerance and Experimentation
Private desire influences willingness to experiment with completely different colours and finishes. Some people take pleasure in exploring a variety of shades, from daring neons to delicate pastels, whereas others favor to remain inside a narrower consolation zone. Somebody with a excessive danger tolerance may attempt a classy holographic end or an unconventional colour mixture, whereas somebody extra cautious may keep on with basic reds or neutrals. This willingness to experiment shapes the person’s method to nail colour choice and their general aesthetic.
-
Life-style and Practicality
Life-style concerns additionally play a task in private desire. People with lively existence may favor extra sturdy finishes or colours much less susceptible to chipping. Somebody who works with their palms may go for shorter nails and extra impartial shades for practicality. These sensible constraints affect colour selections, demonstrating the interaction between private desire and each day life.
-
Cultural and Social Influences
Cultural and social influences can subtly form private preferences. Publicity to sure colours or types inside one’s cultural context can affect particular person style. Somebody rising up in a area with sturdy creative traditions might need a special method to paint than somebody from a extra minimalist background. These influences, whereas usually unconscious, contribute to the event of particular person preferences.
In the end, the “greatest” nail colour for tanned pores and skin stays a subjective alternative influenced by a confluence of goal elements and private preferences. Whereas understanding undertones, seasons, and finishes supplies a useful framework, aligning these concerns with particular person style ensures a really customized and satisfying consequence. Embracing private desire permits people to precise themselves by way of colour, creating a glance that enhances not solely their look but in addition their sense of self.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent queries concerning nail colour choice for tanned pores and skin, offering concise and informative responses.
Query 1: Do sure nail polish colours make tanned pores and skin look darker or lighter?
Nail polish can create the phantasm of lighter or darker pores and skin relying on the chosen shade. Lighter shades typically improve a tan, making it seem extra distinguished. Conversely, darker shades can generally make pores and skin seem barely lighter in distinction. The undertone of each the polish and the tan performs a big function on this impact.
Query 2: How can one decide the perfect shades for his or her particular tan?
Figuring out undertoneswhether heat, cool, or neutralis essential. Consulting a colour wheel can help in figuring out complementary colours. Moreover, experimenting with completely different shades and observing their interplay with the pores and skin supplies useful perception. Testing polishes underneath pure gentle ensures correct evaluation.
Query 3: Are there particular colours to keep away from with tanned pores and skin?
Whereas no strict prohibitions exist, some colours is probably not as flattering as others. Shades that intently match the tan can generally seem washed out. Moreover, sure neon shades may conflict with particular undertones. In the end, the perfect method entails experimentation to find out particular person suitability.
Query 4: Does nail polish end (matte, shimmer, gloss) have an effect on the looks on tanned pores and skin?
End considerably impacts the general aesthetic. Matte finishes can create a classy look, notably with darker colours. Shimmer finishes improve the heat and radiance of tanned pores and skin. Shiny finishes present a basic, polished look. The selection relies on private desire and the specified impact.
Query 5: How does seasonality have an effect on nail colour selections for tanned pores and skin?
Seasonal traits and the depth of 1’s tan affect acceptable colour selections. Brighter, extra vibrant shades usually complement deeper summer season tans. As tans fade in cooler months, extra muted or deeper shades could also be extra flattering. Aligning nail colour with seasonal palettes ensures a harmonious look.
Query 6: Can nail polish be used to enrich particular outfits or equipment?
Coordinating nail polish with outfits and equipment enhances general model. Contemplate the colour palette and magnificence of the outfit when deciding on a nail colour. Matching metals, complementing colour households, or creating delicate contrasts can elevate the look. Nonetheless, extreme matching can generally seem contrived, so steadiness is vital.
Cautious consideration of those elements ensures flattering and harmonious nail colour choice for tanned pores and skin. Experimentation and private desire stay important parts of discovering probably the most appropriate shades.
For additional data concerning particular product suggestions and utility strategies, seek the advice of the next part.
Suggestions for Deciding on Nail Polish for Tanned Pores and skin
This part provides sensible steering for selecting nail polish colours that complement tanned complexions. The following pointers take into account varied elements, together with undertones, distinction, and event, to make sure a harmonious and flattering consequence.
Tip 1: Decide Pores and skin Undertone: Precisely assessing pores and skin undertonewhether heat, cool, or neutralis paramount. Heat undertones harmonize with earthy tones and golds, whereas cool undertones go well with jewel tones and blues. Impartial undertones supply larger flexibility.
Tip 2: Contemplate Distinction: Distinction between nail colour and pores and skin tone creates visible curiosity. Lighter shades supply a delicate look, whereas darker shades create a bolder assertion. The extent of distinction ought to align with private desire and the specified impact.
Tip 3: Embrace Complementary Colours: Consulting a colour wheel helps determine complementary colours, these reverse one another on the wheel. These pairings create dynamic distinction, enhancing each the tan and the nail colour. For instance, a coral polish enhances a blue-based tan.
Tip 4: Issue within the Season: Seasonal adjustments affect tan depth and acceptable colour palettes. Brighter shades go well with summer season tans, whereas deeper, richer tones complement paler winter complexions. Aligning nail colour with seasonal traits provides a up to date contact.
Tip 5: Choose an Applicable End: Nail polish finishmatte, shimmer, or glosssignificantly impacts the ultimate look. Matte provides a contemporary, refined aesthetic, shimmer enhances heat and radiance, and gloss supplies a basic, polished look. The selection relies on the specified impact and general model.
Tip 6: Align with the Event: Event dictates acceptable colour selections. Formal occasions name for understated class, skilled settings require impartial shades, and informal outings enable for larger flexibility and self-expression. Adapting nail colour to the event ensures a harmonious and acceptable look.
Tip 7: Prioritize Private Desire: Whereas goal elements information choice, private desire stays paramount. Essentially the most flattering colour is in the end the one which instills confidence and aligns with particular person model. Experimentation and self-expression are inspired.
By contemplating the following pointers, people can confidently choose nail polish colours that improve their tanned pores and skin, creating a refined and harmonious aesthetic. These tips supply a framework for knowledgeable decision-making, empowering people to discover varied colours and finishes that complement their distinctive complexion and private model.
The next conclusion summarizes the important thing takeaways of this text and provides last suggestions for reaching a flawless manicure on tanned pores and skin.
Conclusion
Attaining a harmonious and flattering manicure on tanned pores and skin entails cautious consideration of varied elements. Understanding undertoneswarm, cool, or neutralprovides a basis for choosing acceptable colours. Earthy tones and golds complement heat undertones, whereas jewel tones and blues improve cool undertones. Impartial undertones supply larger versatility. Distinction, created by the interaction of sunshine and darkish shades, additional influences the visible affect. The finishmatte, shimmer, or glossadds one other dimension, impacting gentle reflection and general aesthetic. Harmonizing nail colour with the event ensures appropriateness and stylistic coherence. In the end, private desire stays paramount, as probably the most flattering colour instills confidence and displays particular person model.
Strategic nail colour choice elevates the aesthetic affect of tanned pores and skin, demonstrating an understanding of colour concept and private model. Continuous exploration of colour palettes and finishes permits for ongoing refinement and adaptation to evolving traits and particular person preferences. This consideration to element contributes to a refined and complex look, enhancing general presentation.
