32 Perfect Nail Polish Colors When You Just Can’t Decide
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Ever since high school, I’ve been a fan of going to the nail shop and treating myself to manicures or pedicures. It was always a treat and how I like to practice self-care for myself. However, I take close to FOR-EVER to pick out a color.
I’m the customer staring at the plethora of colors, picking up a bottle one by one to see if it matches my skin tone, or I’m sitting in the massage chair with a stack of binders looking at every page of nail polish shades. If you’re like me, this list is for you.
To make another decision in your life a little easier, I’ve rounded up nail colors that are perfect to wear during any season, are versatile for any event, and are flattering on all skin tones!
From looking at the fancy manicures of our favorite celebrities, reviewing recommendations by beauty experts, and plain personal experience, each of these colors can become your “best friend of nail colors,” - reliable, always there for you, and makes you feel good! Frankly, this list of best nail colors will have your go-to shade that will never go out of style.
8 Best Nail Colors That Look Great All Year Long
Funny Bunny (Soft White)
Funny Bunny is the iconic soft white that celebrities, influencers, and almost everyone on the planet knows about. (I am a huge fan myself.) It’s much more flattering than a bright, flat white, and it matches any outfit of any day. So, when you’re not sure what color to choose at the nail shop, a soft white like everyone’s favorite little bunny will be a guaranteed pretty and flattering look! There are other variations of this pale white to try out, too!
Our Picks:
Image: Ulta
Funny Bunny
OPI
We made it easier for you to buy your bottle of Funny Bunny with one click! Bring it to the nail shop or do some touch-ups at home!
Image: Target
Image: Nordstrom
Image: Ulta
Cherry Red
An extra bright red is one of the best nail colors to wear any time of the year. You may think it’s only suitable for Valentine’s Day or during the holidays, but think again.
Year-round, you’ll see top celebrities wearing red, like Beyonce, Kendall Jenner, Taylor Swift, and even Rihanna, the FENTY queen who effortlessly rocks this shade from head to toe. (And we mean literally, from her Stunna Lip Stick, to an almond-shaped manicure, to a sexy red pedicure with flirty, high heels.) Whether it’s a silky finish or a shinier, more metallic look, we’re lucky to do the same with any of the nail shades below!
Our Picks:
Image: Ulta
Image: Ulta
Image: Amazon
Red Red
Wet n Wild
Super affordable and perfect to bring on the go for trips and unfortunate chipping!
Image: Nordstrom
Black
I am a strong believer that everyone looks good in black. From cool leather jackets, to chunky combat boots, or your go-to leather handbag–all look great in black, just like your next manicure. Wearing the deep color on your nails is not a bad fashion companion either, since it will undoubtedly match all of your looks and pair well with any jewelry that you wear daily.
If you’re thinking that all-black nails are meant to only be worn during the colder months or the spooky season, now is the time to reconsider! When you’re stuck on what color to choose for your next manicure, black nails will always be a guaranteed effortlessly cool option.
Our Picks:
Image: Ulta
Image: Ulta
Powerslide
SALLY HANSEN
A quick-drying black nail polish that gives a shiny finish at an affordable price.
Image: Sephora
Image: Nordstrom
Crystal Black
Gucci
A brilliant and intensely high-gloss black nail polish that delivers long-lasting shine.
Baby Pink
This is my favorite on the list and maybe my go-to color when I really can’t decide at my nail shop! While pink is naturally more feminine–and maybe a little flirty–these vibes are perfect to have any time of the year. The soft pink can also be a lot more flattering than other pinks, which may often be too bright or dramatic for some. We love all shades of pink, but the more delicate hue looks elegant on anyone!
Our Picks:
Image: Ulta
Let Nature Take Its Quartz
OPI
My favorite baby pink by OPI, it’s flattering for every skin tone, too.
Image: Ulta
Image: Amazon
Image: Amazon
Nude
You probably guessed this one, but an all-natural look will never go out of style. However, finding a nude shade that matches your skin tone is…well, actually pretty tricky. Since you want your nails to be highlighted (and not fade into your actual skin), pick a nude hue with warm undertones to brighten up your hands and prevent an unflattering manicure. Once you find your perfect nude nail color, it’s like finding gold!
Our Picks:
Image: Ulta
Image: Amazon
Re-Nude
Sally Hansen
Oil-infused nail polish in this creamy, nude finish for a refined and clean manicure.
Image: Ulta
Bubble Bath
OPI
Made famous by Kim Kardashian, for years she has raved that this is her ultimate go-to nude nail color.
Image: Nordstrom
Burgundy
Yes, this is an extension of red, but in a darker, more sultry shade. From experience, I’ve seen this color on so many people, and I feel it is a beautiful color for anyone! While it is typically worn throughout the fall and holiday seasons, that shouldn’t stop you from choosing it as a go-to shade throughout the year.
It’s both chic and professional, while also giving off sophisticated vibes, too. It is lovely for a first date, for the office, and even has a cute way of matching your favorite glass of red wine!
Our Picks:
Image: Target
Image: Target
Cassis
Le Mini Macaron
A 3-in-1 nail polish that includes a base coat, color, and top coat for an outstanding deep red color.
Image: Ulta
Image: Ulta
Navy Blue
Blue is a universally flattering color–think of denim, right? So, finding the most flattering shade of dark blue will be another color that you can add to your manicure rotation. You may feel that this nail color is a bit of a toss-up, but if black is too harsh for your taste, choosing a dark ocean blue can be just as pretty.
Navy blue nails have a way of matching just about anyone’s style and will look great all year long. To spice up this look even more, consider adding a sheer layer of gold glitter or a muted matte top coat.
Our Picks:
Image: Target
Midnight Drive
Sally Hansen
The fastest-drying blue nail polish on the list, this muted navy blue is perfect for everyday looks.
Image: Ulta
Aquarius Renegade
OPI
Like a starry night sky, this glittery dark blue will brighten up your nails perfectly!
Image: Nordstrom
Bleu Encre
Hermes
When you know you love this nail color, this luxury brand is always a posh and exquisite dark blue manicure.
Image: Amazon
French Tips
An easy and elegant nail design that has been around for decades, some may say that French tips are boring, but they are simple, classic, and pair seamlessly with anyone’s style, at any age. It is a manicure that is appropriate for all occasions, too! If you want to add a little spice, consider trying a different color on your nail tips. (We suggest black or any metallic shade for a more sparkly look!)
Our Picks:
Image: Ulta
Image: Ulta
Hi Maintenance
Essie
This off-white nail polish with tints of pink makes a solid base coat to your French tips, whether at the nail shop or at home!
Image: Ulta
French Press On Nails
OPI x xPRESS/ON
If you’re looking for length and to save some time, try these easy French tip press-ons!
Image: Ulta
Le Frenchie French Manicure Set
Le Mini Macaron
The cutest French tip manicure set that is perfect to do at home or even give as a gift!
We created this list to make your trips to the nail shop a little easier! I regularly get my nails done as a self-care ritual and I always feel better afterward, especially when I choose the right color. Find your most reliable nail color this year–one that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. We are confident it’s on this list!
