Like everything in fashion, nail trends come and go.
Shapes have grown from short and “squoval” in the 1990s to the more modern sharp-edged coffins.
While it’s always fun to embrace new nail polish trends, not all shades have staying power.
That grassy green polish may look gorgeous in the bottle but garish on your nails.
If the trends of today aren’t for you, don’t wring your hands over it.
These are some of our favorite shades that have stood the test of time.
However, they weren’t the first of the royal family to don the color.
What you do need to have, however, is a basic knowledge of your skin tone.
In other words, don’t underestimate the shade or the people who wear it.
Pink comes in many forms, from pale to pastel.
Milky pink shades like O.P.I.
Bubble Bath is subdued but not sheer.
It’s a step above natural and easy to pull off for most skin tones.
Unlike bubblegum pinks, it won’t be overly sweet.
More haute than hot pink, it goes from the beach to the boardroom without skipping a beat.
Delmonte claims that she gets approached by more men when her nails are painted red.
It may sound strange, butscienceseems to back up this theory.
Plus, red is commonly associated with love and glamour.
It’s the color of candy apples, classic cars, and Taylor Swift’s iconic pout.
It goes with everything from black ties to blue jeans and radiates confidence and power.
Perhaps that’s why it’s a go-to nail shade for many of Mazz Hanna’s celebrity clients.
You’ll be ready to take on the world and maybe even get a date!
Named thePantone Color of the Year in 2019, it evokes good vibes.
Seeing this color might have you recalling past sunny days, sandy beaches, and salt-rimmed margaritas.
Try the perennial favorite,O.P.I.
Cajun Shrimp, which the brand describes as a “spicy shade.”
It works with every season, every skin tone, and every occasion from weekend bonfires to weekday meetings.
Dark and dramatic
Name a more iconic polish than Chanel Le Vernis in the shade Vamp.
Go ahead; we’ll wait.
Both the nail polish and the movie were hits.
Vamp became a bestseller, and it’s easy to see why.
It’s urban and edgy, and with an unmistakable cool vibe that transcends age and gender.
In sharp contrast to the bright colors of the 1980s, it reflected the grunge trend dominating the ’90s.
It allowed women to explore their “dark” sides without embracing the alternative look from head to toe.
And it did all that for just $15 per bottle (now $30).
According toWho What Wear, the look was created by Jeff Pink, president and CEO of Orly International.
That “goes with everything” element is probably why the French manicure is still going strong decades later.
Gray is a solid neutral that plays well with other colors.
As Essie celebrity manicurist Michelle Saunders toldPopSugar, “Gray signifies balance and serenity.”
Who couldn’t use more of that in their life?
If unsure, stick to something light likeEssie’s Without A Stichfor a hint of gray coverage.
Like a fine Merlot, rich shades of burgundy age well, meaning they only get better with time.
A kissing cousin of red burgundy is more elegant than opulent and can elevate any outfit.
“Short, strong, natural-shaped nails help the color pop,” Bachik said.
Likewise, Hailey Bieber’s manicurist, Zola Ganzorigt, toldGraziathatO.P.I.
’s Malaga Winewas the most requested color among her clients in the fall of 2022.
Like your favorite wine, it’s delicious whenever you choose to indulge.
A fun way to make your navy nails stand out is to play around with the textures.
Moreover, you could even paint all nails matte but leave one finger with a glossy finish.
TryZoya Yves Matte Velvetto nail the look and tip it withO.P.I.
Yoga-ta Get This Blue.
Heavy metals
All that glitters is gold and silver, and chrome.
That’s wherechrome powdersor topcoats come in.
These turn down the wattage while turning any color into a subtle metallic moment.
Think glazed donut versus golden statuette.
A clear winner
Sometimes less is more, as in the case of clear nail polish.
Always in style, a clear nail looks modern, chic, and well-groomed.
It gives off an “I woke up like this” vibe that tries without trying too hard.
According toOrly Beauty, “the point of using clear polish is to compliment the natural nail.”
Then gentlypush the cuticles backwith an orange stick.
Next, trim the nails if needed and file the edges.
For a not-quite-clear that will improve nails from the inside out, tryEssie’s Glow and Shinenail strengthener.
We’re talking about the milky white nails Mrs. Aflleck wore during her nuptials.
This universally flattering shade is at home on the beach, with jeans, or at a black-tie affair.
’s Funny Bunnyto get the J-Lo look for yourself.
Celebrity husband sold separately!
The key to wearing black nail polish is in the color and finish.
Look for a shade without any hints of blue or gray with a high gloss finish.
“I like it because it’s solid and ultra-glossy.
it’s possible for you to even get away with just doing one coat.”
Nail artist Jaz Moger toldAllurethat the reason for its continued popularity is the feeling it creates.
“Green is a dominant color in nature, provoking feelings of growth and peace,” Moger described.
Don’t want to go all in?
