Buzz
Disclaimer: Ultimately, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to picking a nail polish color. If you're drawn to a '70s-inspired avocado green, go ahead and wear it, or if you're feeling the allure of a classic red, don't hesitate to embrace it.
That said, it's useful to know which shades complement your complexion best. This can be especially helpful when picking the most flattering neutral tones, such as nudes or pinks. We spoke with a few manicurists for their expert advice, and they eagerly shared their recommendations on the best nail colors for every skin tone.
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Best Nail Colors for Cool Undertones
Those with cool undertones tend to show shades of red and blue in fair skin, and purple or red in darker skin tones. A simple way to determine if you have cool undertones is to check the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue or purple, it's likely you have a cool complexion.
According to celebrity manicurist Queenie Nguyen, “Nail polish colors with cool tones—such as blue, lavender, and soft pink—tend to suit people with cool undertones.” Pastels, blue-based reds, and jewel tones also look fantastic. For brown polish, go for taupes.
OPI Nail Lacquer: Got the Blues for Red
This deep red with blue undertones has a wine-like richness that feels both dramatic and timeless.
Orly Nail Lacquer Breathable: Do A Beryl
Inspired by the beryl gemstone, this green nail polish features a subtle metallic shimmer for an added touch of elegance.
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Color: 205 To The Taupe
Best Nail Colors for Warm Undertones
Darker skin tones with warm undertones often show hints of orange, gold, or honey, while lighter skin with warm undertones tends to have a peachy or golden hue. When examining your veins, if they appear slightly greenish, you likely have warm undertones.
“When selecting a color, aim for the warmer side of each shade,” suggests nail artist Leslie Ayala. For instance, “If you're opting for a red polish, choose a brick red or a fire engine red.” She also recommends salmon, mustard, teal, bright oranges, and soft pinks as flattering choices.
Essie: Any-Fin Goes
This vibrant tangerine shade makes a bold statement and pairs beautifully with all skin tones featuring warm undertones.
ILNP: Stopping Traffic
For warm undertones, choose a red nail polish with an orange base, like this one, instead of a blue-toned red.
OPI Nail Lacquer: Rosy Future
For a soft, understated nail polish that enhances warm skin tones, choose a delicate, pale pink with warm undertones.
Best Nail Colors for Olive Skin Tones
Olive skin tones are distinctive, as they combine both neutral and warm undertones, making it easier to find complementary nail polish colors. Nguyen explains, “Olive undertones suit a wide range of shades, including burgundy, vibrant pink, and blue. Silver and metallic shades can also be fun options for olive undertones.”
Ayala concurs, adding that beige, black, navy, and emerald hues are also flattering choices for olive skin tones. If you prefer warmer colors, avoid overly bright shades.
Lights Lacquer: I’ll Be Home
This rich navy shade makes a bold statement while complementing olive skin tones with its neutral undertones.
China Glaze: The Near Fuchsia
This striking pink nail color boasts subtle warm undertones, a rare find in pink polishes.
Zoya: Trixie
Metallic silver is a stunning choice for olive skin tones. This particular one applies opaquely, creating a bold and striking manicure.
How to Pick the Perfect Nude Nail Polish
Have you ever noticed that one nude nail polish makes your hands look amazing, while another doesn't quite do the trick? Even though the differences between nude shades are subtle, these slight variations can really change the final effect.
No worries. Ayala has a foolproof method for selecting the ideal nude nail polish for your skin tone: “The perfect nude, in my opinion, is easy to find by matching it to the color of your natural nail bed and selecting a shade just a bit lighter,” she explains. “Sheer nudes enhance your natural nail color without fully covering it—just perfecting it.” Think of it like a tinted moisturizer for your face!
