As much as we love over-the-top statement-making moments, sometimes simple is best. And the best thing about going with something a little bit more subtle and subdued? It goes with just about anything—from outfits to occasions. One way we love to go the simple route is with our nail polishes.
Sure, it’s fun to try some unique colors and eye-catching nail art, but for everyday moments or when you have an amazing outfit that you don’t want to distract from, a simple, uncomplicated nail polish works best. It can be classic, elegant, chic, and effortless all at once. And the cool thing about going with a simple look is, most of these colors will never go out of style. So, you can potentially find your signature, to-to polish when you try out these hues.
Need some inspiration? See some of our favorite colors below.
This creamy neutral works with all skin tones. It’s bound to be a mainstay in your nail polish collection.
This pinkish-nude can almost blend into certain skin tones. The formula is enriched with bioceramics and ceramides to strengthen and nourish the nails.
Another creamy nude, this one has brown and taupe tones.
Revlon’s Romantique is like a mix between nude, brown, and pink. The formula is chip- and fade-resistant.
A light almond color, this polish is almost like getting a gel manicure at the salon. It delivers a high-shine finish and has ingredients to promote healthy nails.
If you don’t want to go the nude route, a light, sheer pink is a pretty and simple hue, too. This high-gloss polish provides up to 11 days of wear.
It doesn’t get more classic and elegant as Essie’s Ballet Slippers. I mean, if the Queen of England is a fan, you know it’s classy.
A peachy pink, Jinsoon’s Nostalgia polish is almost like a step above a neutral.
Both creamy and sheer, this polish is delicate, pretty, and works with any skin tone.
Àuda.B’s pretty pink nail polish is a vegan formula that’s almost gel-like.
Grays are also a great neutral option that is still very subtle. This medium-dark, taupe gray is so versatile and works for just about any season.
Almost like a dove gray, this polish is another gel-like formula that has staying power. It lasts up to eight days.
Olive and June’s AW is a cross between a gray and a brown, so it’s a good option if you want a warmer-toned polish.
A light, cloudy gray, this polish from OPI is both creamy and warm. The formula is naturally sourced and provides up to seven days of wear.
Essie’s Chinchilly is another classic and beloved polish. It’s the perfect “greige.”
A “simple” nail polish doesn’t mean it has to be a lighter shade. You can go for a sophisticated dark hue, too. This cinnamon brown polish from Olive and June has just the right amount of intrigue without being too flashy.
A deep and dark red is a classic, too. It’s not as in-your-face as a vampy red, but it’s still got that saturated color.
This inky, navy blue is a nice change if you are tired of black polishes.
A dark gray-blue, OPI’s nail polish is like an upgraded neutral.
Black goes with just about everything right? Sally Hansen’s polish delivers a gel-like, long-lasting finish. Next: Celeb Manicurists Say These Are the Best Nude Nail Colors for Every Skin Tone
