The Best Polishes I’ve Laid My Eyes on Since Everyone Stepped Up Their Nail Game

There’s no denying the fashion and beauty worlds have rebounded from a year and a half of staying at home. We’re all suddenly wearing bright pink, vibrant green, pale yellow, and even… tangerine. Checkerboards, retro florals, and screen-printed designs are all over jeans, sweaters, and second-skin tops. And when it comes to our nails, we’ve gone haywire! French manicures in red; purple and green gel polishes swirled into ethereal designs; matte finishes painted over vibrant hues. And that’s just the half of it! Nail salons may be open again, but I know I’m not the only one who finds at-home manicures to be a relaxing form of self-care now. Below, I rounded up some of the year’s hottest nail shades and finishes. It’s up to you to decide if you’ll attempt some intricate nail art or keep it classic. There’s no wrong answer.

All shades of gray are acceptable these days, but I’m a fan of the paler tones.

Metallics and glitters are also having a moment. This silver shade feels so festive for winter.

With all the chunky silver jewelry and lug-sole boots I’m seeing around town, I’m not surprised black nails are back, too.

Tangerine has been a key color trend for fashion and nails.

Matte is such an unexpected finish, especially over vibrant neon tones.

This nude will be in your rotation for years to come.

It’s time to swap out your classic dark red with this lighter shade. The perfect hue for those modern French manicures.

Topcoats are nonnegotiable.

Dark cool blues have been spotted on every fashion person over the last few weeks. This trend isn’t going to die down any time soon.