16 Favorite Nude Nail Polishes of All Time

16 Favorite Nude Nail Polishes of All Time

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There are a few trends out there that we can safely say will never go out of style: a Chanel suit, red lipstick, and the little black dress (LBD). On the beauty front, nude nail polish is considered to be a look that has some serious staying power. There's truly something to be said about a shade that works for every season and any occasion.

However, like red lipstick, blush and foundation, nude nail polishes come in a variety of textures, hues and finishes. So which nude is the perfect match for your skin tone? Well, we created a complete guide to the nude polish shades that'll work best for you and your lovely undertones. Take a look and get ready to go nude.

Fair/Light Skin Tones

You know you have fair skin if even the sight of the sun makes you start to burn. As for light skin (yes, it's different), your tone is still fair but with more yellow or beige undertones.

Because of your lighter, cooler-toned skin, white or beige nudes should be avoided, as they can wash you out (and get lost on the fingers!). The key to rocking nude the right way is to allow it stand out - we know, this sounds a bit counterintuitive to the word "nude," but it's the truth. Sheer pink shades are the best way to go as they add a touch of warmth and contrast to your pale skin. Think: blush or soft rose.

Your best nude nail polish options:

essie Nail Color in Ballet Slippers . There's a reason this little number has been the brand's best-seller for years and has won countless beauty awards. The pale shade works wonders on any skin tone and nail shape, making it a staple in every salon and beauty drawer (including ours)!

YSL La Laque Couture in Beige Leger (see above image). If high-shine is your finish of choice, look no further! We love the warmth and depth of this timeless nude hue!

Lancôme Paris Vernis In Love in Rose Vintage . If you're looking for nude with a little to it (sans sparkle) go with this pretty rose shade! It features a subtle, iridescent shine that helps you stand out without going overboard.

essie Nail Color in Nude Beach (see above image). Let your true colors (or color) shine with this glimmering, sheer pink that's perfect for a summer day on the !

Essie Nail Color in Bare With Me (see above image, available May 2017). This warm apricot takes your natural nail hue up a notch. It has the slightest cast of gray that keeps in neutral and less orange.

Medium/Olive Skin Tones

Medium skin has a beige or light tan shade to it, with yellow or golden undertones. Olive has a bit more warmth than medium tone and has more brown and/or green undertones to it.

When it comes to nude polishes, make sure you avoid soft browns or warm mauves as they will blend too well into your skin tone. Go the lighter/brighter route with pinkish nudes that lean on the cooler side. If pink isn't your thing, try pale taupes or light beige shades to get the perfect nude. Check out the shades that fit your medium/olive skin to a tee.

Your best nude nail polish options:

L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Nail Polish in How Romantic . Who said you can't in the nude? This natural, beige shade throws a little glitz and glam into the mix for a subtle mani that can still hold its own.

Maybelline New York Color Show Nail Lacquer in Go Nude (see above image). This classic nude has just a hint (literally a teeny-tiny pinch) of pink that lends nails a soft, feminine touch.

NYX Cosmetics NYX Girls Nail Polish in Pearl Necklace . This pretty pearl polish (try saying that three times fast!) delivers a lovely vintage edge that's both timeless and versatile!

Giorgio Armani Nail Lacquer in Bianca (see above image). This shade is definitely over the taupe! Featuring a grayish undertone, it's an edgy approach to the classic nude polish.

Essie Nail Color in Without A Stitch (see above image, available May 2017). The perfect clean light gray that adds a wash of color over your nails. You'll love it's subtle, but gorgeous shade.

Deep/Darker Skin Tones

Dark-skinned complexions range from copper and espresso tones to dark brown and ebony.

When searching for the perfect nude nail polish, it's safe to say most shades are gonna flatter your tone. And while light and bright shades offer a nice contrast, rich, dark nudes are totally dreamy (and they won't wash you out!). Try deep taupes, dark browns, warm roses, etc. Think WARMTH. Here some color inspo for your deep, lovely skin tone.

Your best nude nail polish options:

Essie Nail Color in Eternal Optimist . This spicy rose shade features a nice shiny finish that gleams and sparkles perfectly. You'll literally become a glass-half-full person immediately after applying this fun, shimmering polish.

NYX Cosmetics Nail Lacquer in Choco-Taupe (see above image). The creamy, light brown tone reminds us of yummy chocolate ice cream...and who wouldn't want that on their nails? Talk about delectable!

L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Collection Exclusive in Liya's Nude (see above image).

If you're looking for a more feminine touch of nude, try a deep gray-rose shade like this satin-y one from L'Oréal Paris. The shade is super girly and elegant, so opt for this one for your next formal affair.

Essie Nail Colors in Truth or Bare and Clothing Optional (see above image of Truth or Bare, both available May 2017). The first, a rich cinnamon brown with a hint of red adds a sexy depth to nails, while the second shade, a neutral sienna brown has a bit more red and gives nails a warm nude veil of color.

The Nude Nail Rundown

Applying nude nail polish may seem like a no-brainer process. But, according to the pros, it still requires a little finesse. In addition to picking the right shade, there are some key rules of thumb to follow. Check out these tips:

Steer Clear of the Cuticle: "Whenever I apply nail polish I always avoid the cuticle area and if I do get a little polish on the skin, I wipe it off immediately," says nail artist Mimi Wilson , a.k.a. "Mimi D." Another easy way? Dip a cuticle brush in nail polish remover and use it to brush over the paint on your skin till it's gone.

Nude Nail Effects

News flash: Nude does not equal boring. There are quite a few different directions you can go with neutral nails that will still be flawless and stunning. Here are a few ways to mix things up.

Draw on Them: Dust off your drawing skills by adding some fun little effects to your nude digits. Polka dots, flowers, stripes - whatever way you wanna go, go for it! Invest in a nail art pen like The Body Shop Nail Art Pen that allows you to make a with any polish, decor or texture.

What's your go-to nude nail polish? Sound off in the comments below!

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