Not everyone wants to change their nail color daily to match their outfit, yet it's important to avoid clashing. The solution? Finding a versatile nail color that works with any look.
So, what color do nails go with everything? We've done the research to bring you the top universally flattering shades. Keep reading to discover these colors, learn when and how to use them, and see our favorite picks.
Neutral Nail colors work for everything
As you can see, almost everything on the list is a neutral color. Because of this, it works with any outfit. However, some are better for certain seasons or complexions.
For example, darker-skinned complexions can wear brown nail polish any time of year. For the fairer among us, brown is a bold statement that works much better in fall than summer. Read on as we discuss each color and any caveats or exceptions to its use.
1. Red
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Red is a bold and vibrant color that works with everything. The only exception? If you're past the days of youthful skin and hands, red polish with blue undertones may make your hands look older.
Just compare your red to something orange and something blue. Held side by side, it will be easy to see if it has a warm red or cool blue undertone.
As long as you avoid blue (which tends to bring out blue-ish veins that are more prominent in aging skin), you're good to go.
Try this favorite by OPI, called Big Apple Red:
2. Beige
A neutral that works with any outfit and any time of year, this one should only be avoided by the fair-skinned. Beige tends to make pale skin look yellowed (use nude instead). For the medium or darker-skinned, try this light beige:
3. Blush Pink
Beige might be a no-go for our fair-skinned friends, but blush pink is the best friend to those fair faces. While anyone can pull off a blush pink if desired, few colors look quite as good on fair skin as a lovely shade of blush.
4. Nude
Picking the right nude can be a bit tricky. If you're darker-skinned, you can get away with basically any nude. Those with medium complexions wear beige best (listed above). For lighter skin types, stick to a light nude such as this one:
5. Gray
For a more modern and edgy style, try gray. It's hip, current, and trending at the moment. Not to mention, gray goes with everything and is particularly stylish for the winter season.
6. Cream
This color can be used year-round. However, there's something just warm and comforting about a nice, rich cream in the fall or winter. A perfect match for olive skin or anyone who wants to brighten up a warm complexion.
7. White
Similar to cream, this color works for all complexions and skin types. The only exception? White looks best on short, natural nails.
8. Ivory
With cool undertones, ivory is the opposite of cream. Use it if you have a cool complexion and want an off-white shade.
9. Silver
This might be a bit too daring for some of us to use on an everyday basis. It's certainly unique and bold. Whether you use it regularly or just for a night on the town, silver really is a neutral that goes with everything. Just be sure to avoid clashing with gold jewelry.
10. Brown
Browns can work just like any other nude on the right skin tone. Avoid going too dark if you want a neutral look—stick within the confines of your skin tone to pull it off.
If you aren't going for a natural look, be as bold as you want! Brown works with almost any skin tone, especially in the fall, and it's especially trendy right now.
How Do I Choose The Right Nail Color?
To choose the right nail color, you'll need to know if your complexion is warm or cool and if your skin type is considered fair, medium, or deep.
To determine between warm and cool, first look at the veins around your face or your hands (your face may be easier to tell).
If they appear blue, this indicates a cool complexion. More yellow or green means a warm complexion. If they don't seem to be either, you may be neutral. Most people with olive skin fall into the neutral category.
Still not sure? Another hint is that warm complexions tend to look better next to gold jewelry, and cool complexions wear silver well. Try holding one beside your face to see which suits your skin.
Light skin has very little melanin and tends to burn easily. Medium skin tone is more of a beige, a balanced neutral (olive skin is considered medium).
For a deeper dive into the types of nail polish and finishes that might suit your complexion, check out our article, "23 Types Of Nail Polish And Finishes."
What Is The Most Flattering Nail Color?
If you've determined that you're warm-toned, then stick to browns, reds, and oranges for the most appealing look. This includes other colors such as pink or gray - you can wear them well, but pick one with a brown undertone.
For example, with pink, pick a beige pink rather than a cool blue-toned pink. (Can't tell? Look at it on a pure white background for help.)
If you are cool-complexioned, focus on reds, pinks, and purples, and select colors with a blue base. For those with neutral skin, lucky you—you can wear anything!
Light-skinned people should typically avoid dark colors that create a washed-out effect as far as light or dark complexions. Black, deep browns, rich plums, and related colors will generally be too intense for that skin type.
On the other hand, olive or medium skin looks best with bolder tones - anything too light tends to go unnoticed. With deeper skin types, stick with bold, vivid colors that really pop.
Should You Match Your Nail Polish To Your Outfit?
It's not necessary to match your nail polish to your outfit. Rather, find a color that complements the outfit. For example, if you're wearing a printed dress, don't wear patterned nail art that competes or clashes with your clothing.
Pick a nail color that complements your look, or stick to one of the lovely neutral shades listed above that go with everything.
For more on color coordination, check out our article "Should Lipstick Match Nail Polish?" to see how further matching can enhance your style.
Versatile Nail Color Choices
Your nail polish doesn’t have to match every outfit. Opt for versatile neutrals that complement most clothing. Timeless colors like red, beige, blush pink, nude, gray, cream, white, ivory, silver, and brown work well with any outfit.
Choose a shade that suits your skin tone for a classic look that transitions seamlessly across all your looks.
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