Last Updated on May 15, 2023
As much as I love watching bright nail art videos on TikTok, I also love a nude nail polish moment.
Selecting the right shade of nude that complements my skin tone can be a challenge, and I’m sure many of us can relate to this.
Nude nail polishes are definitely not a one-size-fits-all, and fortunately, there are fantastic options available that cater to a full range of skin tones.
After some thorough research, I’ve discovered that the key to achieving a chic and sophisticated nude nail colour is much like finding the right foundation shade for your skin. It involves opting for a shade that’s either one tone lighter or one tone darker than your natural skin tone.
Many nail techs advise against matching your nail polish to your skin tone too closely, as doing so may result in the undesirable ‘mannequin hands’ effect.
For those with a medium complexion, opting for pale and creamy nude tones is a good move. These shades work wonders in highlighting the skin’s natural tan undertones for a flattering nail shade.
Like any other aspect of fashion and beauty, there are no hard and fast rules to follow when choosing your perfect nude nail colour. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a shade that makes you feel happy and confident.
Whether you want to go lighter, or darker, or experiment with different undertones, the choice is yours to make. After all, fashion and beauty are all about expressing your individuality and showcasing your unique personal style.
But if you’re looking for help, we can do that. Keep reading to discover your perfect shade.
READ MORE: From Mint to Bottega, These Are the Best Green Nail Polishes You Can Buy Right Now
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Nude Nail Polish For Fair Skin
If you have fair skin, go for a pink, sheer shade of nude. Steer clear of beige tones, and only opt for white tones if you have pink skin tones.
Les Mains Hermès15ml, £42, Hermès – buy now
Elegance, £16, Nailberry – buy now
New Romantic, £5.59, Rimmel – buy now
Mademoiselle Nail Polish 13.5ml, £8.99, Essie – buy now
Nude Pink, £7.99, Urban Graffiti – buy now
Nude Nail Polish For Medium Skin Tones
Medium or olive-skinned? Lucky you! Opt for café au lait or taupe shades to suit your skin tone. Pink or peach tones also work well.
Rouge Dior Vernis nail polish 10ml, £27, Dior – buy now
Sorry Im Latte 14ml, £8.95, China Glaze – buy now
Masterpiece Xpress Nail Polish Nude’itude 12g, £5.99, Max Factor – buy now
Mini Nail Color Creme – Sapporo 5ml, £5.44, Mavala – buy now
Barefoot in Barcelona, £8.58, OPI – buy now
I’m Passionate, £5, Revolution – buy now
212 Annabel Rose, £26, Gucci – buy now
Sand Tropez Nail Polish 13.5ml, £8.99, Essie – buy now
Nude Nail Polish For Dark Skin
Dark skin tones should avoid nude nail polishes with pink or white undertones, opting instead for a shade with orange undertones.
Caught In The Nude Nail Polish 14ml, £7.90, Nails.INC – buy now
Breathable Nail Polish Nudes 18ml, £9.45, Orly – buy now
Gelly Hi Shine Nail Paint, £3.99, Barry M – buy now
Nail Polish Nudes 15ml, now £9.95, OPI – buy now
Gel Lab Message In A Bottle Collection 15ml, £18, Debroah Lippmann – buy now
READ MORE: 6 Red Nail Polishes That Look Gorgeous On Fair Skin
Bare Attack 14ml, £5.82, China Glaze – buy now
SuperStay 7 Days Nude Nail Polish, £4.79, Maybelline – buy now
Clothing Optional 13.5ml, £8.99, Essie – buy now
