8 of the Most Timeless Nail Colors of All Time
There are so many nail trends and seasonal colors to try in 2024. From butter-yellow nails to negative space nails and even glazed donut nails, we’re not short of inspiration. It seems that every single time we open up TikTok or Instagram, there’s always a new color or nail art design on our feeds.
I don’t know about you, but sometimes all of these fast-moving nail trends can be a little overwhelming, and lately, I’ve been thinking about taking it back to basics and sticking with the colors that we know and love.
Much like when it comes to shopping for clothes, we at Who What Wear truly believe that you can’t go wrong with the classic, flattering options that are always available. So, I spoke to the experts to find out exactly what the most popular nail colors are to help you decide what to ask for during your next visit to the nail salon. I promise you’ll leave with no regrets.
Trust us, these timeless shades will never go out of style. There’s something for everyone, whether you prefer a more natural nail or a fun pop of color. So, next time you’re stuck on what to go for, think of this as your handy guide to the nail colors that will always be popular. Scroll on for all the inspiration you need.
1. Classic Red
You simply can’t go wrong with a classic red. “Red nails never go out of style and are a strong favorite amongst our clients at Townhouse,” says Juanita Huber-Millet, nail expert and founder and creative director at Townhouse Nail Salon. “From bright, bold hues to deep berry tones, red is perfect for that effortlessly chic and timeless look.”
Shop Classic Red
Hermès
Les Mains Hermes, Nail Polish, Rouge Casaque
Hermès knows how to do a red nail polish.
Gucci
Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish in 025 Goldie Red
Even the bottle is chic.
Dashing Diva
Parisian Red
If you’re a fellow lazy girl, try Parisian red press-ons instead.
2. Nude
If you like something a little more subtle, a nude mani is always a winner. We’ve seen natural-looking nails grow in popularity this year, but nude nails will never go out of style. “Less is more and I like that,” says nail expert Iram Shelton. “My favorite nudes are by OPI. The brand’s iconic Bubble Bath and Put It In Neutral are my go-to shades.”
Shop Nude
OPI
Nail Polish in Bubble Bath
Recommend by Iram Shelton herself.
Chanel
Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in 113 Faussaire
If you like a more pink-based nude, this is the polish for you.
Essie
Nail Polish in Rainwear, Don’t Care
*The* only neutral you could ever need.
3. Vibrant Blue
I’ve been seeing bold blue manicures everywhere lately, and I’m not mad about it. Although this is a trending nail color and at the bolder end of the spectrum, it’s a pretty solid classic too, as it works all year round. “This vibrant pop of color is all you’ll be needing this summer,” says Shelton. “It’s so beautiful and really lifts your mood.”
Shop Vibrant Blue
Essie
Nail Polish in Butler Please
This nail polish has a stunning shimmery finish.
Olive and June
Nail Polish in Blueberry Muffin
For a classic finish, opt for this Olive and June shade.
Chanel
Le Vernis Nail Colour 127 Fugueuse
A timeless shade you’ll wear again and again.
4. Burgundy
I always go for a classic burgundy mani during the autumn and winter months. “Burgundy, the eternal color of allure, has solidified its status as the ultimate timeless favorite,” says Huber-Millet. “From runways to red carpets, this rich and captivating deep hue exudes sophistication and elegance. With its enduring appeal, burgundy remains a popular choice, empowering individuals to make a stylish statement that transcends trends.”
Shop Burgundy
Nailberry
L’Oxygene Nail Lacquer in Noirberry
This nail polish is getting us all excited for autumn.
Another great, inexpensive press-on shade from Dashing Diva. This rich plum berry hue never goes out of style.
Beauty Pie
Wondercolour Nail Polish in Black Cherry Bomb
Price shown is member price.
The chicest deep cherry shade we ever did see.
5. Barbie Pink
I’m not mad at anyone who’s still in their Barbiecore era right now, but hot-pink nails have always been in style. “It’s a feel-good color,” says Shelton, and we couldn’t agree more. Below are our favorite hot-pink shades of the season.
(Image credit: @imarninails)
Shop Barbie Pink
Gucci
Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish in 402 Vantine Fuschia
Zoya
Beachy Brights Neon Nail Polish in Yohanna
We could totally see Barbie wearing this shade.
Dior
Dior Vernis in 663 Désir
Barbie would approve of this hue.
6. Forest Green
Green nails are definitely a fun option all year round, but if you want something that never goes out of style, then forest green, in particular, is the way to go. “Forest green nails are always a winner,” says Tinu Bello, celebrity manicurist and senior brand ambassador for Mylee. “Sophisticated and subtle but still super fun, I love using the Mylee Green Velvet polish, which is an enchanting, rich, glossy shade.”
Shop Forest Green
OPI
Gel Color in Midnight Snacc
A great option for gel nail lovers.
Hermès
Les Mains Hermès Nail Polish in 65 Vert Egyptien
Sally Hansen
Insta-Dri Nail Polish in Chill Out
This fast-drying and budget-friendly formula from Sally Hansen is so majestic.
7. Creamy White
Creamy white tones go with just about anything and can add a chic finishing touch to your look. “I prefer a milky nail to a stark white,” says Shelton. It’s no secret that milky nails are everywhere right now, and we predict they’ll be popular for years to come.
Shop Creamy White
Dior
Vernis Couture Color Gel Shine and Wear Nail Lacquer in 007 Jasmin
This would be a great choice for a summer holiday.
Essie
Nail Polish in Going Steady
The perfect creamy white.
Chanel
Le Vernis Nail Colour in White Silk
The chicest sheer cream hue.
8. French Tips
Okay, so this isn’t technically a color, but we can’t remember a time when a French mani wasn’t in fashion. “There are so many versions of French tips,” explains Shelton. “Pops of color are so fun for summer, but when you’re going away on holiday and don’t have outfits planned, it’s best to go for a classic French manicure as it’ll go with absolutely everything.”
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Nails Inc.
Bright White Mani Marker Nail Pen
This pen will make doing a French mani at home so much easier…
Essie
Ballet French Manicure Kit
…as will this set from Essie.
Manucurist
Nail Art Brush
Delivers a precise line every time.
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.