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What is it about picking a nail color that feels like you’re making the most consequential decision of your life? Perhaps it’s flashes of a “worst case” scenario going through your mind, where you’ve unknowingly plucked the wrong hue and now you’re stuck with it for at least two to four weeks. When nail decision paralysis hits, simply reach for a universally flattering nail shade and call it a day. Here are the hues professional manicurists say are a guaranteed win every single time.
Neutral Nude
A neutral nude nail polish balances undertones perfectly for a more flattering finish. “It’s a shade of nude that’s not too cool nor too warm, so it won’t appear too harsh,” says Julie Kandaleck, celebrity manicurist and KISS Nails ambassador. (Her fave from the brand is Nude Beach). “I love the gradation of the color because it allows for both a foolproof application and they’re seamless as they grow out.”
White
White is a classic, crisp color that never goes out of style, making it universally flattering no matter your skin tone or personal style, notes Selina Payne-Ferebee, co-founder of the Nail Excellence Awards. She says, “It gives a clean, fresh look while still making a statement.” You can warm it up slightly for a more soft, linen effect. Or opt for a stark bold white if you want something more edgy.
True Red
This shade is fashion’s most enduring power move. “A perfectly balanced red straddles warm and cool undertones, instantly lifting and brightening hands no matter the season,” says professional manicurist Diemai Nguyen. “It’s a confidence color. Slip it on and suddenly even your grocery store run feels like a runway moment.”
Sheer Mauve
Don’t be dissuaded by mauve. It’s the perfect mix of pink and brown, making it not too cool and not too warm for the ultimate flattering nail color. Nguyen says, “The neutral-meets-rosy undertone adapts like a chameleon to your skin tone. It’s perfect for when you want to look put-together without the upkeep of bolder shades.”
Magenta Pink
You don’t have to go with a barely there neutral. Magenta pink is surprisingly flattering across all complexions. “It adds an instant pop of energy that complements every skin tone,” says Payne-Ferebee. “It’s playful yet powerful, and instantly lifts your mood and your look.”
Bold Berry
For another bolder option, try a nail color in the berry family. Rich cranberry, plum, or merlot shades are a gorgeous option year-round—but especially for fall and winter—and complement both cool and warm undertones. If you’re feeling edgy, add a sheer coat of glitter on top.
French Tips
While not technically a color, we’d be remiss to not include the classic French tip in this roundup of universally flattering nail looks. Payne-Ferebee says, “A French manicure is timeless and elegant; a true nail classic. It elongates the look of fingers or toes and gives a polished, sophisticated finish.” Play with the look by going for a super subtle micro French or a modern ombre French.
Pinky Nude
A “your nails but better” look is always a flattering nail color option. “The pinky undertone wakes up the skin, while the neutral base works like magic on every complexion,” Nguyen says. She adds that it also plays brilliantly into the understated quiet luxury aesthetic.
Greige
Greige is another universally flattering nail color due to its ability to combine both warm and cool tones. The gray feels cool and earthy, while beige warms up the hue slightly for a softer effect. It’s also one of the hues that is surprisingly bold while still feeling like a neutral.
