I don’t know about you, but whenever I go to the nail salon, I always say I’m going to switch things up and go for a brightly coloured design, yet I always go back to neutral nails once I’m there. For me, you just can’t go wrong with these subtle shades. Not only are they universally flattering, but they go with every single outfit and work all year round.
Therefore, I decided to round up some of my favourite neutral nail designs that I believe will never go out of style. These timeless manicures and nail art ideas are perfect for all of the minimalists out there, and I’ll definitely be referring back to this article myself before my next appointment.
Even the experts agree that neutral nails are a great way to go. “A minimalist, chic and clean-looking manicure paired with a clear topcoat or sheer pink colour gives the appearance of well-maintained, healthy nails,” says Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director at Townhouse. “A couple of my favourites include Bubble Bath by OPI and Lait Fraise by Nailberry.”
You don’t have to go to the salon to achieve these looks, either. If you like to do your nails at home, Huber-Millet recommends investing in a good nail polish and a nail art pen to help recreate more intricate designs. Once your nail art is dry, finish things off with a top coat to give a glossy and long-lasting finish.
Now that you’ve got the information you need, keep on scrolling for some serious nail inspo…
If you want to mix up your French manicure, why not opt for a light brown base colour and a white tip? We think this looks so chic.
This abstract nail art is classic but fun at the same time.
If you want to keep things simple, a textbook French mani is the way to go.
For those of you who want a pop of colour, opt for a nude base coat and apply a small dot of bright blue polish just above your cuticles.
How cool is this studded nail design? It’s the perfect way to make a subtle statement.
Gold detailing is so timeless, and this mani is giving us all of the quiet luxury vibes.
Glossy nails always look good. To get this look at home, invest in a high-shine top coat.
Have you ever heard of a micro French mani? Well, now you have. Opt for a nude base and contrasting black lines for the ultimate fashion statement.
Another gorgeous black and peachy-nude combination.
Sometimes the simplest looks are the most powerful.
This clever design softly fades from nude to black. We like to think of it as balayage, but for your nails.
A sparkly French tip is perfect for party season but also works year round.
Try mixing pink and brown shades for a beautiful neutral finish.
This “barely there” manicure will have your nails looking so healthy.
For a more retro feel, give this brown swirl design a go.
Nude chrome perfection.
This embellishment is so subtle yet so stunning.
A nude nail polish is an essential, and if you want a more pinky shade, I’d recommend this option by OPI.
For a slightly darker neutral colour, Chanel has you covered.
This tool from Mylee will help you to create Insta-worthy nail art from the comfort of your own home.
If you like a French mani, this pen will be your new best friend.
This top coat will help to give that salon-worthy finish.
A cuticle oil will keep your nails looking healthy.
