You really can’t go wrong with a neutral nail color. The hues work with just about any outfit and are perfect for any occasion. They’re really not meant to stand out or make a statement, but they do a good job of enhancing your look and adding some polish to it (pun intended).
My favorite neutral of the moment is taupe. I know, I know, a lot of people say that neutrals (including taupe!) are boring, but I’m here to make a case for the versatile color. The reason why taupe is my go-to right now is that it’s the perfect balance of being a neutral, yet it still having some interest. Unlike a totally nude polish, taupe is a bit darker and can have tones of purple, mauve, or gray in some shades. It’s just a nice step up if you want the neutral look, but looking for a little bit more oomph. And I don’t think it looks as good on your fingernails as well as your toes.
Seriously, try it for your next manicure, or when you’re looking for a new neutral. Take a look at some great shades below.
This creamy taupe is a traditional version of the neutral hue.
Chanel’s New Dawn looks like it has a tinge of pink. The formula is enriched with bioceramics and ceramides to strengthen and nourish the nails.
OPI has just the best punny names. And of course, its nail polishes are pretty great, too. Over the Taupe is a darker taupe shade that gives your nails some warmth.
For a gel-like manicure at home, try this hue from Sally Hansen. You get eight days of shine and color here.
Chinchilly is one of my go-tos. I think it’s the perfect combo of taupe and gray.
A brownish-nude taupe, this nail color is ultra flattering on so many skin tones. The Gel Lab Pro line has formulas that are infused with 10 active ingredients, like evening primrose to prevent moisture loss; biotin to stimulate keratin production; and green tea extract to protect nails from damage.
Orly’s Down to Earth is a warm, creamy taupe that has brown tones. The breathable formula is chip- and peeling-free and infused with argan oil, pro-vitamin B5, and vitamin C.
This gray-taupe polish has a glossy finish and is highly-pigmented.
China Glaze’s Head to Taupe has a subtle pink-purple tint, so it’s a softer taupe option.
Côte’s polish looks almost like a baby pink. Choose this one if you want a taupe that’s a lighter shade, not a darker.
For a beige-pink polish, try this one from Essie.
But if you’re looking for a darker hue, try this deep shade from Londowntown. It’s espresso-like and delivers high shine and long-wear.
OPI’s Taupe-less Beach is a purple-tinged taupe—it’s definitely a unique neutral.
Here’s another pink-taupe color combination. And this particular formula from Sally Hansen has a built-in base and topcoat and dries in 60 seconds.
A cuticle oil with nourish your nails and help their growth. This one from Cuccio is a cult favorite on Amazon with 100,000 ratings and 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Tweezerman’s kit is easy to bring with you on the go. It contains a fingernail clipper, stainless steel mini pushy and cleaner, stainless mini cuticle and hangnail clipper, and pocket nail file.
Gently take care of your cuticles with this treatment. It loosens and removes dead or dry skin in the cuticle area.
This topcoat is a go-to for so many beauty insiders. It leaves a shiny, glossy, and protective finish and it dries in just a minute.
Your hands and nails need some moisturizing, too. This cream contains antioxidant grape polyphenols and organic fair trade shea butter to keep the skin soft.
