I have this thing where I love having my nails done and painting them all kinds of colors—I’m talking about everything from marine blue, and cherry red to rich, chocolate brown. However, I hate when they don’t match my outfit or aesthetic (for example, I find it irritating when I have beachy blue nails but I’m attending a fancy event wearing a red dress. You get the picture).
There’s only one nail color I can always count on to match every season, outfit, and situation. Okay, not so much a color, but a category of colors. I’m talking about nude nail polish; anything ranging from pinky-white to taupe-brown and beyond. Keep scrolling to see my favorite nude nail designs on Instagram. Then, shop a selection of my favorite nude nail polishes.
All you need for this nail design is a base of nude polish and a perimeter of mocha brown.
If you want a little color, but not a lot of color, go for a minimalist rainbow design.
This graphic black-nude combo is so sleek.
The same goes for this one. And it’s so simple too—just a single stripe down the middle.
If you’re looking for a foolproof design, this is it. Squiggles aren’t meant to be perfect.
This manicure is proof that you don’t need traditional nail polish to create a cool design. Just use decals. These ones are Nails of LA Nail Art Decals ($10).
I love abstract designs. Matte nail polish never looked so cool.
Minimalist nails are easy. You just need white polish and alternating lines and dots.
A combo of rosy-brown, nude, and black nail polish never misses.
I like how this neutral polish has a pearlescent finish.
For a unique and unexpected take on nude nails, opt for this cloud design.
Look closely and you’ll see the subtle ombre glitter.
This is a salon-worthy design you can do at home.
These studded nails are so chic. Who knew I’d be shopping for nail gems and glue on Amazon?
I like these subtle nail gems too.
For a more maximalist vibe, use larger gems like these.
The evil eye manicure is an Instagram-favorite.
I’ll never stop asking for smiley face nail designs at the salon.
I love this half-moon manicure. It makes me think of Lucky Charms.
A French manicure is perhaps the most simple and classic of all nude nail designs.
Described as a rosy taupe, this nail polish is so pretty.
You can’t go wrong with this soft beige-pink color.
This true beige shade deserves more credit (and it’s only $5).
This pinky beige color promises to elongate the look of your nails.
This classic color leans slightly pink. It’s subtle and sophisticated.
