These Are the Best-Selling Nail Polish Colors, From OPI to Essie
Nail trends come and go, but we all have that one polish shade we return to again and again. Whether it’s a goes-with-everything neutral or a party-ready glitter, the right nail polish is like a beloved recipe or worn-in tee: comforting, versatile, and always there for you when you need it. (And yes, I think glitter can be comforting. Don’t @ me.)
Often, our signature nail colors tend to have universal appeal, and best sellers are born. We were curious just how the top-selling polishes compared from brand to brand, so we reached out to 17 of our favorites to find out what bottles they can barely keep on shelves. And while some shades are the stuff of beauty legend at this point (ahem, Essie Ballet Slippers), more than a few are completely unexpected—and likely new to you. Keep scrolling to find out if your signature polish made the list and possibly discover a new mani shade along the way.
1. Àuda.B The First Lady
2. Essie Ballet Slippers
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the announcement of their engagement in November 2017. Markle reportedly wore Essie Ballet Slippers for the occasion.
3. Orly Turn It Up
4. OPI Bubble Bath
This classic pink is the most popular of the iconic brand’s hundreds of shade ranges. But don’t worry: Fellow faves like I'm Not Really a Waitress and Lincoln Park After Dark locked up spots in the top 20 too.
5. LeChat Hologram Diamond
6. Ciaté Sun Switch Marshmallow
The Sun Switch transforming nail polish in action
7. People of Color Walk of Fame
8. Nails.Inc Naked in Neon Quad
9. Sally Hansen Insta-Dri White on Time
This three-in-one polish has a base coat and topcoat built right in. (And interestingly, the top seller for the brand's Miracle Gel line, Get Mod, is also a bright white.)
10. Revlon Cherries in the Snow
First launched in 1953, Cherries in the Snow is the oldest shade in Revlon’s collection—as well as this list—and is still one of its top sellers. (And the matching lipstick is just as iconic.)
11. Côte No. 10
12. Static Nails Pink Is My Kink
The bold pink sold out in just 12 hours, the fastest of any of the brand’s polishes to date. And that cheeky name? It's inspired by Ashnikko's song "Daisy."
13. See My Toes Happy Baby
14. Nailtopia Green Goddess
15. Pear Nova Dianna Boss
16. SpaRitual Engaged
17. CND Wildfire
Up next: 10 Editors on Their Favorite Classic Nail Polish Shades of All Time
Lindy Segal is a freelance writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. She's been in editorial for over eight years as a social media manager and writer covering beauty, fashion, and lifestyle at Glamour and People. These days, in addition to Who What Wear, you can see her byline at places like Harper's Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Ipsy, and WeWork. Both a skincare obsessive and a minimalist, she keeps her routine short, sweet, and effective—and she doesn't go a day without sunscreen. She's also deeply passionate about sustainability, and she strives to recommend products she truly believes are worth the investment.
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