I Want My Nails to Look Classy and Elegant—These Colours Fit the Bill Perfectly

When it comes to nail colours, I personally like to play it safe. During the winter months, I’m a CND Shellac in Oxblood disciple (thanks, Monikh, for encouraging that burgundy nail addiction), but once spring and summer come around, I’m all about those understated neutrals. And I know we're still a few months away, but I'm more than ready to embrace a lighter manicure. Call me a minimalist, but I’ve never been one for fancy nail art or a constant rotation of different colours. Not because I'm not a fan—some of the recent looks I've seen on Instagram almost had me reconsidering—but it's mainly because I’m just awful at doing my own nails and unfortunately don’t have the patience or budget to visit the salon every week. I like my manis to work hard, and that’s exactly what a neutral does.

Whether it’s a creamy beige, chic taupe, milky white or pale pink, neutrals are arguably the most versatile nail colour you can choose. They’re guaranteed to go with everything you own, ensuring you avoid any awkward colour clashing if your wardrobe includes prints or brights. Plus, whether you’re wearing a cute dress for brunch with friends, or just popping out to get milk in your sweats, a neutral nail just adds a certain understated class to any look, don’t you think?

Luckily for me, neutrals are a huge nail trend right now (and really, when aren’t they?). As long as it’s opaque and glossy, it'll do the trick. Although it might seem obvious to go for a nude that matches your skin tone, it’s often more flattering to actually go one shade darker or lighter, for a more intentional look. Alternatively, a bright white is a great way to make a statement with your nails whilst still keeping them looking crisp and clean.

The difficulty is often in finding the perfect shades, so we’ve done the hard work for you. Here we’ve rounded up some of our favourite neutral nail inspiration alongside some of the best-selling neutral nail colours to suit all skin tones. Keep scrolling.

11 Neutral Nail Colours for 2026

1. Milky White

A milky-white nail polish is the chicest way to give nails a sheer and shiny upgrade.

2. Soft Beige

Choose a shade similar to your natural skin tone to give your hands and nails an elongated effect.

3. Vanilla Crème

This warm-toned vanilla shade works well for all skin tones.

4. Ballet Pink

We love the combination of a neutral shade and a matte finish.

5. Pearly Shine

Add a metallic top coat or request a chrome finish to mix things up.

6. Glossy Blush

A high-shine, glossy neutral is such a timeless manicure look.

7. Petal Pink

A soft pink shade will cancel out any discolouration in your nails, giving them a fresh, healthy appearance.

8. Strawberry Jell-O

We totally get that a bright pink manicure may not be your thing, but a sheer, cool-toned pink looks great on everyone.

9. Cool Taupe

This soft, milky taupe is the kind of shade that makes for an excellent matching mani-pedi.

10. Mocha Brown

A great choice for autumn and winter, chocolate-brown nails never go out of style.

11. Strawberry Milk

Milky nails have been trending for a while now, but they're certainly not going anywhere. To re-create this look, mix a white-pink and clear shade to create a translucent finish.

Shop the Best Neutral Nail Polishes