We're All About No-Fuss Nail Polishes—These Are Our Faves
As much as we love over-the-top statement-making moments, sometimes simple is best. And the best thing about going with something a little bit more subtle and subdued? It goes with just about anything—from outfits to occasions. One way we love to go the simple route is with our nail polishes.
Sure, it's fun to try some unique colors and eye-catching nail art, but for everyday moments or when you have an amazing outfit that you don't want to distract from, a simple, uncomplicated nail polish works best. It can be classic, elegant, chic, and effortless all at once. And the cool thing about going with a simple look is, most of these colors will never go out of style. So, you can potentially find your signature, to-to polish when you try out these hues.
Need some inspiration? See some of our favorite colors below.
Nudes
1. Olive and June Nail Polish in CDJ
This creamy neutral works with all skin tones. It's bound to be a mainstay in your nail polish collection.
2. Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Origandi
This pinkish-nude can almost blend into certain skin tones. The formula is enriched with bioceramics and ceramides to strengthen and nourish the nails.
3. Essie Nail Polish in Wild Nude
4. Revlon Nail Enamel in Romantique
Revlon's Romantique is like a mix between nude, brown, and pink. The formula is chip- and fade-resistant.
5. Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Nail Color in Let Nature Sing
A light almond color, this polish is almost like getting a gel manicure at the salon. It delivers a high-shine finish and has ingredients to promote healthy nails.
Light Pinks
6. OPI Nail Polish in Mod About You
If you don't want to go the nude route, a light, sheer pink is a pretty and simple hue, too. This high-gloss polish provides up to 11 days of wear.
7. Essie Nail Polish in Ballet Slippers
It doesn't get more classic and elegant as Essie's Ballet Slippers. I mean, if the Queen of England is a fan, you know it's classy.
8. Jinsoon Nail Polish in Nostalgia
A peachy pink, Jinsoon's Nostalgia polish is almost like a step above a neutral.
9. NCLA Nail Lacquer in Rose Sheer
Both creamy and sheer, this polish is delicate, pretty, and works with any skin tone.
10. Àuda.B Vegan Nail Polish
Àuda.B's pretty pink nail polish is a vegan formula that's almost gel-like.
Grays
11. Nails Inc. Plant Power Nail Polish in What's Your Spirituality
Grays are also a great neutral option that is still very subtle. This medium-dark, taupe gray is so versatile and works for just about any season.
12. Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish in Greyfitti
Almost like a dove gray, this polish is another gel-like formula that has staying power. It lasts up to eight days.
13. Olive and June Nail Polish in AW
Olive and June's AW is a cross between a gray and a brown, so it's a good option if you want a warmer-toned polish.
14. OPI Nail Lacquer in Dawn of a New Gray
A light, cloudy gray, this polish from OPI is both creamy and warm. The formula is naturally sourced and provides up to seven days of wear.
15. Essie Nail Polish in Chinchilly
Essie's Chinchilly is another classic and beloved polish. It's the perfect "greige."
Darker Hues
16. Olive and June Nail Polish in JJ
A "simple" nail polish doesn't mean it has to be a lighter shade. You can go for a sophisticated dark hue, too. This cinnamon brown polish from Olive and June has just the right amount of intrigue without being too flashy.
17. Jinsoon Nail Polish in Coquette
A deep and dark red is a classic, too. It's not as in-your-face as a vampy red, but it's still got that saturated color.
18. Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color in Rhythm
This inky, navy blue is a nice change if you are tired of black polishes.
19. OPI Nail Lacquer in Less is Norse
20. Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish in Onyx-pected
Black goes with just about everything right? Sally Hansen's polish delivers a gel-like, long-lasting finish.
Next: Celeb Manicurists Say These Are the Best Nude Nail Colors for Every Skin Tone
Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.
-
I'm Kicking Off 2025 With an Elite Beauty Routine—30 Finds I Can't Wait to Start Using
My wallet won't know what hit it.
By Maya Thomas
-
This At-Home Gel Mani Kit Is All Over Instagram, so We Tried It
Honest thoughts (and before-and-after pics) ahead.
By Kaitlyn McLintock
-
This Summer-Coded Mani Looks 10 Times Chicer in the Winter—Here's Proof
I know you're stylish if I see you with these nails.
By Jamie Schneider
-
This Trending Nail Color Looks Even More Elegant on Your Toes—Angelina Jolie's Pedi Is Proof
I'm taking screenshots for my next appointment.
By Jamie Schneider
-
Calling It: This Nail Design Trend Is Set to Be Everywhere This Season—I Found 10 Unique Takes
They're so stunning.
By Shawna Hudson
-
No Nail Polish Remover? No Problem—Manicurists Share the Best Tips (and What Not to Do)
This intel is vital.
By Jamie Schneider
-
Megan Fox's "Deep Red Jelly" Manicure Is the Coolest Way to Wear Holiday Nails
Edgy and untraditional.
By Kaitlyn McLintock
-
I Never Thought I'd Try Acrylic Nails, But This Manicurist Guide Has Me 100% Convinced
Now you know.
By Maya Thomas