You May Say This Nail Color Is Boring, But I Beg to Differ—Here's Why
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.
Olive & June Nail Polish in RP
Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color in New Dawn
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 Nail Lacquer in Over the Taupe
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.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish in Shade To the Taupe 205
For a gel-like manicure at home, try this hue from Sally Hansen. You get eight days of shine and color here.
Essie Nail Polish in Chinchilly
Chinchilly is one of my go-tos. I think it's the perfect combo of taupe and gray.
Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Nail Color in Fashion
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 Nail Lacquer in Down to Earth
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.
Smith & Cult Nail Lacquer in Doe My Dear
This gray-taupe polish has a glossy finish and is highly-pigmented.
China Glaze Nail Lacquer in Head to Taupe
China Glaze's Head to Taupe has a subtle pink-purple tint, so it's a softer taupe option.
Côte Nail Polish in Neutral Taupe No. 125
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.
Essie Gel Couture in Taupe of the Line
Londowntown Lakur Enhanced Colour Nail Lacquer in Natural Charm
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 Nail Lacquer in Taupe-less Beach
OPI's Taupe-less Beach is a purple-tinged taupe—it's definitely a unique neutral.
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Polish Lacquer in Taupe Priority
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.
Nailcare Products for Your Next Manicure
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.
Next: WWW Editors Shared Their Favorite Minimalist Nail Colors That Go With Everything
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.
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