We Found the Best Neutral Nail Colors for Every Skin Tone

According to Kandalec, if you're looking for an opaque shade, don't try to match it to your skin. "That will make you look like a mannequin," she says. "Instead, look for a shade that is visibly lighter or darker than your skin tone." 

On the other hand, if you're on the hunt for a sheer shade, it's best if the shade more closely matches your skin tone. "Use the web to search for an on-hand swatch of shades," suggests Kandalec. "Search the 'brand name + shade name + swatch' ( '+ dupe' works well too) to see it on different skin tones, then take your pick."

Some common mistakes to avoid when choosing the best neutral nail color for your skin tone is picking a shade that's too ashy or overly taupe. "I generally prefer tones that have a bit more of a peachy, warmer undertone, as they're easier to wear and are universally flattering," says Kandalec. Another mistake? Forgetting to incorporate a light glimmer or shimmer from time to time.

Sip your tea with prim and polished tips with this semi-sheer pink nude that's mademoiselle chic. 

"This is a beautiful dusty mauve," says Kandalec. "I use it on my client, Jessica Chastain, very frequently."

Another great, opaque pinky shade that'll flatter fair skin tones—without looking washed out. 

For a little shimmer in your life, use this iridescent hue. This adult version of glitter lacquer won't take you back to grade school, but instead adds a little pizzazz to your fingertips. "This is a soft, tan creme color with a fine, holographic sparkle," says Kandalec.

"This is a sheer, buildable shade that has just a touch of opalescence," says Kandalec. "It's perfect for a quick swipe to look polished before heading out the door." 

For those of you that usually gravitate towards pale pinks, try this almond taupe that is a neutral version of your standard pastel. A tan shade that stuns on olive skin tones, it's also plant-based, 16 free, and 100 percent vegan.

"This truly works for everyone, especially medium and olive skin, though, with its cool-based neutral tones," says Kandalec. 

The name doesn't lie—this barely-there hue is the perfect nude for tan skin tones. "It's a timeless, earthy classic shade for dark skin tones," agrees Kandalec. When you don't want to fully commit to a bold shade, sweep this one on for an instant pick-me-up. 

If you love wearing muted colors in your clothes, this delicate pale purple is the perfect complement. "This is a warm, opaque shade for medium skin tones," says Kandalec.

"This is the shade that I used on Viola Davis as she accepted her Oscar for Fences," says Kandalec.

Stark white may not be your thing, but this pinky nude creme color is a happy medium that looks great on dark skin tones.

This warm toffee shade is just as satisfying as its drink counterpart.

This is a deliciously rich chocolate brown shade that will look stunning on darker skin tones. 

If you're on the hunt for a neutral nail shade with a hint of shimmer, this pick is ideal for any skin tone.

For a stronger mauve shade for fair skin tones, reach for the OPI Nature Strong Nail Lacquer in For What It's Earth. We love that this polish is vegan, cruelty-free, and 9-free, too.