Nail polish has been around for thousands of years, with the earliest evidence of nail polish dating back to 3000 BC in ancient China. Since then, nail polish has evolved dramatically with new colors, textures, and designs popping up every season. While classic reds and pinks remain go-to shades, nail polish trends are constantly changing as new shades rise in popularity. So what are the hottest nail polish colors right now?
Top Nail Polish Colors
When it comes to the most popular nail polish colors, neutrals and nudes rank at the top. Shades like pale pink, beige, gray, and white have become staple colors in many women’s nail polish collections. These muted tones provide a clean, classic look that complements any skin tone.
True red is another iconic nail shade that never seems to go out of style. Whether in a cool blue-based or warm orange-based red, a bold red manicure makes a statement. Red nails are a quick way to add glamour to any look.
Pastels and other soft shades are also having a major moment right now. Mint green, lavender, baby blue, and peach are playful yet sophisticated options. These feminine colors look fresh and pretty during spring and summer.
Nail art has experienced a major boom in recent years with intricate designs becoming increasingly popular. While French tips remain a classic, nail art like floral patterns, geometric shapes, glitter, and ombre colors are fun ways to decorate bare nails.
Most Popular Nail Polish Colors by Season
Nail polish trends often shift from season to season. Here are some of the most popular nail polish shade options for each season:
Spring
- Pastels – mint, lavender, peach, baby blue
- Nudes – pale pink, beige
- Neons – bright yellow, orange, green
- Sheer pinks
Summer
- Bright colors – coral, neon, cobalt blue
- Nudes and neutrals
- White
- Metallics – gold, silver, rose gold
Fall
- Deeper tones – burgundy, forest green, navy
- Vampy shades – oxblood, plum, marsala
- Muted earth tones – taupe, mushroom, slate gray
- Metallics – copper, bronze
Winter
- Dark colors – black, deep purple
- Jewel tones – ruby, emerald, sapphire
- Glitters and shimmers
- Metallics – pewter, silver
While bright neons and pastels reign during the warmer months, moodier shades emerge once the weather cools down. Deep plums, forest greens, and rich browns come out in fall and winter when nails tend to be covered up more.
Most Popular Nail Polish Finishes
In addition to color, the finish of a nail polish also contributes to its popularity. Here are some of the top nail polish finishes right now:
- Cream – Classic creamy polish with a smooth, opaque finish
- Matte – Flat, non-shiny look
- Gel – Glossy, chip-resistant formula
- Glitter – Small flecks of glitter suspended in polish
- Shimmer – Subtle iridescent sheen
- Metallic – High-shine metallic, foil-like look
- Holo – Rainbow holographic effect
While creams and shimmers remain popular choices, textured finishes like matte and holographic have surged in popularity. Metallics are also having a major moment, with chrome and multi-chrome effects trending.
Most Popular Nail Polish Brands
When shopping for nail polish, the brand matters just as much as the shades and finishes. Here are some of the most sought-after nail polish brands right now:
OPI
OPI is one of the leading professional nail polish companies. Known for its trendy shades and playful names, OPI is a salon favorite carried by major retailers like Ulta and Target. Top selling colors include bubblegum pink Bubble Bath and emerald green Lincoln Park After Dark.
essie
essie is another hugely popular salon brand sold at mass retailers. Their sheer pink ballet slippers is one of their best selling shades. essie is known for quality nail lacquers and on-trend colors.
Sally Hansen
As one of the top drugstore nail polish brands, Sally Hansen offers great quality at affordable prices. Their popular Miracle Gel line provides a salon-like manicure that lasts. Top shades include classic reds and neutral nudes.
China Glaze
China Glaze is the go-to brand for bold, unique shades like neon brights and mood-changing polishes. Their long-wearing formula and trendy colors have made them a top choice for nail polish lovers.
ORLY
ORLY has a huge range of colors from nudes and pastels to dark vampy shades. Their rubberized gripper cap makes application easy. ORLY is sold at Ulta and other major beauty retailers.
Zoya
Zoya nail lacquers are vegan friendly and toxin-free. Their creamy formula lasts long without chipping. Popular neutral shades like Madeline and Claire help round out any nail polish collection.
Most Popular Nail Shapes
In addition to color, nail shape is equally important in nail trends. Here are some of the most sought-after nail shapes right now:
- Round – Classic rounded shape
- Square – Straight across tips
- Squoval – Oval shape with squared corners
- Almond – Oval shape that comes to a point
- Coffin – Straight sides with flat tip
- Ballerina/Coffin – Elongated coffin shape
Round and square shapes remain popular for their symmetry and clean lines. Squoval offers a modern twist on classic shapes. But coffin, ballerina, and almond shaped nails are currently trending thanks to their elongating, slimming effect.
Conclusion
While red and pink polish will likely always remain go-to shades, nail trends continue to evolve. Neutrals, pastels, metallics, and textured finishes have risen in popularity. Seasonal colors provide fresh inspiration while brands like OPI and essie deliver quality lacquers. Coffin and almond shaped nails are on-trend for their slimming effect. But whether bold and bright or muted and neutral, nail polish lets you make a statement and show off your own unique style.
