Without a Doubt, These Neutral Nail Designs Will Always Look Classy

I don't know about you, but whenever I go to the nail salon, I always say I'm going to switch things up and go for a brightly coloured design, yet as soon as the colour wheel is thrust into my hand, I panic. What if the tone doesn’t suit me? What if it clashes with the summer dresses I’ve just pulled out of storage? Or what if I find myself sick of the shade after a week of wear? A nail colour may not seem all that important but, if you’ve ever found yourself filled with regret as you step out of the salon door, you’ll know my fear.

So, I tend to gravitate towards neutral nail looks - think pinky white tones, creamy nudes and comforting warm browns - soft nail colours that are universally flattering, go with a multitude of outfits and look great year round.

In the first instance these shades may sound boring but I promise you, they’re anything but. When done right, neutral nails not only look incredibly elegant but they can also offer a wearable route into some of the biggest nail trends too. Just take a look at some of this year's most popular manicures, like skin tint nails and the milky mani, for proof. Although both rely for the most part on neutral shades, they still feel elevated and exciting offering a fresh approach to neutral tones.

And, while these are two ways to approach neutral nails, they’re by no means the only designs worth adding to your nail inspo board. Neutral nail art looks are also a great option for those who want something a little more playful while neutral toned French tips offer a timeless look that’s always in style.

And, it doesn’t stop there, to see some of my favourite neutral nail designs just keep scrolling - now there's no need to be ashamed when we ask for Essie's Mademoiselle for the third time in a row.

The Best Neutral Nail Designs:

1. Classic French

If you want to keep things simple, a textbook French mani is the way to go.

2. Abstract Art

This graphic nail art is classic yet fun at the same time.

3. Dainty Dots

For those of you who want a pop of colour, opt for a nude base coat and apply a small dot of bright blue polish just above your cuticles.

4. You Stud

How cool is this studded nail design? It's the perfect way to make a subtle statement.

5. Delicate Metals

Gold detailing is so timeless, and this mani is giving us all of the quiet luxury vibes.

6. Think Shine

Glossy nails always look good. To get this look at home, invest in a high-shine top coat.

7. Duo Tips

Have you ever heard of a duo French mani? Well, now you have. Opt for a nude base and contrasting black lines for the ultimate fashion statement.

8. Soft Swirls

Another gorgeous black and peachy-nude combination.

9. Nude Simplicity

Sometimes the simplest looks are the most powerful.

10. The Balayage Mani

This clever design softly fades from nude to black. We like to think of it as balayage, but for your nails.

11. Disco Tips

A sparkly French tip is perfect for party season but also works year round.

12. Neutral Moons

Try mixing pink and brown shades for a beautiful neutral finish.

13. More Dots

Another great example of a nude micro dot manicure.

14. Coffee and Cream

For a more retro feel, give this brown swirl design a go.

15. Nude Chrome

Shimmery nude perfection.

16. Easy Embellishment

This embellishment is so subtle yet so stunning.

17. Glassy French Manicure

This square shaped French Manicure is, in my opinion, the chicest of neutral nail looks.

18. Ombre Fade

For a soft nail look, try this neutral ombre fade.

19. Go Nude

This "barely there" manicure will have your nails looking so healthy.

20. Toffee Swirls

This swirly nail art look is a work of art.

21. Starry Eyed

This look proves nail art and neutral shades go hand in hand.

22. Mix and Match Mani

As neutral nails rely on classic colour ways, there's no need to stick to a single design. Mix and match French tips with metallic details for a playful neutral look.

23. Polka Dots

Why have just one dot when you can go full polka print?

24. Mocha Chrome

This slightly darker shades looks oh-so-elegant with a chrome top coat.

25. Soft Beige

This neutral mani sits between a soft pink and warm beige tone.

26. Fine Lines

Graphic lines turn neutral tones into a statement look.

27. Luxe Leopard

Leopard print is a neutral right? This muted set proves yes.

28. Love Hearts

These cute white hearts make the perfect pairing for a nude base.

29. Mixed Metals

Silver and gold tones elevate this neutral nail look.

30. Starfish Nails

The chicest neutral holiday manicure.

Get the Look at Home:

Next Up: Lavender Nails Are Trending, Chic and Sofia Richie-Approved

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.