There is something so satisfying about nude nails. They look clean, fresh and very elegant. And those with a penchant for mani-based experimentation may deem nude nails boring, but don't let the barely-there look food you, there are so many ways to wear nude nail designs. They can be long or short, square or round, chrome or clear, bedazzled or left perfectly plain, the list goes on and on. With all that's on offer in the nude nail department, devotees can often spend a long time choosing what nude nail look to go for on the salon floor, flicking through different iterations of beige, peach, taupe and blush on that mesmerising wheel of painted false nails until eventually hitting on the nail shade that will see them through the next week or so (or more if they're opting for gels). So, if you've been in that position for and you're trying to get your head in the game ahead of your next manicure appointment, you've come to the right place. Scroll on for all the information, professional advice and inspiration pictures you need to choose your next nude manicure nail polish shade in mere minutes.
Nude nails have amassed over eight million posts on Instagram. The trend is so popular that it's now routine for air-dry nail polish brands and big names in the gel arena to launch entire collections devoted to nude nail shades. Take cruelty-free brand Peacci's Nu Nudes collection - a nude nail polish set featuring 12 crowd-pleasing flesh-tone shades. Genius.
As for my go-to shade? It's the work of So.Shell salon (below). I usually opt for a grey-toned nude that doesn't emphasise my red under-tones. But how to choose the best nude nail polish for your own unique skin tone?
Meet the experts
Yana Galiyeva and Maria Sharova, the owners of top London salon So.Shell.
'Choosing the best nude polish for your skin tone involves considering undertones,' explains nail experts Yana Galiyeva and Maria Sharova. ’If you have warm undertones, opt for nude shades with peach or yellow undertones. For cool undertones, go for nudes with pink or beige undertones. Testing shades against your skin can help find the most flattering match.'
Nude nails have been around for a long time and this year they're more popular than ever. And 2025 trends-wise, think nail art - abstract shapes and minimalistic lines that give your look a design-led edge. Already inspired? Scroll through our edit below of the best nude nails designs to try now.
Best Nude Nail Designs 2025
1. Nude Lipgloss Nails
High-shine nude lipgloss nails can be worn alone for a fresh, classy and put-together look. It's 2024 and the demand for natural minimal nails show no sign of waining. And when they're this good we're not exactly surprised.
Image credit: @tombachik
2. Nude Wedding Nails
Harriet Westmoreland uses the varnish BIAB 18 to achieve this wedding ready manicure. If your salon doesn't stock this exact shade then ask for a sheer, rose toned pink to mimic the look. It's a classic for a reason.
Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland
Best peach toned nude
www.boots.com
The perfect peachy nude does exist.
Pros
- Plant-based
- Doesn't chip easily
Cons
- Won't last as long as gel
3. Nude Marble Nails
How cool is this marble effect? Tones of white, pink and nude will emerge from a set as delicate and intricate as this, the effects of which are guaranteed to impress. Add a touch of sparkle for full on glam.
Image credit: @nails.and.spa
4. Minimalist Nude Nails
Queen of nude, barely-there nails Mateja Novakovic will show you how it's done. Her perfect nude set are a dreamy choice to wear come rain or shine - ask for pink with a sheer, white undertone.
5. Milky Nude Nails
An elevated nude if you like. Milky nails are an unwavering craze for good reason. They are soft, delicate and sees a seamless marriage between pink and white, without borders. Ask for a short, circular manicure.
Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland
6. Iridescent Nude Nails
The sheen on this set will be a sure crowd pleaser. Simply pair a chrome powder on top of a pink-toned nude for an effortless look. Opt for a gel polish over traditional to ensure longevity.
Image credit: @Iramshelton
7. Nude French Nails
We challenge you to find a better pairing than the French mani with a nude base. Timeless and classic, no matter the trends on your explore page, this style will always reign supreme. Tips yellowing? If you've used gel polish then swipe a cotton pad soaked in nail varnish remover over the top - it'll refresh the colour.
Image credit: @saskiafenwick
8. Short Square Nude Nails
Minimalist and classy, this is our go-to manicure when we can't make up our mind - and for when we face the devastation of a broken nail. Short, square shapes feel the epitome of elegant - just don't forget a generous dose of cuticle oil every night.
Image credit: @paintedbyjools
9. Nude Nails With Stars
This beautiful celestial manicure is the epitome of classic with a twist. Starry nail art looks best on longer nails.Acrylic extensions, for example, allow for more nail space and more room for bespoke art work. Consider nail stickers to get the look until you perfect your skillset.
Image credit: @houseofnaf
10. Nude and Brown Nails
Brown nails are having a moment right now, and when teamed with a nude design it's not hard to see why. Add a long, square shape to the mix and you'll have a look that's as elegant as it is sexy. Consider this your cue to screenshot ahead of your next appointment.
Image credit: @nailsbylauren.o
11. Nude Nails With Flowers
These delicate daisy designs are a beautiful addition to spring - the pop of colour make this set Easter nail ready. Your salon can no doubt work magic here, but consider tapping into nail stickers if you're attempting to recreate the look from home - you just can't go wrong.
Image credit: @klawsbysonia
12. Long Nude Nails
Elegant and lengthening, this beautiful pink-meets-nude mani plays well with acrylic extensions or a BIAB finish. No time to pop into the salon? Consider acrylic look stick-on nails which can be the next best thing - they've come a long way since your teenage years and are much more realistic. Could this even inspire your next birthday set? We think so. And so does Kylie Jenner beause these are her nails.
Image credit: @jenny.jennys
13. Nude Nails With Glitter Tips
More is more with this dazzling take on the French manicure. The pretty, sheer nude, teamed with a sparkling micro-tip makes this one a party season go to. The colour pairings are endless. Plus this almond acrylic shape is incredibly flattering.
Image credit: @klawsbysonia
14. Nude and Red Nails
If you look closely you'll see this set is adorned with some delicate holly nail art. It's never too early for Christmas nails where we're concerned, but if you're not quite ready (fair enough) then play with the combination of nude and red on its own - it's a beautifully modern manicure.
Image credit: @glitterbels
An iconic nude
www.lookfantastic.com
We're willing to bet you've requested OPI's iconic Bubble Bath more than just a few times in the salon. And good news, as you can get your favourite polish at home too.
Pros
- Flattering on all skin tones
Cons
- Takes 3 coats for an opaque finish
15. Nude Nails With Pearls
Another modern French manicure, this delicate look is perfect for brides to be - it's subtle, but oozing with all the necessary bridal wow-factor. Again, keep your mani going with regular applications of cuticle oil all over the nail bed. A little goes a long way.
Image credit: @setsbysenia
16. Nude and Burgundy Nails
This adorable manicure with bow detailing taps into the coquette trend - we love the deep wine hue paired with the subtle nude. Gems add the perfect, glistening finishing touch and we predict the compliments will come rolling in.
Image credit: @vivianmariewong
17. Pale Pink Nude Nails
The perfect pink does exist. Ask for a pale, baby pink hue and don't be afraid to ask your manicurist to apply a few different options to each nail. This means you can compare the various undertones against your skin. Most salons will be happy to do so, and can even give their advice on which colour works best for you.
Image credit: @bonails.institut
18. Nude Nails With Hearts
Fancy a fun nail design that doesn't err on the kitsch side of manicures? Elegant, muted hearts make for a seriously Valentine's Day worthy mani - without so much of a hint of red or pink overkill. Nude nail inspiration? Sorted.
Image credit: @nailsxmina
19. Nude Nails With Cherries
...and if going kitsch is your thing then look no further. A red French manicure with glittering cherries makes for a nail look that's as sexy as it is playful. If you're a fan of this look then we predict your style oozes cool girl.
Image credit: @ceeclaws
20. Ombre Nude Nails
Ombre nails have quickly become the easiest way to add a fun spin to your nail game - it's become a top spring nail trends of 2024. While it works well when teamed with pastel tones like yellows, lilacs and pinks, it also works well as a gradient French design, too.
Image credit: @bycheznails
21. Nude and Blue Nails
Who says nude needs to be boring? Trust us when we say this does not need to be the case. Simply adding a pop of colour to the mix makes a serious statement - like this starry blue design. There's no denying that this creative set is giving serious Euphoria vibes.
Image credit: @nails_by_annabel_m
22. Natural Nude Nails
Minimalist in tone but maximalist in length, this set is both elegant and feminine. We love this sheer, glossy polish with its peachy, high-shine top coat. It really transcends the trends.
Image credit: @nails_by_annabel_m
23. Nude Coffin Nails
Coffin nail designs AKA Ballerina nails feature a square tip instead of a pointed tip like the stiletto nail does. Nude nails with white lines also look good when teamed with the coffin shape. Ask your artist for a graphic, fine line finish.
Image credit: @jet_set_beauty_nails
24. Nude Chrome Nails
Hailey Bieber would approve of these subtly pearlescent chrome polish. The trend is as strong as it ever was, and manicurists are forever churning out new iterations. While chrome polish was traditionally all out silver, these days its all about nude with a faint, silvery undertone. Dreamy.
Image credit: @kenzonailstudio
25. Square Nude Nails
Celebrity manicurists like Iram Shelton, Harriet Westmoreland and Julia Diogo all covet natural looking nail designs with a square tip. Dreaming of long nail beds like this set? Ask your nail artist to pay extra attention to cuticle work to achieve this elegant look.
Image credit: @woman_citystyles
Best nude for dark skin tones
mylee.co.uk
Hema free (minimising the chance of any reactions) Mylee's birthday suit errs on the deeper side of nude.
Pros
- Long lasting
- Hema free
Cons
- Need to buy an LED lamp separately
26. Yellow Nude Nails
Forget mustard and marigold, this season is all about the muted yellow nail. Consider it a nude with just the faintest hint of sunshine. Plus, if Iram says it's in, then it's most definitely in - she's directly responsible for a sparking a myriad of nail trends the world over.
Image credit: @Iramshelton
27. Nude Nails With Diamonds
Understated yet glamorous all at once, this is the perfect manicure for a special occasion - it proves that diamonds will never go out of style. Finish with a glossy top coat for unrivalled shine. Oh, and ensure your nail glue is super strong.
Image credit: @Iramshelton
28. Nude Nails With Black Tips
Spruce up a simple nude base with a coloured tip - we love the contrasting black which makes for a more modern and fun take on the French mani. Even the most conservative of nail polishers may be swayed by this one.
Image credit: @thenailloungeipswich
29. Nude Nails With Red Heart Design
Take inspo from this look and add a few statement red hearts for a cute, kitsch finish that doesn't feel too out-there. Love the tapered almond shape? If you're not blessed with long, strong nails then consider acrylic extensions or BIAB.
Image credit: @thenailloungeipswich
30. High Shine Nude Nails
Short, square nails and a thin coat of a pinky nude polish is the epitome of timelessness - you just can't go wrong. And keep hands feeling soft and supple with a hyaluronic infused hand cream - pop it in your handbag and apply on the go.
Image credit: @Iramshelton
31. Brown Nude Nails
You're familiar with milky pink nails but how about milky brown? Search for brown nails is sky-rocketing right now and this pretty manicure takes nude-marbled nails to a whole new level. Extra long extensions add a touch of drama.
Image credit: @_nailsbycg
Best milky nude
www.lookfantastic.com
Milky pink nudes? Sold. This one is a sheer pastel pink with an iridescent shimmer.
Pros
- Beautiful sheer colour
- Award winning formula
Cons
- Won't last as long as a gel
32. Nude Nails with Nail Art
Add a celestial touch with a smattering of gems and star designs. Consider this one a party season go to that you can mix and match to any outfit. Whether green gems, blue gems or pink gems, the possibilities are endless.
Image credit: @_nailsbycg
33. Nude and Gold Nails
Step it up a gear and line the edge of your nail with gold foil, keeping the centre of the nail as nude and bare as possible. It makes for a dreamy contrast and an ultra expensive look that's bound to turn a few heads for all the right reasons.
Image credit: @Iramshelton
34. Nude Bridal Nails
Elegant, romantic, feminine, and timeless, this pink-toned nude set by celebrity manicurist Harriet Westmoreland makes for the perfect wedding day manicure. Less really is more sometimes, and this is the perfect example.
Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland
35. See Through Nude Nails
See through nude nails can be achieved with traditional varnish and some gel polishes. Ask your manicurist for something that lets your natural nail colour shine through - without being streaky. Two coats should suffice.
Image credit: @Iramshelton
36. Gothic Nude Nails
Gothic and chic? Why of course! Long, claw shaped acrylics make this drippy black and nude design really pop while the addition of a nail charm adds serious cool points.
Image credit: @Iramshelton
37. Grey Nude Nails
This grey, shell-toned set is perfect for those with darker complexions and cooler undertones. Consider it a white-meets-nude hue that's softer and less harsh than the brighter more traditional tone of white. It's a look we're adding to our Pinterest board.
Image credit: @paintedbyjools
38. Glazed Nude Nails
Okay, we'll admit it - we're still aboard the glazed doughnut nail bandwagon. But when they're this chic there's no excuse not to be. Why not add a delicate nail design for an extra touch of cuteness? Daisy nail art could work well here.
Image credit: @paintedbyjools
39. Soft White Nude Nails
Forget harsh white nails - add a touch of nude for a softer, more chic take just like Julia Diogo. Use a glass nail file to achieve this short, neat shape without fraying. And, as ever, don't forget the cuticle oil and hand cream - it can make or break a look.
Image credit: @paintedbyjools
40. Nude and Neon Nails
Add a splash of colour to a muted set with a neon tip. It's a look that TikTokers and pro-manicurists have been creating in preparation for the sunnier summer months. In need of holiday nail inspiration? Well need no more.
Image credit: @_by_shelley
41. Nude and Green Nails
An unexpected combo? Maybe. But we're absolutely sold. Green and nude combined with a dreamy high-shine finish ticks serious trend boxes. And as for those sharp, almond acrylics? We're calling it the mani of the season.
Image credit: @kuypernailart
42. Glitter Nude Nails
This is cute, fun, and just the right amount of sparkle to keep things exciting but still business.
Image credit: @kuypernailart
43. Brown Shade Nails
Brown hues are having a moment and they’re great for all year round! Combine warm brown nude nails with French tips in different hues for a cool mismatched look that’s totally on point. Exhibit, A, below.
Image credit: @kuypernailart
44. Pearl Nude Nails
White and gold are one true pairing. This set is reserved for special occasions, the pearls take this set to the next level. We’d suggest going to a professional to achieve this look.
Image credit: @kuypernailart
45. Sheer Natural Nails
The ‘no-makeup’ look but for nails, these highlight your own nails’ natural beauty. A real nude.
Image credit: @nailzkatkat
46. Hyperrealistic Nude Nails
These are hyperrealistic nails are made to look like real nails, this was achieved with using apres long sculpted almond tips.
Image credit: @sheenailss_
47. Dotted Nude Nails
This set is so easy to DIY, have a thin brush to hand and simply just dot.
Image credit: @fridaselkirk
48. Fun French Tip Mani
Nude nails don’t need to be plain as you can tell from this article. Mix it up with funky symbols like hearts, stars, etc, on a nude base custom to you.
Image credit: @thebeautybar_dbn
49. Nude Gradient Nails
Ombré but in a different way subtle and soft but, this one’s a crowd-pleaser, reach for pastel colours a few shades a part.
Image credit: @oliveandjune
50. Glitter Nude Negative Space Nails
A reverse manicure, is a bold and unexpected way to add twinkle to your nude nails - keeping it edgy but still elegant.
Image credit: @betina_goldstein
Best Nude Nails FAQs
What are the best nude nail designs for short nails?
Minimalist chic wins: think delicate lines and subtle gradients. Keep it clean and elegant.
How do I find the right nude polish for my skin tone?
Match your undertones! Warm tones need peachy nudes, cool tones suit rosy shades, and neutral tones can rock almost anything.
What’s the difference between sheer, glossy, and matte nude nails?
Sheer nails are very light you can almost see the whites of your nails, glossy nails are shiny and matte polishes look velvety.
How can I make nude nails look more interesting?
To make nude nails less boring, French tips are always a good bet. You can also add minimalistic designs like thin lines, geometric shapes, or tiny dots.
What are the best nude polishes for different undertones?
It’s always a good tip to hold the bottle to your veins. If your veins look blue or purple (cool undertones), go for pinks, berries, and cool-toned nudes. Green veins (warm undertones) suit peachy nudes, corals, and warm reds, while neutral undertones (a mix of blue and green) work with both warm and cool shades.
Can nude nails work for all seasons?
Absolutely! Light, cool nudes for spring/summer, and richer, warmer hues for autumn/winter.
How do I prevent nude polish from looking streaky?
Thin, even layers are key. Don’t overload the brush, and let each layer dry thoroughly before applying the next.
What nail shapes work best with nude designs?
Nude nails work with absolutely everything, our personal favourites are almond and square.
Are nude nails work-appropriate?
Of course! I don’t know if you could get more professional.
What’s the best way to maintain a nude manicure?
Be sure to infill your nails when you see your natural nail poking through, regular top coat touch-ups and cuticle oil are essential.
Main image Instagram @iramshelton and @matejanova
So.Shell has just opened in Battersea Power Station
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Junior Beauty Editor where she covers all things beauty, health and wellness.
