When you wear a polish that you love, every time you peek down at your hands, you’ll end up with a smile. “Wearing a pretty nail color can make you feel confident and empowered, which promotes positivity,” says manicurist and Nailing Hollywood CEO Mazz Hanna. “Having freshly manicured nails adds an extra touch of beauty and elegance to your overall look.”
To ensure you have colors you fall head over heels for, we’ve rounded up 20 pretty nail colors here. Reach for them whenever you need a mood boost or just a polish change.
999 Rouge
“A pretty nail color that is well coordinated with your outfit can add a pop of color and personality to your overall look,” says Hanna. “For example — opting for a red nail with a more neutral colored outfit can add an eye-catching pop of color that still looks elegant and polished.”
Glazing Over Duo
“For me, pretty nail colors are very feminine, like shades of pink, purple, and glitter,” says celebrity nail artist Fleury Rose. She loves this set, as it combines her faves into one.
Beloved
I have been reaching for this iridescent hot pink non-stop since I got it. It’s become my go-to pedicure color.
Violet Byzantin
This purple polish from Hermès is deep and mysterious. But, thanks to its warm red undertones, the color remains inviting.
Mimosa
Hanna is a big fan of Mimosa, the perfect creamy yellow. It’s bright and light, giving serious sunshine-in-a-bottle vibes.
Matter of Fiction
This is another polish that Rose adores. “I love to feel girly, and cute,” she says, so a baby pink is the way to go.
Aster Family
This bright purple has a hint of pink in it — making the color electric.
Spring Fling
This coral-y pink polish is infused with finely milled champagne shimmer, giving it an ethereal, iridescent finish.
Unapologetic Icon
A crisp white polish is a classic and simple way to breathe life into your manicure.
Macaron
This pretty pale pink is a creamy, jelly polish — crelly, if you will. So while it has a touch of white for a milky finish, its also sheer.
Alluring Charm
Hanna loves this pretty milky pastel pink. It’s a shade that’s so pale it nearly reads white. It’s perfect for a touch of color.
Fairy Winkle
Fairy Winkle is the perfect whimsical shade of blue. It’s a pretty periwinkle pastel that stuns on its own or sings in a nail art look.
Banana Split
If you want a super light and creamy yellow polish, Banana Split from Lights Lacquer is the way to go.
Creekside
Creekside is a blue shade I always love. It’s light and airy, reminding me of a clear-skied day.
Baroque
Give your nails a wash of shimmery color with Baroque. It’s a sheer, pink iridescent polish that gives a chrome-like effect.
Popeline
Popeline is a juicy bright pink polish that features blue shimmer for a look with some subtle dimension.
Sweet Sixteen
Living up to its name, Sweet Sixteen is a super glittery pink polish. It’s fun, bold, and super girly.
Victoire
For a red that’s not super intense, go for this cranberry shade from Dior. It’s rich and bold without being loud.
Ultraviolet
This color sits right between pink and purple, creating a yummy polish that’s fun and punchy.
Lilac Shimmer
Get a gorgeous reflective look with Lilac Shimmer. It gives each nail a stunning purple metallic finish with just a few swipes of polish.