22 Classic Nail Looks That Never Go Out of Style
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Whether you need a breather from intricate nail art or just love a clean and simple look, classic nail looks are always a good idea. Think: French manis, pretty pinks, and deep espresso browns. These are the looks that will never go out of style and look gorgeous. Even more, they suit any occasion or ensemble, and they tend to feel clean and polished, especially when you’ve just gotten them done.
“Classic nail looks are great because they give off a timeless, polished look,” says manicurist Mazz Hanna. They are also typically easier to achieve and lower maintenance than most nail trends, which makes them practical and versatile for any occasion.” We consulted Hanna and celebrity nail artist Sarah Chue to learn more about classic nail looks to try now and always.
Meet the expert
- Mazz Hanna is a manicurist and the CEO of nail artist talent agency Nailing Hollywood.
- Sarah Chue is a celebrity nail artist to stars like America Ferrera and Bryce Dallas Howard.
To inspire your next clean and classic mani, sift through 22 gorgeous options, below.
Creamy French
@rachelsuenails / Instagram
“French nails are a timeless and elegant option,” says Hanna. This look was created using Bio Seaweed Gel in the shades Milkshake and White. For a more subtle result, switch out the white shade for a milky one like Frosting.
Chocolate French
@rachelsuenails / Instagram
“Classic French nails are pink and white, but the options are endless when it comes to color combos for modern French,” says Hanna. This look features a yummy chocolatey brown polish.
Sheer Pink
thehangedit / Instagram
“Sheer pink nails are a go-to for so many occasions,” says Hanna. “It’s one of those your-nails-but-better types of looks. You can never go wrong.” The short length keeps things simple and functional, while a longer nail shape would add slightly more drama.
Bubble Gum Pink
@lolo.nailedit / Instagram
Light pinks are a perfect classic look. This poppy bubble gum shade is probably as bright as you can go before leaving “classic” territory. If pink isn’t your jam, a light lavender polish would look just as pretty.
Vampy Red
@julieknailsnyc / Instagram
Dark, vampy nails will always be in. This look features a deep red wine shade that’s perfect for fall and winter but honestly looks gorgeous any time of year. Add a glossy top coat to really capture the richness of the color.
Simple Accent
@thehangedit / Instagram
Proof that nail art can, in fact, be classic. “Accent nails are a great classic option for those who want a subtle touch of nail art,” says Hanna. “It’s a great way to add a fun twist to your look if you prefer an understated look.”
A Little Sparkle
@gossipandgloss / Instagram
If you want a classic look that sparkles, going for a super finely milled glitter is key. This look features a mauvey pink topped with a super fine silver shimmer.
Rouge Tips
@chuenails / Instagram
Celebrity nail artist Sarah Chue created this look using Addiction Tokyo polish in the shade Guilty Apple along with the brand’s Top and Base coats. The look is “putting a twist and adding some color to the classic French,” says Chue.
Glazed Donut Nails
@pinkbunnynailz / Instagram
Glazed donut nails started off as a trend, but they aren’t going anywhere. White chrome over a nude, milky polish creates a neutral nail with a subtle glow that’s perfect for everyday wear, your wedding day, and everything else in between.
Peachy Orange
@lolo.nailedit / Instagram
Especially once we get into the warmer months, bright oranges and corals are a great option. This peachy shade has a bit of white in the formula, allowing it to veer more pastel than neon.
Baby Pink
@klawsbykailuna / Instagram
There’s nothing like a soft baby pink for a feminine touch. It fits any occasion and looks good on nails of all shapes and sizes. For something even more subdued, try a light jelly shade of pink nail polish.
Glossy Nude
@gossipandgloss / Instagram
Ever-classic, nude is the perfect polish to choose when you want a simple look. This manicure features a glossy, semi-sheer nude and perfectly manicured cuticles. Book an appointment at your go-to salon to recreate it.
Bright Red
@gossipandgloss / Instagram
Go bright with a classic red manicure. This one features a red with orange undertones, so it reads fun and friendly. It’s a great choice for the warmer months.
Sparkle Accent
@thehangedit / Instagram
A little twinkle is always a welcome addition to a manicure. Instead of going for a chunky glitter, you can keep the look a bit simpler with a sparkle-inspired design. The monochrome color story helps to keep the look feeling simple.
Milk Bath Nude
@lolo.nailedit / Instagram
If you want to use a mix of colors in your manicure, the key to keeping it classic is making sure the shades are tonal and similar. This look features the shades Almond Milk (middle), Cashew Butter (index finger, pinky), and Roasted Chestnut (thumb, and ring finger) from Sally Hansen.
Short Square French
@gossipandgloss / Instagram
Short square nails are having a moment—even Meghan Markle is a fan. This style is a no-brainer for days when you head to the salon and just can’t make a decision on a color. For a little variation, add white chrome powder on top or substitute a creamy white base color.
Pinky Beige
@melanated.mani / Instagram
This pinky beige color is great if you want an opaque nude polish. It’s got the smallest hint of color while still remaining neutral. The best part? As your nails grow, you won’t be able to tell.
Espresso Brown
@melanated.mani / Instagram
This deep, espresso brown is gorgeous for a classic nail that makes a statement. It’s a super rich, neutral brown that gives big ’90s vibes. For even more drama, opt for a long almond nail shape.
Double Line French
@julieknailsnyc / Instagram
If you want to switch up a French tip just a bit, it’s great to accent the design with small half circles either below the smile line of the tip or at the base of the nail, creating a half-moon design.
Subtle Ombré
@melanated.mani / Instagram
Instead of going for the stark line of a French manicure, you can emulate the classic look in a softer way with an ombré. This look fades from a milky white tip to a sheer nude base.
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