Ava Gilchrist
There are a never-ending amount of nail trends to try, but when it comes to timeless manicures, there are only a handful of popular nail colours worth trying your hand hand.
The top nail trends for 2025 alone have dramatically ranged in shape and style, with everything from shiny cat eyes to 3D nail art proving well-liked within salons.
Indeed, it seems that every single time we open up our social media apps, there's always a new colour or design dominating on our feeds.
And while I always love to veer outside the box and try something new with styling my digits, sometimes all of these fast-moving nail trends can be a little overwhelming. Lately I've been thinking about taking it back to basics and sticking with popular nail colours that we know and love.
Much like when it comes to shopping for clothes, we at Who What Wear UK truly believe that you can't go wrong with the classic, flattering options that are always available. So, I spoke to the specialists to find out exactly what the most popular nail colours are to help you decide what to ask for during your next visit to the nail salon. I promise you'll leave with no regrets.
Trust us, these timeless shades will never go out of style. There's something for everyone, whether you prefer a more natural nail or a fun pop of colour. So, next time you're stuck on what to go for, think of this as your expert-approved guide to the nail colours that will always be popular. Scroll on for all the inspiration you need.
The Most Popular Nail Colours, Listed
1. Classic Red
Beauty Notes: You simply can't go wrong with a classic red, which is exactly why this passionate shade is a popular nail colour. "Red nails never go out of style and are a strong favourite amongst our clients at Townhouse," says Juanita Huber-Millet, nail expert and founder and creative director at Townhouse Nail Salon. "From bright, bold hues to deep berry tones, red is perfect for that effortlessly chic and timeless look."
Shop the Shade:
Dior knows how to do a red nail polish.
Even the bottle is chic.
It would be rude not to get this nail polish, considering the price.
2. Elegant Nudes
Beauty Notes: If you like something a little more subtle, a nude mani is always a winner. We've seen natural-looking nails grow in popularity this year, but nude nails will never go out of style. "Less is more and I like that," says nail expert and celebrity manicurist Iram Shelton. "My favourite nudes are by OPI," says the professional. "The brand's iconic Bubble Bath and Put It In Neutral are my go-to shades."
Shop the Shade:
With clients including supermodels like Vittoria Ceretti and Cara Delevingne, you can bet Shelton's recommendations are A-lister-approved.
If you like a more pink-based nude, Chanel's beloved Ballerina shade is the polish for you.
One of the most popular wedding nail design polish for a reason.
3. Vibrant Blue
I've been seeing bold blue manicures everywhere lately, and I'm not mad about it. Although this popular nail colour is currently a trending shade and at the more vibrant end of the spectrum, it's a pretty solid classic too, as it works all year round. "This vibrant pop of colour is all you’ll be needing this summer," says Shelton. "It’s so beautiful and really lifts your mood."
Shop the Shade:
This nail polish has a stunning shimmery finish.
For a classic finish that's also cruelty free, opt for this Nails Inc. shade.
A timeless shade with a touch of built-in chrome that you'll wear again and again.
4. Polished Burgundy
I always go for a classic burgundy mani during the autumn and winter months. "Burgundy, the eternal colour of allure, has solidified its status as the ultimate timeless favourite," says Huber-Millet. "From runways to red carpets, this rich and captivating deep hue exudes sophistication and elegance. With its enduring appeal, burgundy remains a popular choice, empowering individuals to make a stylish statement that transcends trends."
Shop the Shade:
This nail polish is as sophisticated as a glass of Bordeaux.
A beautiful burgundy shade.
Price shown is member price.
The chicest deep cherry shade we ever did see.
5. Baby Pink
Beauty Notes: Everyone is in their pink era right now across fashion, but baby pink nails have always been one of the most popular nail colours. "It's a feel-good colour," says Shelton, and we couldn't agree more.
Shop the Shade:
How pretty is this pearlescent shade?
A cult-favourite.
Perfect for lazy girls as the polish acts like a four-in-one with a base, treatment, colour and top coat.
6. Forest Green
Beauty Notes: Green nails are a fun option all year round. But, if you want something that never goes out of style, then forest green in particular is the way to go. "Forest green nails are always a winner," says Tinu Bello, celebrity manicurist and senior brand ambassador for Mylee. "Sophisticated and subtle but still super fun, I love using the Mylee Green Velvet polish, which is an enchanting, rich, glossy shade."
Shop the Shade:
Combine a timeless shade with a novel trend with this Mylee cat eye polish.
Hermès can do no wrong.
You'll need an LED light to set this polish, but once it's dry the brand promises 10 consecutive days of chip-free wear.
7. Milky White
Beauty Notes: Milky nails go with just about anything and can add a chic finishing touch to your look. "I prefer a milky nail to a stark white," says Shelton. It's no secret that milky nails are everywhere right now, and we predict they'll be popular for years to come.
This would be a great choice for a summer holiday.
The elusive Marshmallow shade is arguably one of the best Essie colours of all time.
The chicest sheer cream hue.
8. French Tips
Beauty Notes: Ok, so this isn't technically a colour, but we can't remember a time when a French manicure wasn't in fashion. "There are so many versions of French tips," explains Shelton. "Pops of colour are so fun for summer, but when you’re going away on holiday and don’t have outfits planned, it's best to go for a classic French manicure as it’ll go with absolutely everything."
Shop the Shade:
A stunning base for deeper skin tones.
You'll be hard pressed to find a beauty editor or expert who doesn't recommend this Essie polish for the tip.
Delivers a precise line every time.
9. Rich Plum
Beauty Notes: To the untrained eye, the popularity of the rich plum nail colour may go unnoticed, given its similarities to the polished burgundy shade. Yet, the hue has remained a favourite amongst celebrities (see: Margot Robbie at the 2024 pre-Oscars Dinner) and celebrity manicurists alike, making it a salon-worthy contender each time I'm looking to paint my fingertips.
Shop the Shade:
Expect salon-grade pigmentation.
Less than your morning coffee.
Harry Styles' beauty brand Pleasing teamed up with Brazilian-born, Paris-based fashion designer Marco Ribeiro to deliver this delicious açaí berry shade.
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