Does anyone else freeze up at the nail salon when you're picking a manicure or pedicure color? It feels like the most high stakes decision for anyone who is deeply beauty-obsessed (slowly raises hand), especially in the summer when open-toe sandals are the footwear du jour. It's why I, and pretty much every stylish person I know from coast to coast, tends to reach for a nude nail polish for a fool-proof summer pedicure.
You've likely seen "princess nails" taking over your TikTok FYP over the last few weeks, aka a barely-there, milky pink shade that leans slightly nude. It's essentially the prettiest, minimal, neutral polish that helps elongate your fingers and keep your hands looking as elegantly royal as possible (hence the name). That's the vibe I'm after with my summer nude pedicure, because sometimes your brain needs a break from perusing the endless nail polish colors at your local salon. Plus, the look will compliment with every summer shoe, every warm weather outfit, and every manicure you want to wear this season.
Need more convincing that a nude pedicure is the perfect summer nail polish option? Keep scrolling for the 18 most stunning lacquers, from light to deep nude, to shop right now, and prepare for the compliments to roll in.
Best Light Nude Pedicure Colors
A quick dry polish is always a winner for your summer pedicure, and this light sandy shade is just perfection.
A hint of pink helps this chic nude polish pop against lighter skin tones.
This color enhancing polish adds a healthy pink glow to any nail color and is gorgeous on any skin tone.
Don't be afraid to add a little sparkle to your nude pedicure! This holographic polish gives the neutral look a little extra spice for the summer.
Extend the life of your at-home pedicure for eight days of chip-free wear with this cult-favorite formula.
For a nude polish that's as pleasing to look at on your toes as it is in the bottle, reach for Hermès.
Best Medium Nude Pedicure Colors
A sultry buff pink shade is a must for any at-home nail kit, and this long-wear shade will never fail you.
This gorgeous creamy tan shade is just begging to accompany your favorite summer sandals.
The only thing that could make this beige polish better is a pair of Chanel sandals to go with it. You deserve it.
Deborah Lippmann is a master of nudes and this sultry tan shade is one of the best in her polish collection.
For a true neutral medium nude, this formula has your summer pedicure covered.
Look for a dusty rose shade for a medium nude option with slightly more pink tones. This non-toxic formula is a fashion girl favorite.
Best Deep Nude Pedicure Colors
A flushed deep nude shade is so stunning for your summer pedicure.
Your toes deserve a hint of shimmer with your nude pedicure this season.
This is the perfect rich nude with warm undertones to compliment your summer glow.
Skip the salon and DIY you gel pedicure at home with the gorgeous nude polish.
Pretend you've escaped on a tropical vacation with two coats of this rich nude polish on your fingers and toes.
For a high shine nude mani that's perfect for deep skin tones, this quick dry formula has you covered.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
