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THE BEST SPRING NAIL COLORS FOR WELCOMING THE WARMER WEATHER
It's safe to say our beauty routines have changed drastically over the past year. From haircuts and color to brows and bikini waxes, pretty much any ritual that requires a salon appointment has either seriously slowed or completely stopped. But perhaps the most notable change of them all is nailcare. Given that lots of salons are still closed, many of us have turned to everything from DIY dip manicures to stickers, wraps, and even press-ons. And while we're hopeful that things will go back to normal sooner rather than later, we realize that the whole at-home maintenance thing will still be a must for a little while longer.
With that in mind, we're getting through it by honing in on the most popular colors of the season. And we have to say: the spring 2021 trend report does not disappoint. The next few months will be all about brighter, happier hues, as usual with the coming of spring—think greens, yellows, pinks, and pastels galore. And with the huge focus on self-care still in full swing, there will also be a big emphasis on nail health and barely-there, minimalist manis.
To ensure we're all armed with most on-trend shades in the game, we've rounded up an algorithm-approved list of the best spring nail colors on the web. Because hey—even if we don't plan on changing out of our slippers and house dresses anytime soon, our digits can still be on point.
Our Method For Finding The Best Spring Nail Colors
To pinpoint which nail colors are trending big this season, we tapped our data-driven algorithm that factors in best-selling buzz, editorial mentions, real user reviews, and more. In other words, the list you see here really is the best of the best. From bold and poppy hues to refreshing pastels, keep scrolling to shop the 10 nail colors destined to define spring.
Next up, shop our 10 Best At-Home Manicure Kits for more top-ranked nail finds. Opening image: @oliveandjune
March 5, 2021
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Tenoverten In Liberty
BEST FOR A MUTED HUE
WHY YOU NEED IT: Remember what we said about greens? We weren't kidding. The muted hue makes this one so on-trend for the coming season, which means you can easily wear it way beyond St. Patty's Day.
ABOUT THE BRAND: Tenoverten's formulas are 8-free, cruelty-free, and vegan, so you can rock this dusty green without feeling guilty.
China Glaze Nail Lacquer In Glamletics
BEST FOR STANDOUT NAILS
WHAT IT DOES: Not only will this blue hue grace your nails with the most gorgeous subtle shimmer, but it also contains a special balance of polymers and resins that make it long-lasting, chip-resistant, and resistant to color and shine fading. Not bad for under $10.
RAVE REVIEW: "This is my favorite color right now. It has some other color components flirting in the background light. I didn't expect to like it, but it completely blew me away. It has a lovely shine, too!"
Chanel Longwear Nail Colour In 745 Cruise
BEST FOR SPLURGING
LOVED FOR: When they say longwear, they mean it. According to the rave reviews, this formula lasts and lasts—even with just one coat and no base.
WHERE TO WEAR: We get that you may not be able to hop on an actual cruise right now, but if this color doesn't scream holiday vacay, then we don't know what does.
Essie Gel Couture Sheer Silhouettes In Lace Is More
BEST FOR A UNIQUE, BARELY-THERE LOOK
WHO IT'S FOR: If you're looking for a way to rock spring's barely-there trend, you've officially found your perfect match. Longer lasting and a little less pink than Essie's iconic Ballet Slippers shade, it makes for the most beautiful minimalist mani. Plus, the gel-like formula provides cushion and shine like no other—no UV light necessary.
HELPFUL TIP: Top it off with Essie's Gel Couture Top Coat for serious staying power.
Essie Nail Polish In No Shade Here
BEST FOR HOT PINK POLISH
WHY YOU NEED IT: We're happy to report that you do not have to wait until summer to sport the brightest shade of pink you can get your hands on. Searches are spiking big time for hot pink nail colors, and this pretty option from Essie's Rocky Rose Collection is one of the most popular on the web.
BEAUTY HACK: For a subtler take on the bright pink trend, try using this shade on your tips for a modern French mani.
Olive & June In Yes Please
BEST FOR BEACH DAYS
LOVED FOR: Aside from the fact that this is probably the best turquoise nail polish out there, it's also a total breeze to apply thanks to the wide, fan-shaped brush. Bonus: you'll definitely fool people into thinking you got a gel manicure. It looks that good.
RAVE REVIEW: "I took one of Olive & June’s free online mani classes last week and used this polish. It is bold and beautiful. I’m on day five, and still not one chip. I’m so impressed!"
Essie Gel Couture In On The List
BEST FOR A POPPY RED
WHY YOU NEED IT: On The List has been around a few years now, but given the fact that it's on our list for 2021, we have a feeling it's good. Reviewers rave about it not just for its stunning coral shade, but also for its high-shine, streak-free formula that lasts for two weeks.
THINGS TO KNOW: Rumor has it that orange and peach-based hues like this one have the ability to make your hands look years younger. Sign us up, please.
Essie Nail Polish In Go Ginza
BEST FOR A CHEERFUL LILAC
LOVED FOR: Don't let this super-light lilac shade fool you. According to reviewers, it applies like a dream—no streaks or excessive coats here.
RAVE REVIEW: "I absolutely love this lavender color! It is so beautiful, and in contrast to other nail polishes I’ve had, it stays on for a long time. The last time I used it, it stayed on for over a week!"
OPI Nail Polish In How Does Your Zen Garden Grow?
BEST FOR A BOLD MANI
WHO IT'S FOR: Straight from OPI's iconic Tokyo collection, this lime green is ideal for anyone who wants to make a statement this season.
BEAUTY HACK: For even bolder results, layer a coat of white nail polish underneath this neon shade.
Essie Nail Polish In Spin The Bottle
BEST FOR AN EVERYDAY NEUTRAL
WHY YOU NEED IT: We're not surprised to find that the number one shade is such a classic. With its slightly pink hue and opaque finish, Essie's Spin The Bottle complements all skin tones, looks great on all nail lengths, and perfectly embodies spring's fresh, feel-good vibes.
BEAUTY HACK: If you're looking to switch things up, this shade looks stunning underneath a coat of glitter nail polish.
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