Without a Doubt, These 17 Neutral Nail Designs Will Always Look Classy

I don't know about you, but whenever I go to the nail salon, I always say I'm going to switch things up and go for a brightly coloured design, yet I always go back to neutral nails once I'm there. For me, you just can't go wrong with these subtle shades. Not only are they universally flattering, but they go with every single outfit and work all year round.

Therefore, I decided to round up some of my favourite neutral nail designs that I believe will never go out of style. These timeless manicures and nail art ideas are perfect for all of the minimalists out there, and I'll definitely be referring back to this article myself before my next appointment.

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(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)

Even the experts agree that neutral nails are a great way to go. "A minimalist, chic and clean-looking manicure paired with a clear topcoat or sheer pink colour gives the appearance of well-maintained, healthy nails," says Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director at Townhouse. "A couple of my favourites include Bubble Bath by OPI and Lait Fraise by Nailberry."

You don't have to go to the salon to achieve these looks, either. If you like to do your nails at home, Huber-Millet recommends investing in a good nail polish and a nail art pen to help recreate more intricate designs. Once your nail art is dry, finish things off with a top coat to give a glossy and long-lasting finish.

Now that you've got the information you need, keep on scrolling for some serious nail inspo…

The Best Neutral Nail Designs:

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(Image credit: @nailartbyqueenie)

If you want to mix up your French manicure, why not opt for a light brown base colour and a white tip? We think this looks so chic.

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(Image credit: @nailartbyqueenie)

This abstract nail art is classic but fun at the same time.

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(Image credit: @themaniclub)

If you want to keep things simple, a textbook French mani is the way to go.

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(Image credit: @buffcs)

For those of you who want a pop of colour, opt for a nude base coat and apply a small dot of bright blue polish just above your cuticles.

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(Image credit: @pink_oblivion)

How cool is this studded nail design? It's the perfect way to make a subtle statement.

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(Image credit: @buffcs)

Gold detailing is so timeless, and this mani is giving us all of the quiet luxury vibes.

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(Image credit: @themaniclub)

Glossy nails always look good. To get this look at home, invest in a high-shine top coat.

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(Image credit: @nailartbyqueenie)

Have you ever heard of a micro French mani? Well, now you have. Opt for a nude base and contrasting black lines for the ultimate fashion statement.

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(Image credit: @nailartbyqueenie)

Another gorgeous black and peachy-nude combination.

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(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)

Sometimes the simplest looks are the most powerful.

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(Image credit: @nailartbyqueenie)

This clever design softly fades from nude to black. We like to think of it as balayage, but for your nails.

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(Image credit: @themaniclub)

A sparkly French tip is perfect for party season but also works year round.

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(Image credit: @pink_oblivion)

Try mixing pink and brown shades for a beautiful neutral finish.

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(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)

This "barely there" manicure will have your nails looking so healthy.

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(Image credit: @buffcs)

For a more retro feel, give this brown swirl design a go.

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(Image credit: @themaniclub)

Nude chrome perfection.

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(Image credit: @iramshelton)

This embellishment is so subtle yet so stunning.

Get the Look at Home:

Next Up: Lavender Nails Are Trending, Chic and Sofia Richie-Approved

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

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Grace Lindsay
Junior Beauty Editor

Grace Lindsay is the junior beauty editor at Who What Wear UK. At the age of 18 she decided to train as a makeup artist before going on to study english and media at Goldsmiths University. It was during that time that she explored her love for journalism by interning at a small beauty start-up based in Shoreditch. Since then, she has worked at a number of publications including Marie Claire and Hello!, where her love for all things beauty continued to grow.

As Who What Wear UK's junior beauty editor, she covers everything from the latest hair trends to the stand-out makeup products of the season.