Spring Nail Colors to Try If You're Not into Pastels

March 4th, 2018 at 5:00pm
Spring Nail Colors That Aren't Pastels
Almost-Pink Spring Nail Colors

PHOTO: @avayvay

Spring brings a lot of great things—higher temperatures, blooming flowers, and the opportunity to break out your warm-weather wardrobe. And while many people opt to bust out their most colorful pieces in celebration of the season, some of us just aren’t as into the typical spring colors as others—yes, we’re talking about pastels. Don’t get us wrong—they look amazing on everyone and they’re in style now more than ever, but we’re here to tell you there are other options if Easter egg shades don’t float your boat. Case in point: These gorgeous nail colors we spotted on members of our community. With softer shades, they still feel like enough for the newfound sunshine, but they’re not quite as in your face as baby blue and lavender can be. So without further ado, keep reading for the six spring nail colors we’re loving this season with nary a Millennial pink in sight.

Almost-But-Not-Quite Pink

Slightly lighter than pastel pink, this shade will give you hints of pastels (it is spring, after all) without the full effect. To get this shiny look, apply two coats of Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in Matter of Fiction ($12) to bare nails, and finish with one coat of Essie Gel Couture Top Coat Nail Polish ($12) on top.

Light and Shiny Beige

If you’re incorporating more color into your wardrobe now that it’s spring, a light beige nail gives a clean look that won’t distract from your look. Opt for rounded edges to add some flair to the neutral hue, and swipe on two to three coats of OPI Nail Lacquer in Samoan Sand ($11).

Gray with a Hint of Lavender

Not ready to give up your winter shades? A pretty gray infused with purple brings out the brightness of spring while maintaining a more subdued effect. Work your nails into a square with a filing board to add some definition to their shape, and then paint on two layers of Nicole by OPI Nail Lacquer in Taupe-Less ($8). 

Champagne-Tinted Tan

If you want a spring color that’s not a pastel, a dark Champagne-like hue with pink undertones is soft and professional. For an option with high-shine, opt for Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color in Beige/Khaki ($28).

Soft White

Though it may not be the first thing that comes to mind, white is a great spring color when you want a pop that’s not too loud or expected. To make a statement, go for longer nails with a few coats of Julep Nail Polish in Brigitte on top ($14).

Matte Mauve

 This mellow color is great for a brunch date, spring weddings, or anything else the season throws at you. To recreate this look, layer two to three coats of Deborah Lippman Nail Polish in Modern Love ($19). Want to give it an unexpected twist? Swipe on an extra coat of OPI Matte Top Coat ($11) to take away the shine for a sophisticated effect.

What spring nail colors are you loving this season? Tag us in your looks on Instagram @cfashionista!

Featured photo by @laura.craffey.

This article was originally published on May 7, 2018 and has since been updated.

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