The Best Non-Boring Nude Nail Polishes for the Holiday Season

Smith & Cult Nailed Lacquer in Forever Fades Fast ($18)

Forever may fade fast, but this nail polish certainly doesn’t. Smith & Cult’s unconventional nudes, like this pale rose, are entirely memorable without demanding too much attention. Alert the masses: We finally have proof that brilliant shine pairs well with bold color and buildable coverage. As a bonus, the beautiful bottle begs to be featured in your bathroom and not hide out in the medicine cabinet. 

Sally Hansen Color Therapy in Glow with the Flow ($8)

Sally Hansen Color Therapy polish is one smooth operator: The formula coats nails flawlessly for a barely there tint that we want to keep all season long. And if that weren’t enough, this paint actually protects and strengthens nails with the addition of argan, primrose and açaí oils to ensure color that doesn’t merely cover, but also rebuilds. So skip that base coat and pour on polish for extremely nourished nails.  

OPI Nail Lacquer in I Pull the Strings ($11)

Wave goodbye to the stress that comes from a streaky lacquer. OPI’s I Pull the Strings is sheer perfection. Inspired by the holiday film The Nutcracker and the Four Realms out this week, this regal rose gold glitter is anything but garish. Swipe on a clear coat or layer for a more dramatic look. Either way, we dare you to not become enchanted.

Butter London Delightful Darlings Collection ($36)

With names like Sugarplum and Angelic, Butter London’s Delightful Darlings kit sports six cozy colors that ooze holiday comfort. We’re particularly fond of Sweetheart, a rosy mauve that has us at high levels of holly and jolly. The eight-free formula delivers indelible shine without formaldehyde and friends, and inspires thoughts of fireside affairs, flannel PJs and cold-weather reads. 

Dior Vernis Gel Shine & Long Wear Nail Lacquer in Fantasmatic ($28)

For a long-wearing look that doesn’t shy away from shine, look no further than Dior Vernis. This polish is packed with both major pigment and gloss for a finish so smooth, you won’t need a chaser. Add in a wide brush that even lacquer skeptics can use, and you’ve got the perfect fall paint.