Like everything else in 2022, things are coming at you with a twist — and that even includes the up and coming polish colors for your nails. Sure, pastels for spring aren’t exactly unexpected, but they are when they come with an edgy spin. We’re talking about taking a pretty purple and turning it into smoky lilac, one of the hottest hues of the season.
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When it comes to spring 2022 nail colors, nail art is still going strong, too, particularly designs with texture. “Matte nails will edge their way back into the mainstream, but we can also look forward to transformative topcoats that add pearl effects, glitter or iridescent washes atop of polish,” says Rita Remark, manicurist and Essie Global Lead Educator. “Think of it like adding a glam filter to your favorite nail color!”
Clean minimalism is another look to keep an eye on — think negative space, nude nail designs, a subtle micro French tip or subtle wavy shapes. Remark says organic nail art also tops the list for spring. “It’s like nails in nature,” she explains. “You’ll see constellations, geodes, watercolor effects, and more top nails this season.”
And as is always the case with beauty, what’s old is new again. This time it’s classic French tips. “No, not a twist on the classic — the classic pink and white manicure is back and not ironically,” Remark says. “Adele and Beyonce are big fans. Those who want to wear it softly can try its American counterpart with a softer eggshell shade on the tips.”
To help you nail the season’s hottest trends, Remark shares the top nail polish colors for spring 2022.
The Top Spring 2022 Nail Colors
Periwinkle
You probably saw this one coming as soon as Pantone picked it. Not only is it easy to find the hue everywhere, it also happens to be perfect for spring. “The Pantone color of the year is super wearable and flattering on all skin types,” Remark says.
Shades to try:
Smith & Cult Exit the Void ($18.00; bluemercury.com)
Deborah Lippmann Iconic Treatment-enriched Nail Polish in Blue Orchid ($18.00; sephora.com)
Smoky lilac
If it’s good enough for Mrs. Bieber, it’s good enough for us. After all, who sets beauty trends the way she does? “This color has been a favorite of Hailey Bieber’s and it’s no wonder why,” Remark says. “This feels like an elevated nude. Lighter skin tones can try essie Lady Like and deeper tones can try Take Me To Thread.”
Shades to try:
essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in Take Me To Thread ($12; target.com)
NAILS INC. Plant Power Nail Polish ($10; sephora.com)
Hot pink
Think pink—with some extra heat! “I credit this color comeback to Machine Gun Kelly and his penchant for hot pink nails,” Remark says. “This isn’t pastel pink or millennial pink. It’s a bright, capital ‘P’ Pink.”
Shades to try:
Lights Lacquer in Donna ($10; lightslacquer.com)
Morgan Taylor Nail Lacquer in Tag You’re It ($10; sallybeauty.com)
Cornflower Blue
Remember what we said about pastels getting an upgrade for spring this season? Now you know what we were talking about. “This bold blue is a really great pop of color for someone who wears a mostly neutral wardrobe,” Remark says.
Shades to try:
OPI Nail Lacquer in Rich Girls & Po-Boys ($11; ulta.com)
Gucci Vernis À Ongles Nail Polish ($30; sephora.com)
Off White
“Not quite white, not quite cream,” Remark says. “It’s a favorite of Selena Gomez and Lady Gaga spent the majority of the House of Gucci press tour in an eggshell white manicure.” Look for a shade with blue undertones for an unexpected pop and glow.
Shades to try:
Jin Soon Kookie White ($18; macys.com)
Olive & June Cloudy Skies ($8.00; oliveandjune.com)
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