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If the mere prospect of pastel nails brings you out in hives, you’re not alone. Popular with some, for others, pastel colors will always be synonymous with Easter and hated bridesmaid dresses. Still, it is possible to sport pastel nail color without feeling like your six-year-old self. Unlike more traditional pastels, modern iterations can actually be fun—especially when paired with square or squoval nail shapes or a sharp almond edge to offset their softness. And, while they’re not just for spring, there’s something about the warmer air that ignites an urge to replace deep burgundy shades with colors that are lighter and brighter.
What are pastel nail colors?
Any light color with a creamy softness to it (think lilac, baby pink and powder blue) is a pastel. Some will be sheer, others more opaque. The linking factor is a light, almost milky quality that sets them apart from vivid neons and vampy dark shades typically associated winter nail colors. These soft shades are perfect for occasions like bridal or baby showers.
How can you make pastel nails modern?
“Pastel nails feel effortlessly modern and luxe when the shape is sleek and the finish is flawless,” celebrity manicurist Michelle Class explains. “A soft almond or a short squoval (square-oval) shape keeps them elegant, while a high-shine finish or pearlised-glazed effect will make them feel fresh.”
How to pick the right pastel for you?
Look at your skin’s undertone, says Class. “Cool tones suit lilacs, baby blues, and aquamarines, while warm tones glow with peaches, pinks, and buttery yellows. Try not to think of pastels as just a color choice, it’s a way of elevating the everyday nude nail, and the perfect choice as we head into spring.”
Sky blue
A joyful pastel that inspires thoughts of long, languid afternoons somewhere in the Med.
Classic pastel pink
A go-to color no matter the season, this soft pastel pink grows up, thanks to the nail’s elongated almond shape.
French butter
If yellow feels like too much for the whole nail, stick to the tips only.
Lilac
Probably the most divisive of pastel colors, but if you love lavender, you really love lilac. This milky version is an update to the classic.
Pistachio cream
A green that sits between matcha, sage and pistachio, the white undertone brings it into modern pastel territory.
Ballet pink
A touch lighter than a classic pastel pink, this shade is brilliant for hiding grown-out cuticles.
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Powder blue
This velvety blue is subtle yet spring-ready.
Pastel milk
Devotees of O.P.I’s Funny Bunny, listen up: You can hop on the pastel train and keep your beloved white nails. This sheer double cream shade will see you through spring to summer and beyond. It can also be achieved with Meghan Markles “Monticeto Manicure” shades.
Lavender Milk
Powder blue’s lilac-hued cousin, pastel lavendar-milk is all about a hint of purple.
Pink haze
Slightly darker, this cloudy pink is a great entry point for people dipping a toe into pastels.
Candyfloss
This pink is vivid, but the semi-transparent finish keeps it in pastels territory.
Mint
A soapy bluey-green, this mint color is a fresh take on pastel nails.
Pastel assortment
Not ready to go the whole hog? Experiment with delicate designs on some nails, like this mix-and-match French.
Pastel rainbow
Can’t decide? Blend a bunch of pastel colors together.
