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In the world of wild and wonderful nail designs, it sometimes feels incredible to go back to the basics. We're taking nude nails, simple nails, and monochrome no-design nails. In a world where the clean girl aesthetic has made a raging resurgence, a basic, no-frills nail look is the perfect cherry on top.
“Plain nails are great for when you’re in between sets and want a little break from designs,” says California-based nail artist Pitrizz Gangcuangcoz. “I definitely see the clean girl aesthetic coming back—so anything from like an OPI ‘Bubble Bath’ pink to a milky white. I feel like milky/sheer colors give a nice effect versus an opaque solid color.”
No matter the season, these are clean and classic looks that truly go with everything. See below for InStyle’s favorite plain nail looks.
Almond Shaped Clean Girl Nails
The almond shaped nails pair perfectly with the no-color nude base. The shiny effect on the nails makes for a look that will stand out—by blending in.
Aura Points
Aura nails are all the rage—and for a reason. This gentle pink color fades into a white base, making for a radiating yet simple look.
French Ombré
This ombré look combines that blended ombré look we love, with the simplicity of a French manicure. The nude base seamlessly blends into the white tip.
Shiny Gray Skies
Nothing says chic like a simple coat of gray nail polish. Add a shiny top coat for a simple but effective statement nail.
Desert Chic
This gorgeous terracotta color is simple, clean and has a wonderfully warm look for fall.
Stop it, We’re Blushing
For those who want to keep it plain, but cannot let go of their signature pink: try this blush on for size. The almost-nude pink is perfect for year round.
Short and Sweet
These short, square nails look clean and elegant with a shiny rose tinted nude shade.
Barely There
These long oval nails are the perfect length for someone who wants their nails to make a statement—even if that statement is a pinkish, nude whisper.
A Very Simple Christmas
For those who want to celebrate the holiday color palette, but don’t necessarily need something wild and covered in tinsel: this look is for you. The monochromatic green still stays in the holiday spirit while remaining chill.
Double Take French
Blink and you’ll miss it! These plain nails have the smallest hint of sparkle at the tip. Short and sweet, these French nails are the perfect plain holiday manicure.
Clean Slate
These plain white nails are simple and neat, with an almost milky white quality, they are bright and airy and perfect for winter.
Nailed it
The nudest of the nude, the “is there even polish” look is the perfect look for someone who just wants their nails to look sharp.
Nude Chrome
For those who can’t get enough of the chrome trend know that it can be done with a simple, nude color.
Glazed and Gorgeous
For the glazed donut look everyone is obsessed with (and rightfully so), these almond shaped nails are the perfect accessory for a day in the office, or a night out on the town.