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3 min read
Looking for a new signature nail shade? Why not try one of these most popular nail polishes…
We’ve all stood in front of an overwhelming wall of nail varnish colours, ignoring the sheer variety on offer, only to once again reach for our trusted go-to shade. Whether it’s a classic red, a chic nude or a bold pop of colour, there’s something comforting about sticking with what we know.
This got us thinking: what are the most popular nail shades in the UK right now? In the interest of beauty journalism, we reached out to some of the country’s top beauty retailers to find out which shades are flying off the shelves and into shopping baskets. From understated neutrals to timeless reds, these varnishes aren’t just popular for the sake of it – they’ve earned their place as the most-loved shades across the country.
And let’s face it, sometimes there’s no harm in following the crowd: these shades have been tried, tested, trusted and loved by many for a reason. So if you’re looking for your signature nail shade, why not explore one of these crowd-pleasers? Whether you’re into minimal nudes, romantic pinks or statement reds, the UK’s most popular varnishes are here to help you find your perfect match…
OPI Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish in Bubble Bath
A favourite for weddings and everyday wear, this iconic shade is the bestselling polish at Lookfantastic – and for good reason. It’s a perfect barely-there pink that gives your nails a healthy-looking boost of soft, subtle colour.
Shop OPI Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish in Bubble Bath at Lookfantastic, £18
Essie Nail Polish in Ballet Slippers
According to Lookfantastic, Essie’s Ballet Slippers is the second most popular shade on the website. If you’re a nail enthusiast, this will probably come as no surprise: the cult colour is favoured by royalty and is famous for being the late Queen’s favourite.
Shop Essie Nail Polish in Ballet Slippers at Lookfantastic, £8.99
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri 1 Stroke-1 Coat-Done! Nail Varnish in In a Blush
The third most popular shade on Lookfantastic? This pleasingly affordably milky-pink hue from Sally Hansen. With a one-coat, fast-drying colour, it’s easy to see why this is such a popular formula.
Shop Sally Hansen Insta-Dri 1 Stroke-1 Coat-Done! Nail Varnish in In a Blush at Lookfantastic, £4.99
Dior Vernis in 108 Muguet
When it comes to Dior, the most popular shade isn’t a nude but this gorgeous deep midnight red shade. Classic and timeless, it’s like a little black dress for your fingertips.
Mylee 5-in-1 Builder Gel in Light Pink
For gel formulas, this is the most popular shade at Lookfantastic. The soft, creamy pink is perfect for recreating those viral Harriet Westmoreland minimalist nail art designs we’re all obsessed with.
Shop Mylee 5-in-1 Builder Gel in Light Pink at Lookfantastic, £13
Chanel Le Vernis in Rouge Noir
This Chanel classic debuted in 1994 and quickly skyrocketed to become the most popular shade. The colour was virtually created on the catwalk as make-up artist Heidi Morawetz mixed black and red to create the effect she was looking for. It sold out immediately in the UK on the day it was launched.
The Gel Bottle BIAB in Dolly
When it comes to BIAB nails, the sheer pinky-nude shade Dolly is most popular. “People love a chic, clean aesthetic,” explains Giorgia Cappella, training and education manager at The Gel Bottle. “Dolly is a semi-sheer light pink builder gel with a hint of white – it’s ideal for layering gels on top and for French manicures as well.”
Shop The Gel Bottle BIAB in Dolly, £20.39 (for professional use only)
Rimmel 60 Seconds Nail Polish in Mauve to the Music
It’s no secret that Rimmel London does some of the best and most affordable nail varnishes around. The brand is the third most popular on Lookfantastic, with this gorgeous muted mauve shade coming in at number one.
Shop Rimmel 60 Seconds Nail Polish in Mauve to the Music at Lookfantastic, £3.99
Images: courtesy of brands
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