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There's no shortage of decisions to be made before your wedding day—the dress, your hairstyle, a final makeup look. And while a color for your bridal manicure may be further down on that list, it's not something to overlook. After all, there are sure to be tons of photos and videos of your hands for the big ring exchange (not to mention, the plethora of champagne toasts), so finding a color that complements your bridal look and personal style is essential.
When finding your ideal nail polish color, first consider the shade and finish. Do you want something subtle and glossy or bold and matte? You'll also want a polish that lasts throughout your entire wedding weekend, from the rehearsal dinner to the farewell brunch, so it's best to go with a trusted chip-resistant formula. To help you find the perfect shade for your wedding day mani, we researched and rounded up the best wedding day nail polish options with these features in mind.
Inspired by Mandy Moore (hence the name), this is a universally-flattering nude. Nude shades vary, but somehow this one accentuates most skin tones thanks to the perfect balance of toasted beige and pink undertones. Clean and natural, the understated effect can't be beat for the minimalist bride.
Price at time of publish: $9
Color: Light nude | Finish: Gel-like
There's no shortage of shades to choose from in this line, which also happens to be the best-selling at-home gel polish brand in the U.S. We're partial to this pearlescent, almost mauve-like pink—a top choice for any bride who wants a manicure that sparkles alongside her rings. Chip-resistant and long-wearing, it works best when swiped directly onto nails (no base coat needed) and finished off with the brand's Miracle Gel Top Coat.
Price at time of publish: $12
Color: Light pinkish-mauve | Finish: Glossy, pearlescent
This remains one of the most beloved nail polishes of all time. Case in point: According to the brand, over 800 bottles are sold every day in the U.S. Talk about a crowd favorite! The ultra-popular soft pinkish-white-beige hybrid is also a staple for the Royal family—it was one of the few shades approved by Her Royal Highness, and the polish Meghan Markle wore for her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry. While it's opaque enough to completely cover nails, it's still sheer enough to flatter a variety of different skin tones.
Price at time of publish: $10
Color: Pale pink | Finish: Semi-sheer glossy
There's no denying that anything white always feels very bridal, though when it comes to nail polish, full-on white can sometimes feel a bit too stark. That's why we appreciate OPI's multi-dimensional ivory option. It still reads as white, though it has a pearlescent finish that shifts and changes tones as it catches the light for a gorgeous, prismatic effect. It's the ideal choice for the bride who wants a traditional mani, but with a twist. Plus, the formula delivers up to 11 days of wear and an eye-catching mirror-like shine.
Price at time of publish: $12
Look pretty in pink, indeed! There's something slightly vintage and retro about this blush hue, which makes it a great choice for the ultra-feminine bride. Still, despite the classically "girly" shade, it's still sophisticated and mature. And while the hue looks gorgeous swiped on nails, it would also make for a pretty bridal pedicure shade.
Price at time of publish: $18
Color: Blush pink | Finish: Glossy
An apricot cream color, this nude is particularly pretty on deeper skin tones, though truly does work on everyone. Equally as pleasing as the shade is the formula, infused with an impressive list of 10 different ingredients that improve the health and strength of your nails, while also the upping wear-time and shine factor.
Price at time of publish: $17+
For brides who want to think outside the beauty box, this cool hue is a great choice. A perfect balance of subtle blue and gray tones, it can also pull double duty as your "something blue." The cream finish makes for opaque coverage, and while it's definitely more of a statement than a traditional nude nail, it still comes across as a neutral that isn't too out there.
Price at time of publish: $10
Color: Pale grayish-blue | Finish: Glossy
Founded by longtime beauty editor Eleanor Langston, Paintbox is a staple on the New York City nail salon scene, known for unique and sophisticated nail art. Recently, they launched their own curated collection of polishes, which includes this stunner. This whispery lilac has creamy white undertones that really make it stand out (particularly when set against darker skin), and is a great alternative for brides who want something other than beige or pink. Plus, the formula is 10-free, as well as vegan, and cruelty-free.
Price at time of publish: $22
Color: Pale lilac | Finish: Glossy
Another classic Essie shade approved by the Royal Family, Kate Middleton wore this sheer beige for her nuptials. Her manicurist layered it with a soft pink hue from a British polish brand—to that point, this neutral does mix and match nicely with other shades. Ideal for any bride going for a natural look, this barely-there shade is soft and demure, though it also makes for a great base for a French manicure.
Price at time of publish: $10
Color: Light beige | Finish: Sheer glossy
Emily Weiss wore this understated nail polish color for her 2016 wedding. Calling it her "perfect nude," the light beige hue is classy, versatile, and fit for any bride who wants to keep it simple.
Price at time of publish: $15
Color: Light beige | Finish: Glossy
For a bold statement, consider a red manicure. We love Butter London's Her Majesty's Red, a true crimson with rich, cool undertones. This high-end nail polish features the brand's shock-resistant polymer technology and promises not to chip or fade for up to 10 days.
Price at time of publish: $17
Color: Red | Finish: Glossy gel-like
Interested in a sheer shade? Check out this powdery pale blush hue from Hermès. The translucent gel-like lacquer leaves a shiny finish and a hint of color on your nails for a delicate, feminine look that's undeniably bridal.
Price at time of publish: $55
Color: Pale blush | Finish: Glossy sheer
Beige is never a bad idea when it comes to bridal manicures. This perfectly neutral hue is intensely pigmented yet understated, plus the premium formula goes on smooth, fills in ridges, dries quickly, and resists chipping.
Price at time of publish: $35
Color: Light beige | Finish: Glossy
As the bride, you can choose whatever nail polish color suits your personal style. However, it's best to go with colors that'll complement your look, not distract from it—especially once you add an extra ring to the mix! In general, understated hues in neutral shades are a foolproof option. You also can't go wrong with light pinks, off-whites, and other light and airy shades.
Narrowing down your bridal mani color can be a daunting task, as there are endless hues to choose from. Consider your overall bridal look, as well as your venue and wedding aesthetic. Traditional brides will gravitate toward a classic nude polish, while a soft blue is more suited for modern brides hosting a chic city ceremony. Going for a bohemian vibe? Create a dreamy bridal look with light pink hues or off-white tips.
You'll want your mani-pedi to last all weekend long, so getting your nails done just one to two days before your wedding is best. Not only will your nails still be fresh, but it will also save you time getting ready on the big day.
Brides contributor Melanie Rud has nearly 15 years of journalism experience covering the beauty and lifestyle space for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. She’s also a recent newlywed! This article was updated with additional product picks and buying tips by Theresa Holland, a commerce writer specializing in beauty and fashion.
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