If you have pale skin, you might know that finding the right nail color can be a challenge. You want something that will make your nails look pretty and enhance your complexion, but you don’t want something that will clash or make you look washed out.

In this article, we will discuss the best nail colors for pale skin and why they work well. We will say which type of person we recommend the color for and which cute nail art ideas that go well with these colors!

First, let’s talk about what colors to avoid if you have pale skin. Of course it depends on the type of person you are and from there on you can choose a color that suits your person style. If you’re wanting to add some vibrancy and fun to your look, you’ll want to stay away from anything that is too dark or vampy, as this will make your skin look even paler which some may want if they are wanting a more grunge look, but it’s best to be avoided if you’re on the lookout to add more bright colors in your wardrobe.

Nail colors that are too light can also be a problem, as they can make your nails look weak and fragile and wash you out. Light colors are best done when there are added designs the nails.

Now for the fun part, the colors we recommend with a variety of people in mind! Read ahead for an in depth look at nail colors for fair skin tones!

Nail Colors For Pale Skin Summary Table

Nude

Pink

Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful color that looks great on all skin tones, especially pale skin. It’s perfect for spring and summer, and pairs well with other pastel nail polish colors.

A fun design to add to a purple hued nail would be a colorful accent color like pastel yellow or blue. This would make your nails super fun and vibrant, adding brightness to your day.

We recommend lavender nail polish for those who want a fun nail polish that is still delicate. Try out this lilac lavender shade from Sally Hansen for the perfect amount of fun.

Gold

Gold is a stunning color that can really make your nails pop. It’s perfect for special occasions and looks great with any type of nail art. Whilst gold nail polish can be quite flashy, the color is still classic and adds a timeless look to your outfits, especially if you wear gold jewelry.

For nail designs, it might be fun to use a gold color in the design over nude nail polish shades, such as gold glitter over natural nails or gold nail tips.

We recommend gold nails for those who want a festive nail color whilst still being classy. Try this gold shimmery shade from Sally Hansen for a wash of gold glimmer on your nails.

For more gold polishes, check out these Best Essie Gold Nail Polishes. Essie nail polish has a great sheen and a glossy finish that will suit gold nail polish designs.

Baby Blue

Baby blue is a great option for those who want something a little different than the usual pink nail polish colors we’re used to. It’s perfect for spring and summer, and pairs well with other pastel colors and white nail polish shades.

The best designs for baby blue nail polish would be complimentary designs made with white nail polish, such as clouds, floral designs or fun patterns. This will accentuate the blue undertones of the polish without adding any more color.

We recommend baby blue nails for those who want bright shades of color on their nails. Try out this light blue shade from Sally Hansen for your fix of baby blue nails.

Navy

Navy is a great color for those with a fair skin tone who want something a little more dramatic. It looks beautiful with any type of nail art and is perfect for any occasion.

Again, white designs look best with blue nails such as navy since it accentuates the shade o blue without adding more distracting colors to your nails. If you’re wanting your nails to look more simple and classic, then you can leave out the design and opt for a solid shade of navy instead.

We recommend navy nails to those wanting nail polish with depth to it. A classy color that goes well with denim clothes. Try out this nail shade with hints of navy from Sally Hansen if you’re wanting a more fun navy-inspired nail look.

If you’re looking to add a pop of color in your nail design, why not get the Best Red Nail Polish Pen for a two toned nail design.

White

White is a classic color that looks great on everyone. It’s perfect for those who want something simple and elegant. It also pairs well with all clothes and can help make your hands appear more youthful.

White nail polish colors pair well with black designs. The addition of black can add a cool look to those with light skin tones as it adds a monochromatic feel to your nails.

We recommend white nails to those with fair skin who want a fresh and simple nail color. Try out this white shade from Sally Hansen to freshen up your nails.

Metallic

Metallic colors like silver are perfect for those who want to make a statement. They’re perfect for special occasions, and can really make fair skin nails pop. With a mirror-like effect, these metallic nails are fun and fresh, and are very unique.

The best design to go for your metallic nails would be to use something either neutral to accent the metallic shade or to add clear stones to the nails to add texture.

We recommend metallic nails with a high shine finish for those with a more edgy personality, looking for a cool and unique color that will compliment their fair skin tone. Try out this metallic shade by Sally Hansen for a unique pop to lighter skin tones.

Red

The color red is a great option for those who want a bold nail color that will still suit their fair skin tone. The color red can also make your hands appear more youthful and desirable as the color red is synonymous with lust and passion.

Although a solid coat of red nail polish would best suit a fair skin tone, floral designs of white or accents of gold would best suit a red nail look.

We recommend this sultry nail polish color for those wanting a bold color choice to liven up their look as red can add fun and mystery to someone. Try out this shade of red from Sally Hansen for a pop of color.

If you’re wanting to add length to your nails for more design room, try out these Best Press On Polygel Nails to add some extra room for your beautiful nail designs.

Brown

Although most people think brown nails are better suited to medium skin tones and dark skin tones, brown nail polish can add a pop of color to those with fair skin who want to try something different.

Brown nails really suit white added designs as it keeps the nails looking fresh and not distracting. Adding designs with white nail polish such as floral or geometric patterns will make your nails unique and special.

We recommend brown nails to those who want a unique pop of subtle color. Try out this brown shade from Sally Hansen for a perfect brown polish color.

Question and Answers

Why are certain nail colors more suited to paler skin?

The reason why certain nail polish colors suit specific skin tones is because every skin color has undertones that are better suited or compliment certain nail polish colors. In the same breath, some may want an opposing color that brings out something that suits their style. For example, some individuals with pale skin might want to avoid lighter shades of nail polish as it can look to washed out on their skin tone, however, others with the same pale skin tone might want a lighter shade as this adds to their delicate nature.

What is the best way to add color to your nails?

The best and easiest way to add color to your nails is to use a nail polish or nail lacquer to simply add a coat of color to your nails that will last. If you are wanting a more professional or intricate look, you want to get your nails done in the salon where you can explore more colors, design techniques and nail lengths with acrylics.

How long does nail polish last for?

Depending on your own personal nail growth, nail polish can cover the full nail anywhere between two weeks to over a month if it hasn’t been scratched. The easy thing with nail polish is when the nail starts to show through you can always add another coat in the comfort of your own home. With something like gelish or acrylics, these will have to be replaced once grown out.

What is your favorite nail color? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this article with any friends who are looking for the perfect nail color if they also have a paler skin tone.