Spring Trend: Pastel Nails

by Cinya Burton

Published Feb 16, 2012

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Transitioning into next season's bright hues doesn't necessarily mean you have to go neon right away. Pastel shades add a pretty pop of color to your look while complementing your wintertime complexion. Another reason to try out the muted colors? The soft, Easter-appropriate tints—which dominated Elie Saab's recent couture collection—are popping up in all the newest Spring polish collections. We chatted with celebrity manicurist Jenna Hipp (who works with Lea Michele and Michelle Williams) about the Top 3 pastel colors you need to try!

"Mint green was popular on the runways, and it's a great hybrid color to get you from winter to spring because it’s bright without being too loud," says Jenna. "The tone isn’t obviously girlie, so you can make it work for a preppy outfit and a rocker chic ensemble—it adds a very subtle feminine punch." Plus, the universal tint works well on any skin tone.

Beautylish recommends: Butter London Nail Lacquer in Bossy Boots
Beautylish recommends: Dior Vernis Scented Nail Lacquer in Waterlily
Beautylish recommends: RGB Nail Polish in Dew

"Lilac can be super fun when combined with neon, but it also looks very romantic when worn with white or cream," according to Jenna." Like most purples, lilac can have tricky undertones, but the hue works best on medium or olive to dark skin." She suggests trying the shade at a salon before you buy the bottle.

Beautylish recommends: Essie Nail Polish in To Buy Or Not To Buy
Beautylish recommends: China Glaze Nail Polish in Sweet Hook
Beautylish recommends: Nicole by O.P.I. Nail Polish in One Big Happy Fame-ily

"This spring, it’s all about dewy skin, flushed cheeks, bright floral patterns, and a splash of pink on the nails," says Jenna. Pink fingertips can sometimes look a bit precious, so play with the finish to give it more pizazz. "Layer on a glossy top coat," suggests Jenna. "The added shine is more forgiving than a severe matte texture, or no top coat at all." Not sure which petal hue is right for you? Jenna recommends matching a polish to your favorite lipstick or blush and testing the tint on your toes first.