How quickly the tides turn: After a meteoric rise, the dizzying patterns, wild color combos, and blinding hues of over-the-top nail art are beginning to feel a bit played out. And if you consider that the rate of sales growth for nail products has dipped by half the past two years in a row . . . well, the numbers don’t lie. It’s about time to stop the mani madness. So what’s next for nails if you’re not into going bare? Right now, what feels fresh and oh-so-chic is a welcome return to simpler, sophisticated solids. Our vote: Rebel against the outrageous styles by painting on a subtle, barely there nude or a soft, neutral griege. Or if the very thought of packing away the rainbow of lacquers gives you major separation anxiety, try rocking a classic red for a dash of retro-esque glamour, or a lush, inky navy for an unexpected-yet-elegant take on color.
Barely There Nudes
Try these: Deborah Lippmann Naked, $17; HIPPxRGB, $18; Chanel Le Vernis Beige; $27
Classic Reds
Try these: Nars Dovima, $19; Dior Vernis Massai Red, $24; Tom Ford Scarlet Chinois, $32
Shades of Grey
Try these: Essie Chinchilly, $8; OPI’s You Don’t Know Jacques, $8; Marc Jacobs Delphine, $18
Rich Midnight Blues
Try these: Essie Midnight Cami, $8; Butter London Royal Navy, $15; Nars 413 BLKR, $19
