Fiancé? Check. Bridesmaids? Check. Dress? Check. How ‘bout your nails, though? With all the craziness that comes with planning your special day, mani-pedis are sometimes overlooked or put off till the last minute. To top it all off, brides are often stumped as to what shade will look best with their dress. If you’re a stressed-out bride currently trying to figure it out, fret not. Below, we’ve rounded up the prettiest colors for your big day. Whether you’re looking for an elegant shade of pink, a little bit of shimmer, or something blue, the top-rated polishes below are perfect for the occasion. Our algorithm’s scoured the internet, multiple best-seller lists, top bridal publications, and more to pinpoint the polishes brides are obsessed with, from a stand-out shade of red to Queen Elizabeth’s long-time go-to (not kidding). Keep scrolling to discover our Top 10 picks and get painting. Opening image: @OPI
Love our 10 Best Bridal Nail Polishes? Just wait till you see our 10 Best Light Pink Nail Polishes!
May 15, 2019
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The Rankings
Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in Sheer Fantasy
WHY YOU NEED IT: Thanks to Essie's innovative gel formula, this shade is guaranteed to last through the honeymoon.
COMPLETE THE LOOK: Be sure to finish your mani with Essie's Gel Couture Top Coat to seal, protect, and add major shine.
Essie Nail Polish in Borrowed And Blue
BEST FOR: Who says your "something blue" can't be your nails? This shade is great for brides looking for a subtle pop of color.
LOVED FOR: Pastels are notorious for their streaky application, but this baby blue hue applies completely opaque and streak-free after just two coats.
Tom Ford Nail Lacquer in Toasted Sugar
LOVED FOR: Believe us when we tell you that this shade looks as good as it sounds. It blends in with fairer skin tones and gives darker ones a clean, classic look.
HELPFUL TIP: This shade is a bit sheer, so you may need to apply three coats to reach full opacity.
OPI Sheers Collection Infinite Shine in Chiffon-D of You
BEST FOR: This frosty pale pink is ideal for the bride who likes a little shimmer.
WHY YOU NEED IT: This classic shade is one you'll be able to wear long after the ceremony's over.
Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Gitane
BEST FOR: If you want a mani that truly stands out, this classic red will do just the trick.
WHY YOU NEED IT: Finding the perfect true-red polish can be tough, but Chanel's got you covered with Gitane. It's not too pink, not too orange, totally opaque, and super shiny (even without a top coat).
Essie Nail Color Polish in Blushing Bride
BEST FOR: Essie's Blushing Bride is perfect for ladies who want a subtle mani. This pale pink shade is almost clear and leaves nails with a clean and healthy look.
USERS SAID: "This is a nice option for those of us who like bare nails, but want to dress them up every now and then. It's very sheer and one coat is all it takes to add a nice warmth and shine while helping to minimize imperfections."
Butter London Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer in Piece of Cake
LOVED FOR: This formula provides a super-shiny, gel-like finish—no UV lamp required.
FUN FACT: Piece of Cake is eight-free, meaning you'll feel good (and look good) while wearing it.
OPI Nail Lacquer in Mimosas For Mr. & Mrs.
LOVED FOR: This elegant neutral looks great on all skin tones.
USERS SAID: "I've bought a million different polishes looking for that perfect pale pink/almost-nude color. FINALLY, this one is perfect!"
Orly Nail Lacquer in Kiss The Bride
WHAT IT DOES: This shade is subtle, but provides a pretty glow perfect for complimenting that bling on your finger.
FUN FACT: For those who are impatient when it comes to letting your manicure dry, this shade is for you. The fast-drying formula means you can get on with your day—without having to avoid the use of your hands.
Essie Nail Polish in Ballet Slippers
WHY WE LOVE IT: "I'm a total nail polish junkie and I wear this shade more than any of my other ones. It's the perfect light pink, looks great with everything, and doesn't streak at all." -Kate Ferris, Copywriter
AS SEEN ON: Meghan Markle wore this color on her wedding day. Yes, seriously.
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