When the time for 'toe exposure' season (aka spring/summer) rolls around, the thought of slipping into sandals can fill many of us with dread. However, if there’s one thing guaranteed to perk up tired toes, it’s a good pedicure. Whether that means a trip to the nail salon or a DIY session at home with a pedi toolkit and a rotation of polishes, well-groomed feet can make all the difference.
What might seem like a small detail can make a huge difference to your confidence — whether in Pilates classes, in the changing rooms or on occasions that call for an open-toe heel. A good pedi means you don’t have to give your feet a second thought.
We highly recommend having a small pedi kit at home. It doesn’t break the bank and keeps your tootsies looking pretty year-round. Alongside this, it’s worth having a selection of go-to pedicure shades you can rely on. If you need inspiration, we’ve rounded up the colours we swear by — they’re super flattering and genuinely suit every skin tone.
So, here are the best pedicure colours to choose from, whether you’re battling decision fatigue at the salon or planning your own at-home pedi.
Flattering pedicure colours
Tomato red
Like a punchy red lipstick, a bright red toe shade acts as an accessory — it instantly elevates a simple or neutral outfit. As long as the pigment is strong, it flatters every skin tone. Yes, even without a tan — in fact, it looks especially beautiful against very fair skin.
Essie Original High Shine and High Coverage Nail Polish in 64
Essie Original High Shine and High Coverage Nail Polish in 64
Burgundy
If bright red feels like too much, consider burgundy: a universally flattering shade that works across the board. It’s essentially a neutral. Because it leans slightly brown, it suits everyone. Crucially, if you have any nail damage you want to disguise, burgundy is perfect for covering it.
French tip
A classic for a reason: a delicate French tip on your toes (aka a super-thin line) is universally flattering. You’ll need a square shape on your big toe to carry the design, though, so if you’ve recently broken a nail, you might want to try another shade until it grows long enough to shape.
Navy
Blue nails aren’t universally loved, but navy is the exception — it looks good on everyone. Black can feel a bit harsh, but navy is softer and incredibly chic.
Chanel Long wear nail polish in 419 - LÉGENDE
Chanel Long wear nail polish in 419 - LÉGENDE
Olive green
Green isn’t always the most wearable, but olive hits the sweet spot. Its balanced tone (not too warm, not too cool) works across undertones, and it’s often flecked with gold or silver shimmer, giving your feet a subtle glow.
Milky white
Emphasis on milky. A stark white can look harsh on very pale or very deep skin tones, but a softer, creamier version suits everyone — especially if your feet have a bit of a tan. Consider this your pre-holiday go-to.
Leighton Denny High Performance Nail Polish in Starkers
Leighton Denny High Performance Nail Polish in Starkers
Coral
Of all the pinks, coral is the most universally flattering. Whether you opt for neon or pastel, it won’t clash with pinker undertones in lighter skin or appear ashy on deeper tones.
OPI Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish - Megawatt Hot 15ml
