I’ve Done the Research—These Are the 6 Most Expensive-Looking Nail Shades of All Time

I don’t mean to brag, but when it comes to expensive-looking nail colours, I like to think of myself as somewhat of a connoisseur. While I’m all for tapping into nail trends and playful nail art on rare occasions, if there were a Spotify wrapped for manicure shades I ask for at the nail shop (how great would that be?), it's classic, luxe-looking colours that would come out on top. Why? Because I firmly believe nails have the power to elevate your look, so colours that channel an expensive aesthetic are my go-to.

What exactly does that mean? Well, in my opinion, the most expensive-looking nail colours are shades that look luxe. Think pigmented hues in glossy finishes like cherry red and chocolate brown. For the minimalists, sheer milky pink is a chic choice, while those partial to a trend-led look will want to lean into the creamy goodness of butter yellow for an expensive-looking spring-approved manicure.

It’s worth noting, while colour is of course important for an expensive-looking finish, how you apply your polish can also affect how expensive your manicure looks. Clean cuticles are key for achieving an ultra-polished finish, while a block colour look or simple nail art design will keep things elevated. Each of these colours looks so luxe, they really need very little embellishment to show them off to their best. Just take a look at these inspo pics for proof…

1. Milky Pink

Call me biased, as this is one of my favourite nail looks, but I firmly believe there’s no shade more expensive-looking than a milky pink hue. Elegant and understated yet with a trend-led twist, it’s the perfect soft nail look for wearing day to day.

Shop the Look:

Chanel

Les Vernis in Ballerina

Essie

Nail Polish in Mademoiselle

2. Chocolate Brown

Chocolate brown nails first started trending in the autumn of last year, however, it's a nail colour that has timeless appeal. For an expensive-looking finish, opt for a brown shade with warm undertones so it feels rich and comforting.

Shop the Look:

Sephora Collection

Nail Polish in Cocoa Cuddle

This is the cosiest chocolate brown shade.

Nails Inc.

Caught in The Nude Nail Polish in Hawaii Beach

Nails Inc.'s brown shade is slightly lighter making it ideal for spring and summer.

3. Cherry Red

While red nails are always a chic choice, if you want a shade that looks ultra-expensive, opt for a dark cherry tone. Channeling the juicy fruit the shade takes its name from, sumptuous red wine (like merlot nails) and classic red roses, this is a hue that screams luxury.

Shop the Look:

Nailberry

Oxygenated Nail Lacquer in Le Temps des Cerises

This is one of my favourite expensive-looking shades.

OPI

Got the Blues for Red Nail Polish

An indulgent red wine hue.

4. Aubergine

For an expensive-looking nail colour that feels unique, you need an aubergine hue. Sitting between a cherry red and moody plum tone, it’s an easy-to-wear shade that will work everywhere from the office to spring occasions and events.