Fall Beauty Trend: Make Grey Polish Your Neutral

Make grey polish your go-to neutral this fall. (Photo: Zoltan Tombor)

Despite the runways being filled with some version of a nude nail over the last few seasons, this fall, we are making grey our go-to manicure shade. From soft, milky greys to deep charcoals, this is one color that always works and feels oh-so appropriate as the days get a little bit shorter. “Grey is a great fall neutral because it varies in so many shades,” says Michelle Matthews, who gave model Luz Pavon a concrete grey manicure on the set of our fall beauty shoot. “It’s the new black. It’s chic, modern, and sexy all in one.”

Those with a darker skin tone should opt for a concrete grey, it will look neutral but striking, says manicurist Michelle Matthews, who recommends Smith & Cult No Poem ($18) or MAC Studio Nail Lacquer in Snazzy Hound ($12). If you have medium or olive skin, go for a warmer shade like Butter London Patent Shine Nail Lacquer in Over the Moon ($18) or Zoya Nail Polish in Tove ($10), a slate grey satin polish. Cool toned greys will the look best on lighter skin tones says Matthews. Her go-to shade is Deborah Lippmann’s Misty Morning ($18).

As far as mastering the grey manicure at home, Matthews (and every other manicurist on the planet) can’t stress the importance of cuticle oil enough. Her favorite? Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil ($9). Having hydrated cuticles will help extend the length of your manicure. Also, make sure you have a good base coat on hand (try Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Base Coat, $45) which Matthews says will keep your nails from getting stained and provide an “anchor” for your polish.

Photographer: Zoltan Tombor) / Model: Luz Pavon / Hair: Deycke Heidorn / Makeup: Deanna Melluso / Nails: Michelle Matthews

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