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While the summer is when our feet tend to get the most airtime, foot care isn't seasonal. Consistent maintenance is key to healthy and happy-looking toes, and these elegant pedicure colours, in particular, never fail to deliver a mature and flattering look.
"As we age, our nails and feet naturally go through changes," explains Roxanne Lanthier, Senior Aesthetician at Young LDN, "so a pedicure should focus on both appearance and long-term nail and skin health." She adds that your nails may become thicker, more brittle or develop ridges, while the skin on the feet can become drier due to reduced oil production. A pedicure, therefore, is a great way to keep your feet in tip-top condition; that said, with so many pedicure trends afoot (pun intended), it can be a little overwhelming deciding on a shade that is simultaneously flattering and timeless - especially if you're keen to keep up a good at-home routine or appointment schedule.
The expert advice? Well, for starters, whatever shade makes you feel the most confident, though there are a few universally elegant hues that always surpass the seasonal trends - these six, especially.
Flattering and timeless pedicure shades to request, per the experts
When it comes to your choice of pedicure colour, there is no right or wrong. You can go bright, like summer's popular 'Picante' pedicure, or more subtle and retro with a French pedicure. The key is finding a colour or design that you love and find easy to wear.
"The best shade is always the one that makes someone feel the most confident, regardless of age," notes Lanthier. "Rather than following rules about what people should wear, we encourage clients to choose colours that complement their personal style and skin tone."
That said, there are some timeless pedicure colours that, as Lanthier puts it, "look elegant season after season rather than following trends."
As for what shades to choose, "Soft nude shades, sheer pinks, creamy beiges and classic reds have remained favourites for decades because they complement a wide range of skin tones and work equally well with sandals, trainers or evening shoes," explains Lanthier.
"Deep burgundy, rich berry and dark cherry shades also feel sophisticated, particularly during the colder months, while crisp white or an off-white cream has become a modern classic for summer holidays thanks to its clean, fresh appearance."
Our pedicure essentials
RRP: £15
Regardless of what stylish pedicure colour you choose, a top coat is a must-have for enhancing the finish and boosting its longevity and wear. This is one of Digital Beauty Writer Naomi Jamieson's favourites for a lasting and professional-looking pedicure, as it delivers a glossy, gel-like shine and helps protect the base colour from lifting and chipping.
RRP: £23.49
If you've got stubborn dry or peel-y patches on your heels or soles, a foot file is a great tool to have on hand, especially if you're wanting to debut your feet in a pair of stylish sandals or heels. Beauty Writer, Naomi, really likes this electric pedicure wand for a bit of quick, at-home maintenance. "I use it very gently over any areas of texture and dryness before quickly chasing it with one of the best foot creams - it leaves my feet so soft and clean-looking."
RRP: £4.70
Combat rough and dry skin with a hydrating best foot cream like this cheap and cheerful one from Palmer's. It features cocoa butter, peppermint oil and skin-softening mango butter to leave your feet nourished and soothed.
If you want to give your feet and toes a little zhush at home, we recommend investing in a good quality foot file, a hydrating foot cream and clear top coat - to layer over your favourite essie nail polishes and so on.
1. Soft nudes
As mentioned, warm nudes and subtle shades are always a safe and chic choice. "Softer neutral shades remain consistently popular because they offer a polished, elegant finish and suit every occasion," says Lanthier.
This warm, sandy nude is ideal for a chic and subtle pedicure.
2. Milky pinks & blush tones
Equally, Lanthier says milky pinks and blush tones are also very versatile and possess 'a timeless quality.' These milky and sheer nail polishes subtly elevate and enhance, rather than stealing focus - ideal if you're looking for a pedicure that complements all your footwear and just looks clean.
Buildable and glossy, this milky pink is a favourite for a reason.
3. Classic reds
" A rich blue-red or deep cherry shade can feel sophisticated and flattering throughout the year, while muted berry tones offer a softer alternative."
For a chic and speedy red pedicure, this quick-drying polish is a great choice.
4. Cream and crisp white
White pedicures are as classic as they come, especially among those seeking a minimalistic look or a reliably luxe-looking and versatile vacation shade.
"Crisp white or an off-white cream has become a modern classic for summer holidays thanks to its clean, fresh appearance."
Argubaly the most iconic OPI nail polish, Funny Bunny is a no-brainer for a timeless pedi.
5. Burgundy
Burgundy pedicures, while proving especially popular this year, are also very classic, year-round, but Lanthier notes that clients do tend to gravitate towards them, along with plum and chocolate tones, in the autumn/winter.
That said, deep burgundy and dark cherry shades will always feel sophisticated, no matter the season.
Rich and expensive-looking, essie Bordeaux is beauty team-approved.
6. Summer brights
For a summer pedicure that feels elegant and timeless, Lanthier says "coral, soft peach, and watermelon shades bring warmth to the feet without feeling overly bright," and are popular throughout the season. Watermelon nails also transition perfectly into a bright red for autumn too.
Bright and cheerful for both your fingernails and toes.
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