The Best Nail Shades for the Winter-to-Spring Transition

Pastels, candy-colored shades and more.

By Catharine Malzahn

Published: Feb 23, 2026

The Best Nail Shades for the Winter-to-Spring Transition

The start of spring is always a welcome sight: The clouds part to reveal sunny blue skies, flowers bloom again and, for beauty lovers, it’s time for spring nail colors. Though much of the country is still feeling firmly wintery, we’re less than a month away from the official start of spring on Friday, March 20 (cue the applause). That means it’s time to start thinking about which nail polishes to try for the upcoming season. You could even start wearing them now to channel—and maybe manifest—that spring energy. From candy-colored greens to classic pastels, these are the best nail colors to celebrate the season and make it feel like renewal has already arrived.

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OPI Nail Lacquer in Sunny Bunny ($12)

OPI’s new spring collection draws inspiration from some of the brand’s most iconic shades, and this soft, creamy butter yellow is a nod to the cult-favorite Funny Bunny. Perfect for the season, butter yellow has been one of the most popular spring and summer shades since last year, and it’s proven to be more than just a passing trend. While Funny Bunny is a sheer milky white, its sister shade, Sunny Bunny, features a similarly semi-sheer finish. Apply two coats and top with a glossy top coat to fully channel the spring energy.

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Essie Nail Lacquer in Crochet Away ($10)

Neutral shades like taupe are often overlooked for spring, but they make for a perfect transitional color. While the season is typically associated with baby pinks, blues, greens and yellows, a warm taupe offers a refreshing alternative, especially if you prefer a nude that complements your skin tone. Nail artist Olha Shtanhey has also highlighted sandy beige (think a warm beige-taupe) as a spring trend to watch, making this shade right on cue for the season.

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Essie Nail Lacquer in Crochet Away ($10)

essie crochet away nail polish

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Gucci Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish in Melinda Green ($35)

If you’re craving something bolder than a pastel, sour-candy green is the move. Celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein has named bright, sour-ball-inspired shades as a major trend, and this punchy green is the perfect representation of that. Because it leans vibrant, you can always start by wearing it as an accent nail before committing to a full set—though it’s striking either way.

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Gucci Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish in Melinda Green ($35)

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Olive & June Nail Polish in KMC ($10)

Expect to see plenty of teal, aquamarine and other muted, ocean-inspired shades throughout spring. This versatile blue-green strikes the perfect balance: fresh enough for the season, yet subdued enough to read as a neutral that pairs with any spring outfit. Finish with a glossy topcoat for shine or go matte for a softer, modern twist.

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Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Nail Color in Don't You Want Me ($20)

Feeling peachy about spring? Let your manicure follow suit. This peach-meets-coral shade is a warm-toned welcome to the season. It’s soft yet bright, with just a hint of tropical energy, perfect for manifesting a spring break getaway. Whether worn on short nails, long tips or paired with subtle nail art, it instantly elevates your look.

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Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Nail Color in Don't You Want Me ($20)

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Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer in Lilac Blossom ($10)

Milky finishes have been everywhere this year, from fragrance milks to milk bath manicures. Lean into the trend with a diffused, delicate lavender shade like this for spring. The soft shade is elegant on its own, but you can layer it with a sheer milky white for that dreamy milk bath effect. For an extra-polished touch, add subtle floral detailing to complete the look.

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Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer in Lilac Blossom ($10)

le mini macaron lilac blossom

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Manucurist Green Nail Polish in Satin ($14)

Pearly, chrome-powder finishes aren’t just fun—they’re a spring must-have. Since Hailey Bieber debuted her glazed-donut nails at the 2022 Met Gala, the look has expanded beyond salon chrome powders to pearly polishes you can apply at home. This pale pink shade feels especially right for the season, with a soft sheen that makes it even prettier.

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