It’s Sandal Season! The One Nail Polish Color That Looks Good With Everything

By now, you’ve probably moved your winter boots to the back of your closet, and are getting reacquainted with the fun sandals and strappy heels that have been patiently waiting for their time to reemerge and hit the streets . I love this time of year—it feels like a happy reunion with the shoes I haven’t thought about in months.

On the other hand, it also reminds me that I need to pay a little more attention to my feet before I bare them to the world. When it comes to nail polish, some people like to change things up from week to week. While I would love to live that fancy pedicure life, I just don’t have the time (or the money). So I’ve found the perfect nail color to wear all spring, no matter what I have on.

Why Lilac Is The Best Nail Polish Color

This light, cool shade of purple is more versatile than you might think. On the color wheel, it pairs with analogous (similar) shades like light blue and purple. But it also really pops with complementary (opposite) hues like yellow and green. It’s great with neutrals and black, and surprisingly fun when paired with navy blue or army green. Basically, whatever color you have on, lilac will either enhance it or play a subtle supporting role. It makes a great Easter nail color and still works through the hotter days of June.

Lilac is also one of those rare colors that looks good on just about every skin tone—warm, cool, and neutral. Even if you think you don’t like purple, try it and see. (And it will only be a little bit of color way down on your toes…)

Lilac Nail Polishes To Try

Essie: Salon-Quality Nail Polish In Lilacism

This fun pinky-purple shade (similar to its namesake plant) is my current favorite and one of our picks for the best spring nail colors overall.

Essie: Spring In Your Step

Here's a pretty lilac option with an iridescent pearl finish.

Essie: Primp & Powder

This warm lilac is part of Essie's Vintage Vanity Nail Polish Collection.

OPI: Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish In Last Glam Standing 

This pretty polish from OPI promises a gel-like finish for up to 11 days.

Sally Hansen: Insta-Dry Nail Polish In Lavish Lilac 

This cool lilac shade leans more toward lavender with a hint of gray.