The Most Used Nail Shades in 1950 – Ranked by Percentage

In the 1950s, nail trends reflected classic femininity, elegance, and Hollywood glamour. Red nails were the most iconic, symbolizing sophistication, while soft pinks, corals, and nude shades were popular for everyday wear. French manicures were emerging, and darker or bold shades were rare, as most women preferred understated and polished nails.

Nail Colors in 1950 (Percentage of Women Who Used Each Color)

Classic Red & Cherry Shades – 35% of women used these colors

Red nails were the most popular choice in the 1950s, representing glamour and femininity. Perfect for evening events, parties, and formal occasions.

Soft Pink & Baby Pink – 25% of women used these colors

Pink shades were widely used for daily wear, providing a delicate, elegant, and feminine look.

Coral & Peach Shades – 15% of women used these colors

Coral and peach tones were trendy for a soft, polished appearance suitable for work or casual wear.

Neutral Beige & Nude Shades – 12% of women used these colors

Nude and beige tones offered understated elegance for everyday wear.

French Manicure (Classic Tips) – 10% of women used French nails

French tips were just becoming popular, mainly used for weddings and formal occasions.

Dark Shades (Burgundy, Deep Plum) – 8% of women used dark colors

Dark nails were rare, used mostly for evening glamour or high-fashion events.

Clear Gloss / Transparent Shine – 7% of women used clear polish

Clear polish was chosen for simple, natural, and well-groomed nails.

Metallic & Chrome Nails – 5% of women used metallic nails

Metallic shades were uncommon in the 1950s and mostly experimental for fashion-forward individuals.

Glitter & Sparkle Nails – 4% of women used glitter polish

Glitter was very rare in 1950, primarily for special events or theatrical looks.

Bold Colors (Hot Pink, Bright Blue) – 3% of women used bold shades

Neon and bright colors were uncommon and mostly seen in youth fashion or experimental trends.

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What was the most popular nail color in 1950?

Classic red and cherry shades, used by 35% of women, were the top choice.

2. Were soft pink nails widely used in 1950?

Yes, 25% of women wore soft pinks for daily, elegant, and feminine looks.

3. Did coral and peach nails trend in 1950?

Yes, 15% of women chose coral or peach shades for a soft, polished appearance.

4. Were nude and beige nails popular in 1950?

Yes, 12% of women used nude or beige tones for understated elegance.

5. Were French manicures common in 1950?

French tips were emerging, used by 10% of women, mainly for weddings and formal occasions.

6. How common were dark nail colors in 1950?

Dark shades like burgundy and deep plum were rare, with 8% of women wearing them for special events.

7. Was clear polish used in 1950?

Yes, 7% of women chose clear polish for simple and natural looks.

8. Were metallic nails popular in 1950?

No, only 5% of women experimented with metallic shades.

9. How widely were glitter nails used in 1950?

Glitter was very rare, worn by 4% of women mainly for theatrical or festive events.

10. Were bold neon or bright colors common in 1950?

Bright colors like hot pink or blue were uncommon, used by only 3% of women for experimental fashion looks.