The Most Used Nail Shades in 1980 – Ranked by Percentage

In 1980, nail trends embraced bold colors and glamour. Bright reds, dark shades, and metallic nails were popular for statement looks, while softer pinks and nude shades remained staples for everyday wear. Glitter and sparkle started to appear in party styles, reflecting disco-era influences and fashion magazine trends.

Nail Colors in 1980 (Percentage of Women Who Used Each Color)

Bright Red & Cherry Shades – 30% of women used these colors

Red nails were the most iconic color in 1980, dominating evening events, parties, and glamorous looks.

Dark Shades (Burgundy, Black, Deep Plum) – 25% of women used dark colors

Dark shades became very popular for bold, edgy fashion statements, especially in the disco and new wave styles.

Metallic & Chrome Nails – 18% of women used metallic nails

Metallic shades like gold, silver, and bronze were trendy for parties, discos, and evening glam.

Soft Pink & Baby Pink – 15% of women used these colors

Pink shades were popular for daily wear, providing a soft and feminine contrast to bolder colors.

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

Nude and beige tones were chosen for versatility and understated elegance.

Glitter & Sparkle Nails – 10% of women used glitter polish

Glitter was emerging as a fun, festive choice for discos, parties, and special events.

French Manicure (Classic Tips) – 8% of women used French nails

French tips were less common but still used for weddings, office, and polished looks.

Pastel Shades (Lavender, Mint, Baby Blue) – 7% of women used pastel nails

Pastels were rare but appeared occasionally in fashion magazines and among young women.

Clear Gloss / Transparent Shine – 6% of women used clear polish

Clear nails were used for natural, low-maintenance looks.

Bold Colors (Hot Pink, Orange, Bright Blue) – 5% of women used bold shades

Neon and bright shades were mostly used in parties, fashion-forward events, or youth trends.

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What was the most popular nail color in 1980?

Bright red and cherry shades, used by 30% of women, were the top choice.

2. Were dark nail shades popular in 1980?

Yes, 25% of women wore dark colors like burgundy, black, and deep plum for bold fashion statements.

3. Did metallic nails trend in 1980?

Yes, 18% of women used metallic shades like gold, silver, and bronze for parties and discos.

4. Were soft pink nails widely used?

Yes, 15% of women used soft pinks for everyday wear and feminine looks.

5. Did nude and beige shades remain popular?

Yes, 12% of women chose nude or beige for a versatile, understated style.

6. How common were glitter nails in 1980?

Glitter polish was used by 10% of women, mainly for parties and festive events.

7. Were French manicures common in 1980?

French tips were less frequent, with 8% of women using them for weddings or office looks.

8. Were pastel shades used in 1980?

Pastels were rare, chosen by 7% of women, mainly for young and fashion-conscious individuals.

9. Was clear polish used in 1980?

Yes, 6% of women preferred clear polish for natural, low-maintenance nails.

10. Were bold neon or bright colors trendy?

Bright pink, orange, and blue were used by 5% of women, mainly in youth, parties, or fashion-forward events.