The Most Used Nail Shades in 1990 – Ranked by Percentage
Sweety Karlak
In 1990, nail trends reflected a mix of bold and classic styles. Bright reds, soft pinks, and French tips were popular, while metallics, glitter, and darker shades started to gain attention. Women preferred polished and versatile nails, balancing everyday wear with statement looks inspired by pop culture and fashion magazines.
Nail Colors in 1990 (Percentage of Women Who Used Each Color)
Bright Red & Cherry Shades – 28% of women used these colors
Red nails were the most popular choice in 1990. Bright, cherry, and deep reds were iconic for parties, evening events, and bold statements.
Soft Pink & Baby Pink – 22% of women used these colors
Soft pinks and pastels remained popular, giving a feminine and subtle aesthetic for daily wear and work settings.
French Manicure (Classic Tips) – 18% of women used French nails
Classic French tips were widely favored for weddings, work, and polished everyday looks.
Neutral Beige & Nude Shades – 16% of women used these colors
Nude and beige tones were gaining popularity as a versatile, understated choice for casual and professional settings.
Dark Shades (Burgundy, Black, Navy) – 14% of women used dark colors
Dark nails started trending, particularly for evening events or fashion-forward styles.
Metallic & Chrome Nails – 12% of women used metallic nails
Metallic shades like silver, gold, and bronze were used for statement looks, parties, and special occasions.
Glitter & Sparkle Nails – 10% of women used glitter polish
Glitter polish was emerging as a fun, festive choice, especially for teens and party-goers.
Pastel Shades (Lavender, Mint, Baby Blue) – 8% of women used pastel nails
Pastels were less common but appeared in fashion magazines and among younger women.
Clear Gloss / Transparent Shine – 7% of women used clear polish
Clear nails were used for simplicity and a natural, polished look.
Bold Colors (Hot Pink, Orange, Bright Blue) – 6% of women used bold shades
Bright, bold colors were trendy mostly for summer, parties, or fashion-forward statements but were less frequent overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was the most popular nail color in 1990?
Bright red and cherry shades, used by 28% of women, were the most popular choice.
2. Were soft pink nails still trendy in 1990?
Yes, 22% of women wore soft pinks and baby pinks for feminine, everyday looks.
3. Did French manicures remain popular?
Yes, 18% of women wore classic French tips for weddings, work, and polished daily styles.
4. Were neutral beige and nude nails used in 1990?
Yes, 16% of women wore nude and beige shades for a versatile and understated look.
5. How common were dark nail colors?
Dark shades like burgundy, black, and navy were used by 14% of women, mostly for evenings or fashion-forward looks.
6. Were metallic nails popular in 1990?
Yes, 12% of women used metallic shades for parties and special occasions.
7. How widely were glitter nails used?
Glitter polish was used by 10% of women, mostly for festive events or teen fashion.
8. Were pastel shades trendy in 1990?
Pastels were emerging, with 8% of women choosing lavender, mint, or baby blue.
9. Was clear polish used in 1990?
Yes, 7% of women used clear polish for a simple, polished look.
10. Were bold neon or bright colors common?
Bright colors like hot pink, orange, or bright blue were used by 6% of women, mainly for parties or fashion statements.
