The Most Used Nail Shades in 1700 – Ranked by Percentage

In 1700, nails were kept natural and well-groomed. There was no nail polish as we know it today. Beauty standards focused on clean, healthy nails that reflected hygiene and social status. Subtle buffing, trimming, and natural shine were considered elegant, while colored or decorative nails were extremely rare.

Nail Colors in 1700 (Percentage of Women Who Used Each Color)

Natural Clear / Buffed Nails – 85% of women used this style

Most women preferred natural nails, carefully cleaned and buffed to create a gentle shine. This reflected personal hygiene and social grace.

Soft Pink / Pale Natural Shades – 10% of women used these colors

Slightly rosy natural nails were considered delicate and feminine, often achieved through healthy nail care rather than polish.

Beige / Nude Tones – 3% of women used these colors

Very light beige or nude tones were occasionally seen among the wealthy or aristocratic women for subtle elegance.

Clear Gloss / Oil Shine – 1% of women used this method

Some women used natural oils or waxes to give nails extra shine and maintain their health.

Red / Cherry Shades – 0.3% of women used these colors

Red nails were extremely rare, seen only in theatrical or elite circles experimenting with nail appearance.

Dark Shades (Burgundy, Black, Deep Plum) – 0.2% of women used dark colors

Dark nails were almost nonexistent and used only in artistic or theatrical contexts.

Metallic / Chrome Nails – 0.1% of women used metallic nails

Metallic nail colors did not exist for general use, and only rare experimental attempts may have been made.

Glitter / Sparkle Nails – 0.05% of women used glitter polish

Glitter was virtually unheard of and extremely rare.

Pastel Shades (Lavender, Mint, Blue) – 0.05% of women used pastel nails

Pastels were experimental and almost nonexistent in daily life.

Bold / Bright Colors – 0.05% of women used bold shades

Bright or neon colors were unknown; natural nails were the standard.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What was the most common nail style in 1700?

Natural, buffed nails were used by 85% of women, reflecting hygiene and elegance.

2. Were soft pink nails popular in 1700?

Yes, 10% of women had slightly rosy natural nails for a subtle feminine look.

3. Were nude or beige nails used in 1700?

Rarely, 3% of women wore nude or beige tones, mostly among aristocratic women.

4. Did women use any polish in 1700?

Almost none; only 1% of women used oils or waxes to enhance nail shine.

5. Were red nails popular in 1700?

No, only 0.3% of women used red nails for theatrical or elite experiments.

6. How common were dark nail colors?

Extremely rare, with 0.2% of women using dark shades.

7. Were metallic nails used in 1700?

Practically none (0.1% of women), as metallic finishes did not exist.

8. Were glitter nails known in 1700?

Glitter polish was virtually nonexistent (0.05% of women).

9. Were pastel nail colors used in 1700?

Pastels were experimental and extremely rare (0.05% of women).

10. Were bright or neon colors common in 1700?

No, bright colors were almost unknown (0.05% of women).