The 15 Best Essie Nail Colors That You Can Still Buy

When you think of a nail polish bottle, the first image that probably comes to mind is Essie. The brand is one of the most recognized and iconic nail brands. Why? Over 40 years since its debut, Essie’s formulas—lacquers, gels and more— are stronger and its nail colors have even wittier names.

We haven’t even addressed Essie’s expansive color range. With hundreds of shades across every spectrum, in creams, metallics, jellies and more, Essie is always at the top of a nail painter’s favorite polishes. While Essie may be at the forefront of new nail hues, many shades are discontinued (justice for Clambake and Allure!). With so many color choices and regular swapped-out collections, it’s difficult to keep up with the best of the best. So, I did some research. Keep scrolling to see which of Essie’s nail colors are best-sellers, fan favorites AND still available to buy today.

15 of the Very Best Essie Nail Colors

1 / 15

Wicked ($7)

A deep burgundy, or vampy dark red, ideal to match the mood of the fall and winter months.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $7
• BUY ON ULTA – $7

2 / 15

Ballet Slippers ($9)

A classic pale pink, and also the unofficial nail polish for royalty—the late Queen Elizabeth wore it frequently. Rumor has it’s a go-to for the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton and that Megan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, wore it on her wedding day.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $9
• BUY ON ULTA – $7

3 / 15

Licorice ($7)

A simple and striking jet-black cream with a glossy finish.

• BUY ON ULTA – $7
• BUY ON TARGET – $10

4 / 15

Off Tropic ($10)

The brand describes this deep hue as “lush grove green.” It’s also a favorite polish of Alexandra Teleki, known as The Hot Blend on Instagram and TikTok. “You simply can’t go wrong with a chic green set of nails,” she says.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $10
• BUY ON TARGET – $10

5 / 15

Not Red-y For Bed ($7)

Another of Teleki’s must-have Essie colors is Not Red-y For Bed, a rich cherry red.

• BUY ON ULTA – $7
• BUY ON TARGET – $10

6 / 15

Fiji ($7)

An opaque baby pink that’s flattering all year round.

• BUY ON ULTA – $7
• BUY ON MACY'S – $9

7 / 15

Bikini So Teeny ($7)

A “cornflower blue” that calls to mind sweet spring days.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $7
• BUY ON ULTA – $7

8 / 15

Topless & Barefoot ($7)

A soft beige pink that brings out the best of both tones.

• BUY ON ULTA – $7
• BUY ON TARGET – $10

9 / 15

Marshmallow ($7)

If you love a milky white manicure, this powdery shade will reign over all others.

• BUY ON ULTA – $7
• BUY ON TARGET – $10

10 / 15

Bordeaux ($7)

Another autumnal favorite is Bordeaux, a deep wine shade that’s like the sophisticated older sister to black.

• BUY NOW – $7

11 / 15

Go Ginza ($8)

According to the brand, this “cherry blossom purple” evokes “quiet luxury” and “exquisite beauty.” Sold.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $8
• BUY ON TARGET – $10

12 / 15

Rocky Rose ($7)

Think of a quaint Mediterranean village and you’ll see this creamy terracotta polish with yellow and red undertones.

• BUY NOW – $7

13 / 15

Blanc ($7)

A true snow-white that’s elegant and smooth. It’s also the go-to for classic French manicure tips.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $7
• BUY ON ULTA – $7

14 / 15

Mademoiselle ($7)

A classic sheer pink that always makes me feel like a real grown up. It’s elegant, sheer and easy to wear no matter the season.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $7
• BUY ON ULTA – $7

15 / 15

After School Boy Blazer ($7)

A deep navy shade that’s nearly-black and reminiscent of a true midnight sky. It’s the edgier, cooler cousin to traditional dark manicures like burgundies and blacks.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $7
• BUY ON ULTA – $7