When thinking of the perfect manicure, a few styles probably come to mind. There’s the sleek and glossy gel manicure that has an infinite level of shine. There’s also the trendy nail art manicure that features cool techniques like ombré, chrome or airbrushing. A shineless manicure probably doesn’t make the list, but it should. Matte nails have an exciting look and are easy to recreate at home. Whether you opt for a true matte nail polish or a topcoat, the finish adds an edgy and sleek touch to your look. Even better? The category offers a lot of variation, making it ideal for any manicure preference. But we know finding inspiration can be difficult. Fortunately, we’ve gathered some of the best matte nail looks to try right now.
Matte Nail Looks to Try
Baby Blue Matte Manicure
Not ready to ditch your pretty pastel polish? If so, this Robin’s egg blue manicure is the one for you. The creamy shade gets an edgy makeover with a shine-free matte topcoat. This set includes two accent nails, but a simple, solid manicure would look just as chic.

Matte Chocolate Brown French Manicure
This take on the French manicure screams fall. The chocolate brown polish is in line with the season’s earthy color palette, while the matte finish gives it a natural feel. Leaving the tips glossy adds to the quiet luxury look.

Matte Black & White Design
When in doubt, go for a contrasting design. This one uses an ebony base with bold white designs. Despite its simplicity, the final look is sleek and high fashion.

Half Nail Design
This half-painted design feels like a breath of fresh air in the sea of French manicures (not that there’s anything wrong with a good Frenchie). It’s inspired by the piping design of a saddle bag and uses the classic black and sable shades. To recreate, apply black polish half-way on the fingernails, leave the base bare and add a slim strip of brown polish around the nail’s tip.

Matte Sweater Nails
Textured nails are having a moment right now. If you’re new to the trend, a sweater design like this one can be a fun way to try it out. The key to nailing the look lays in the finish. Instead of a glossy topcoat, it features a matte option to enhance the texture.

Crimson Red Matte
There’s no denying the appeal of glossy red nails. It turns out a shine-less crimson manicure can have the same effect. Take a cue from this simple look and top your favorite red polish with a layer of matte topcoat. You’ll be surprised how amazing your nails will look.

Matte Brown Ombré French Manicure
The woody color and ombré effect of this French manicure are the perfect pairing for chic matte nails. Together, they give the manicure a unique style that’s eye-catching and alluring.

Teddy Bear Design
Matte nail polishes tend to have a moody look, but this teddy bear design proves that they can be just as fun. It may not be the easiest to DIY, but the final look is sure to impress.

Forest Green
Like the best deep plum or oxblood, a forest green polish has a distinctly sinister look. A matte formula will do the trick if you want to up the ante. The depth of the shade is enhanced when there’s no shine on the matte nails. The color has an especially wicked feel when paired with almond-shaped nails.
