The artistic principle underlying most color systems is using similar to enhance similar. For example, wearing a top or earrings in your eye color is generally flattering because it brings out the color in your eyes. Until just now, though, I had never considered applying that principle to my nail polish. Especially not my toenail polish.
My daughter just explained to me how, when she was a teenager, she realized that blues and greens made her feet look knobby (which makes sense: they would intensify shadows). She started painting her toenails pale pink and liked her feet better.
This discussion took place in the context of choosing new nail polish. My favorite (Sally Hansen Insta-dri
Addendum: I have noticed, since writing this, that pale pink may NOT be the best color for my fingernails. My hands can be red and dry and I really struggle with hangnails. Slate gray is a current favorite.
The great thing about a nude color is the chips don’t show, but I can get nearly a week out of a manicure topped with an extra coat of clear and Out The Door