While polka dots, fruit nails and bubblegum ice cream nails have definitely given it a run for its money, BB cream nails still reigns supreme as the manicure of the summer.

Despite being a very minimal mani – the name comes from the no-makeup makeup look of BB cream – it’s unsurprising given the glowy tips it offers that look great even with growth and give your nails a break from gels.

It’s about “light coverage that blurs out any imperfections – exactly what a BB cream does for your face,” says nail artist and minimal mani connoisseur Mateja Novaković. But with the last days of summer slipping away, how will BB cream nails fare during autumn? Mateja has the answer: Lavender BB cream nails.

A subtle lilac twist on the classic nude of BB cream nails, the shade is perfect for the cooler months as autumn approaches and is a great update for those minimal mani lovers who want a slight change in colour. The best part about it is that it’s a versatile style that works for all skin tones.

The best lavender BB cream nail polishes

Once you’ve properly prepped your nails, apply a base coat like OPI Natural Nail Base Coat and follow up with a coat or two of your selected shade. To retain the sheer glossy look, try not to apply too many coats as you still want to see some of the natural nail from underneath.

Mateja recommends Gel Care Lavender BB Cream, which she used to create her nail look and if lavender is not your colour, the collection also includes Rose, Blush and Vanilla alternatives that still deliver the same naked nail vibe.

Bio Sculpture Fluttering Lavender is another great choice for delivering a sheer lilac shade, best followed up by a glossy top coat like Essie Gel Couture Gel Top Coat Nail Polish for extra shine. DND Daisy Duo in Loss Lavender and Cirque Colours in Lavender Sky also work for achieving the look.

Lavender BB cream nail inspiration

If you’re looking to upgrade your summer BB cream nail shades to make them more autumn-appropriate, here are some of our favourites.