In the 70 years of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, there has only been one nail colour she’s sported - in the public eye, at least. It’s so subtle you’ve likely never noticed it, though closer inspection shows her nails are often painted a soft and milky barely-there pink.
In fact, our monarch is so associated with the seashell pink, Essie Ballet Slippers, that royal folklore once suggested it was protocol to wear nothing stronger than a nude hue. ‘Such isn’t the case, though’, said royal correspondent Omid Scobie in 2018. ‘There’s no actual protocol about dark nail polish. It’s simply about being appropriate.’
And there is one particular - and suitably ‘appropriate’ - shade that the Queen favours. According to nail care brand Essie, the Queen’s hairdresser sent the brand a letter in 1989 requesting a bottle of its cult shade Ballet Slippers; ‘the only colour Her Majesty would wear.’ Since then, the duch*ess of Cambridge also wears this colour (almost) exclusively when public facing, as did the duch*ess of Sussex.
So: what is it about this polish that puts it at the top of Her Majesty’s wishlist? Part of the appeal lies in the colour itself; it’s a classic and subtle shade not dissimilar to those used in French manicures. It’s timeless, so sees no sign of ageing anytime soon, and because the formula is transparent, a single coat allows the natural pink of your own nail to show through, making it a flattering choice for all skin tones.
Want an opaque finish? It’s lightweight enough to layer on a second coat, without looking dense or heavy on the nail. Those who frequent a nude nail at home will be familiar with the occasional problems with streaking (which can be the case for paler shades of polish). To prevent this, use a lighter pressure as you glide your brush over your nail, waiting 10-15 minutes between coats.
The Monarch’s shade is a practical one, too: the brush is satisfyingly square and flat, nestling into the natural shape of the nail and coating it with real ease. Plus, a nude colour means chips are less obvious, making it a lower maintenance option for anyone without a manicurist at our beck and call.
The best part? The polish is yours for £7.99. You can shop Ballet Slippers, below.
Shop: The Queen's Favourite Nail Polish
Essie Ballet Slippers Nail Polish
Essie Ballet Slippers Nail Polish
As a seasoned beauty and fashion enthusiast with a wealth of knowledge in the industry, I bring a deep understanding of trends, product histories, and the significance of beauty choices made by influential figures. My expertise is not just theoretical; it is grounded in a practical understanding of the nuances within the world of cosmetics, including nail care.
The article about Queen Elizabeth II's preferred nail color, Essie Ballet Slippers, resonates with my extensive knowledge in beauty trends and royal preferences. Let's break down the concepts used in the article:
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Queen Elizabeth II's Nail Color History:
- The article discusses Queen Elizabeth II's consistent choice of nail color over her 70-year reign. This demonstrates her commitment to a particular aesthetic and style, showcasing her attention to detail in her public appearance.
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Essie Ballet Slippers - The Chosen Polish:
- The specific nail polish brand and color, Essie Ballet Slippers, hold significant importance. The article mentions that the Queen's hairdresser, in 1989, requested this particular shade for Her Majesty. This information emphasizes the exclusivity and royal approval of the product.
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Royal Protocol on Nail Polish:
- The article dispels the myth that there is a royal protocol restricting nail polish colors. According to royal correspondent Omid Scobie, it is more about appropriateness than strict rules. This insight provides a glimpse into the considerations made for the Queen's public image.
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duch*ess of Cambridge and duch*ess of Sussex's Choices:
- The article notes that both the duch*ess of Cambridge and the duch*ess of Sussex have also been seen wearing Essie Ballet Slippers, drawing a connection between the royal family members and their shared preference for this particular nail color.
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Features of Essie Ballet Slippers:
- The article highlights the timeless and subtle nature of Essie Ballet Slippers, comparing it to shades used in French manicures. The transparency of the formula is emphasized, allowing the natural pink of the nail to show through. This information provides insights into the aesthetic appeal and versatility of the chosen polish.
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Practical Aspects of the Nail Polish:
- Practical aspects of the nail polish, such as the square and flat brush design and the practicality of a nude color in terms of chip visibility, are discussed. This information caters to readers interested in the usability and functionality of the product.
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Affordability and Accessibility:
- The article concludes by mentioning the price of Essie Ballet Slippers (£7.99), making it an accessible and affordable choice for individuals looking to replicate the Queen's favorite nail color.
In summary, the article weaves together historical context, beauty trends, royal preferences, and practical considerations, providing a comprehensive understanding of Queen Elizabeth II's favored nail color and the chosen product's features.
