The Best Pedicure Colors For Women Over 50
Who doesn’t love a classic red pedicure or manicure if you’re lucky enough to have strong fingernails? It’s timeless, ageless, goes with everything, and is so sophisticated! I’ve been thinking about contrast lately and reassessing pedicure colors for women over 50. Several readers have asked about foot care, so I’ve updated this post for any ladies with toes like mine.
When a color is a dramatic departure from the other colors around it, the eye is drawn to the contrast. Sometimes we want that to happen. Other times we don’t.
You may also enjoy- How To Find Your Personal Contrast Level And Why It Matters
I don’t know about you, but my toes have taken quite a beating over the years. Scars from bunion surgery top the list, but I’ve also broken several toes by stubbing and slamming them into things. Nobody ever “set” those broken toes, so they healed by themselves… and did a lousy job of it.
The not-so-funny thing is that the older I get, the more crooked my toes become, so wearing bright or dark-colored polish draws attention to their crookedness.
There are so many different nail polish brands out there, but Essie continues to be my favorite. The quality is great, and I find the Essie Couture Long Wear line lasts a full two+ weeks.
Pre Show Jitters has been my favorite pedicure color for several years. It’s a pale, almost white, almost nude shade with a slight touch of pink to it.
My Foot Smoothing Secret Weapon
I’ve been using this Rapid Relief Restoring Body Cream on my feet, and I am obsessed…which I don’t say lightly! It has a hefty 15% lactic acid plus ceramides, so it exfoliates and moisturizes.
I intended to buy these moisturizing heel socks to help it soak in, but I don’t have to. After three nights of slathering my feet with this cream, they are as smooth as a baby’s bottom. No cracks, no dryness, and no signs of dryness.
With the arrival of sandal season, I thought I would share some of the great pedicure colors for women over 50.
My Favorite Pedicure Colors For Women Over 50
Ballet Slippers
Pale pink is such a versatile color that I find goes with most of the clothing in my wardrobe. This shade, Ballet Slippers, is one of Essie’s most popular polish colors and is easy to get at a nail salon.
Ladylike
Nude and beige nail polishes are my favorite shade for nails these days. I think they look chic without drawing too much attention to my feet.
Go Ginza
If brightly colored toe polish brings you joy every time you see it, the options are endless. I bought a periwinkle similar to this Go Ginza this spring and loved it.
Penny Talk
If you like to choose a color, I like to pick one in the medium range, like this pretty pink. It isn’t too light and bright, but it also isn’t too dark.
Blanc
Have you ever tried painting your nails white? I know many do white tips, but a full white nail can be just as great as a neutral.
How to Give Yourself a Pedicure at Home
If you don’t like going to a salon or don’t have the time, you can give yourself a pretty great pedicure at home these days. Below, I’ve made a list of my favorite products to get your feet and nails ready.
Double Sided Callus Remover
The first step for any at-home pedicure is removing dead skin and calluses. This double-sided foot file gets great reviews and is a must-have during sandal season.
Nail Polish Remover
One of the best parts about going to a nail salon for a pedicure is that they do such a great job at removing previous nail polish. They also use the remover to touch up any spots that don’t need polish. I like that this one can remove even the darkest of polishes without drying out your cuticles.
Nail Strengthener
If you have delicate, weak, or brittle nails, I’d suggest trying a nail strengthener like this one. It’s formulated with hydrolyzed wheat protein and calcium to help you grow longer, stronger nails.
Tea Tree Oil Foot Soak
An at-home pedicure can be just as relaxing as a trip to the spa or nail salon if you take a few extra steps to pamper yourself! This soothing and rejuvenating foot soak is ideal for softening tired feet. I’ve got this on order to try it out!
Pedicure Foot Rest
I know going to get a pedicure can be so much easier than bending over to reach our feet. This pedicure footrest will make it so much easier for you to position your feet so you can paint your toenails without pain.
Nail Polish Holder
While this may seem like a silly gadget to some, this nail polish holder is actually so helpful when you are in the process of doing your nails! It doesn’t tip over, so you don’t have to worry about spills!
Essie Speed Setter
Maybe I’m impatient, but I hate waiting for my toenails to dry! It seems like it can take ages before I can slip my shoes back on. This ultra-fast dry top coat dries in less than a minute, so you can quickly finish and protect your beautiful manicure or pedicure.
What’s your favorite color for pedicures during the spring and summer?
Thanks for reading, and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
Hi Jennifer,
I cannot thank you enough for this article! I moved to a dry climate and suffer from extremely dry heels. Since the weather is always warm, I am in sandals almost everyday which contributes to the dry heels. I have tried everything including Aquaphor. The Amlactin that you recommended is the answer. As for nail polish colors, I am a 63 year old biological male that has been getting pedicures for years and taking excellent care of my feet. Like Lori mentioned in the comments I love classic red nail polish on my toenails and my favorite color for many years has been OPI Big Apple Red which happens to be OPI’s most successful color. It is my signature color that goes well with my fair skin color and it really makes me happy and I feel pretty and put together. When I am having a bad day at work, it cheers me up to look down and see ten red toenails glistening in the light. It is one of life’s simple pleasures that everyone should experience. I get a lot of compliments on my classic red pedicures from women while men just ignore and never comment. While I understand your recommendation for more muted toenail colors, I also believe that everyone should wear the toenail color that makes them feel pretty, whether that is a more muted pink or a classic bright fire engine red.
Best wishes and than you again.
Jamie
Essie is the best for finger nails. I paint my own. I use Essie’s gel polish called Fairy Taylor in the twisted bottle. The gel top coat in white twisted bottle last 2 weeks. I always get a pedicure every three weeks and take my own polish. For winter I like OPI, Just Lania-ing Around and for summer a lighter shade called Arigato from Tokyo. I have very fair skin so I don’t like too dark nor too light.
Actually I avoid colored polish on my toenails however on occasion have opted for patterned nail polish wraps, that are made for fingernails that I resize and top off with a clear coat of polish. As to the Essie brand that I’ve tried and since I have no problem in growing my fingernails, my biggest complaint is I find the brush too small requiring several coats for a smooth application regardless that I apply a clear under coat. Also on the same subject I’ve also tried Vegan products but found they just don’t last so in return demand more remover, which IMHO defeats the purpose of healthy nail maintenance. (For summer wear I prefer understated color (nude or similar) but in winter lean towards deep and rich shades.) Last but not least in regards to feet; living in Canada and having to wear socks for a good portion of the year causing dryness; at least once a week at bedtime I basically treat then with the Ped Egg Foot Grater with a follow up application of a skin moisturizer with a pair of cotton socks. Also an occasional soaking in Epsom Salts or a thin application of Vick’s Vapor Rub (of all things) does wonders for them as well.
-Brenda-
I am 62 and wear a size 10 shoe. I love “I Am Not Really A Waitress” by OPI. I may not have beautiful feet, but they are mine. I love the way I feel when I have a fresh mani/pedi with my favorite color. It makes me feel well put together. Hello Summer, get a load of these beauties in my comfy sandals. I love your style, Jennifer.
I wear gold polish on my toes every summer and whenever we travel to a sandal wearing destination in winter. I’ve been doing it for more years than I can remember. I’ve also been putting lotion on my feet at bedtime every night for years which has kept them looking younger than my 70 years.
Learned about so many new products and accessories for doing a home pedicure…thank you!! You have been doing your own pedicure for years now, and you must have a routine that you follow. Any advice about the nail preparation before applying the polish? Do you use a polishing tool to smooth the nail bed for example? Best way to clean the cuticle away from the nail bed, and trim the nail itself? Any tips for applying the polish evenly and removing stray polish from the surrounding skin? Sorry to ask so many questions, but you never fail to provide spot on advice for any grooming or fashion topic. Perhaps another blog post in the future…? And happy Memorial Day weekend to you!
I file and prep my nails the day before I polish. Then after I have a hot shower, I push back my cuticles with a washcloth when the skin is soft.
I clean up mistakes with a tissue wrapped around an orange stick that I dip in polish remover.
I often add a third thin layer the day after to fill in spots.
I highly recommend Somewhere Over the Rainbow Mountain by OPI!
It sounds great!!
Hi Jennifer,
Is the Essie violin nail polish a current color? I am fascinated with the name. (I am a violinist.) I cannot seem to find it.
I am also a huge fan of Essie polish. My go-to for summer pedicures is Essie Marshmallow, a soft and barely opaque white. I hope they never discontinue it!
It sounds like I’d love that one.
Klutzy with a capital K! I fell over a hose in the yard and slammed my left great toes into a decorative rock at edge of lawn! Very painful and I had to have that nail permanently removed because of damage to the nail Ed. It just would not grow back at all normal. So I have a missing nail and the toe looks scarred. I have not bothered with polish since then. I also have a lot of joint deformity in both my hands and feet. My nails are hard on both but I feel like Polish just brings more attention to my deformities. I used to wear a lot of soft pinks and pale mauves in O.P.I. back in my forties. I am 78 now and still like to look stylish in my own casual way. Polish only last a couple of days on my oily nails as well. A lot of work for little reward. I love hearing about all of you fellow readers experiences with pedis and manicures. Jennifer, your color choices are mine. I thought I was a spring but maybe not. Peach and coral look terrible on my skin.
Ouch!! I’m so sorry. If peach and coral don’t look good on you, I doubt you’re a spring. Perhaps a summer?
I love OPI’s Coca Cola Red on my toes! I imagine it’s supposed to match the color of a Coke can. It’s so fun and a little more orange-y than I’m Not Really a Waitress. It look ok on my pale (pasty white) 60 year old toes! Thanks for the post, Jennifer!
I see that several of these items are already in my toolkit. The fight against dry heels is real.
I love Essie polish too. I think pedicure colors can be fun and seasonal. I just got back from California. I have the creamy white shade “happy as Cannes be” on my toes.
For summer months, I do like blue. Two shades I have lined up…”pret-a-surfer” and “don’t burst my bubble”
I don’t do a manicure often, I’m too busy gardening! Since I was on vacation, right now my nails have OPI “Bubble Bath” on. I’m sure it will be destroyed by the end of the day.
By the way, my husband has very nice feet! I think it’s because he’s always in comfortable shoes and socks.
I always have coral toenails — in whatever OPI shade Target has in May, LOL. I guess I settled on coral years ago, thinking it’s one of those colors that complements everything.
I had to smile at the Pedicure Foot Rest — it is exactly like the foot stand I used to use when I played classical guitar — but at about 1/10th the price. Yay! (Also, for the economically minded, you can always just paint your toes outside, sitting on stairs. Put your foot one rung down and you’re set. Your indoor air quality will also thank you.)
Happy Friday Bette. Great point about the air quality.
Ballet Slippers was the late Queen’s only color she wore. It is a perfect light color that goes with everything. I currently wear a version of it on my fingers and now wearing a light color on my toes for spring/summer. I wear a gingerbread shade (brown) on my toes the remainder of the year.
I had bunion surgery seven years ago and it was successful for the most part. The bunion on my right foot was extremely bad (big toe was either over or under the hammer toe next to it). Unfortunately, the right foot will probably need to be re-done as it is encroaching on the toe next to it. Hammertoe was fixed originally. Left foot is doing fine. Never had pain with either bunion – just horribly misshapen toes and great difficulty finding shoes that fit. I’m a 10.5-11. And, I have to order all my shoes as stores in town do not carry that size in stock.
Good luck with your toes, Jennifer. Thank you for sharing all this wonderful information. And, thank you fellow readers for your insights. Have a great weekend!
Have a great weekend, Christi
I have paper thin nails on both my hands and feet. I used to do acrylic o. My hands but have developed an allergy. Now years later I find myself completely allergic to any polish at all even allergy friendly ones. Piggy paint is a brand for babies I discovered I can wear but it lasts maybe two days so I don’t bother much to do it. I love the look of a fresh manicure so I am delighted for those of you who can do it.
I wore acrylics for years too. They destroyed my fingernails.
I have pretty ugly toes. They all look like they belong to others feet.
I too, like the neutral colors.
They add a bit of class to these unusual feet of mine.
Thanks for all the great tips.
I like brighter or darker colors for me. After multiple ankle surgeries, I get the most compliments on old school OPI Pompei Purple and Essie Mrs Always Right. I have yet to branch out to colors other than red/pinks.
I love red all year long! I used to go to in-person yoga and wanted my feet to always look nice. Now that I’m taking a Zoom yoga class, no one but my husband and I see my feet, but I still love to have my red toes! I live and work on a ranch so my toes are seldom exposed but once the boots and socks come off, I smile when I see the brightness at the bottom of my legs. The color I like is Coca Cola Red but if I can’t find it, anything that resembles it on the polish rack goes on my toes.
I love this Pam♥️
Great post although for me personally as a Pilates, Barre & Yoga instructor people are always looking at my toes, so I always go with a fabulous bright or dark color, they are currently a dark coco brown with white flowers and I never ever do pastels or lighter colors because they look bad with my skintone and it’s just not my personality, I usually have a design painted on them too (flowers, polka dots, swirls) or add some sparkles. At 60 my I have a big scar and a tatoo but my personal opinion, life is too short to not have fun with your pedicure and if your feet aren’t perfect so what – live life! But ladies to take care of your feet, I would say as much as your skin, your feet are the foundation of your body
I love your attitude! Great advice about feet being our foundation!
Great post and discovery of new pedicure products – thanks!
I like Essie as well, I recently tried their Quick Dry polish, the taller bottle, and it really lasts too! Colors are limited but maybe they will add more as its new. I’d kind of given up on nail polish as it didn’t last and gel is so bad for your nails but this stuff has me painting my nails again!
Good to know. Thanks Sandy.
Thank you for all of your suggestions on at home pedicures. I have found a great way to help with yellowing nails. About once a week I soak my feet in a solution of very warm water and 1 cup of Apple cider vinegar I do this for about 20 min, My feet have become less dry and I have noticed when I remove my nail polish my nails are much whiter. My feet feel so much better. I hope this helps.
That’s a great tip! Apple cider vinegar is healthy for us in so many ways. I wonder if the healing properties are because it’s fermented.
Obviously a very personal choice! I’ll add this insight. It goes back to seasonal color. Nothing is right against your skin like polish, so pick one in your seasonal palette!! This actually helped me confirm my season because I realized that all my fav polishes, the ones that looked great and people complimented were, you guessed it, square in my palette! For me it confirmed which winter I was-I’m dark winter-which always seemed counter intuitive because I’m fair skinned and green eyed. Yet, navy blue, burgundy, cool reds, fuchsias, gray, silver, always my faves. Nudes don’t do much for me and look rather sickly.
Great point. I look awful in warm peaches etc.
I enjoyed this post —– I have decent looking feet and polish my toenails myself , with good results , I think ! For anyone with ” summer ” coloring , I would recommend Essie’s Ladylike . It is a beautiful soft plum with opaque coverage . I think it would look great on you , Jennifer .
I love the sound of that color. Thank you.
Good morning & happy weekend😎, I have been using Essie & OPI for years. So many colors from both brands. On my toes I usually go with colors I don’t wear on my hands. (Always a natural or sheer on my hands). So I like having fun with colors on my toes. Yes, my toes are not nice, due to several surgery’s but, pops of color on my toes makes me feel happy. Experiment with fun luscious colors and have a very happy weekend!
PS, take a moment to pause and remember our service members whom we have lost, I was lucky, my husband made it home from Vietnam.
Your are blessed, Pat. I love your joyous zest for life. Thank you for always sharing your light with us here. Happy Friday.
I get my fingernails buffed but color on my toes – and it often changes. In summer they are often an ocean blue, wine/burgundy in fall/winter, minor deviations from time to time. My all time favorite color is an old discontinued OPI color – Root Beer (Float?) – a somewhat dark color that straddled a muted plum/ brown – it went with everything! I’d be so happy if they brought that one back!
I remember that color!
It’s March 2022 and I just found this article…and I love it! I am 62 and have been trying to find an article with hints for aging feet that are definitely not so pretty anymore. I want to keep the nails polished as they look “aged” if left uncovered…but wanted advise as to how to what colors would make them attractive but not draw attention to their “unattractive-ness”. Thank you, ladies for all you have shared!
I too have bumped into something with my toes and it has led to me losing nails, happy to say they are growing back and I can go in and have them done again. I have been getting them painted orange or purple, makes me feel good.
You go, Lana! Paint them a color that makes you happy.
Hi Jennifer
I’ve been fortunate with my feet…although orthotics are in my future.
One colour I have worn this past winter, spring & summer is Essie’s “Eternal Optimist”. I think its a neutral and goes well with many colours. Muted and not to bright. Nice on toes and fingers! Classy….my opinion. 🙂
Robin T
I’ll check that one out Robin. It sounds perfect.
I painted mine blue a couple of weeks ago, and I love it! Found a cute pair of L’Artiste sandals that have a lots of colors and they look great! I am even thinking of wearing short dresses again this summer. I will be 68 this year and these gams still look pretty good!
Good for you!! Go for it.
I always used OPI until it became harder to come by (and I still have a TON). The first times I tried Essie I found it didn’t last as long, even with base and top coats. Now I get the Essie Gel Couture in the twisted bottle, and with its corresponding top coat, find it outlasts even OPI. What products and layers do you use to make your regular Essie last long? And how often do you change your toe nail polish?
BTW, while waiting a few months to see a foot specialist, I removed all my nail polish. After a month or so, all of the yellow went away! Granted, it was winter and I didn’t mind having naked toes.
Feeling very inspired and normal for a 58 y.o.!! Thanks for this post and your responses, Jennifer!
LOL, you’re the best, Karen! I do have the Essie Gel Couture, but only in a few colors. You’re right! They do last longer than any polish I have used. Note to self…get more colors:) I will change my polish once a week if I need to (chipping) but prefer to have it last 2 weeks.
My tootsies still look pretty good…I go for various shades of pastel blue this time of year and reds into purples inFall/Winter.
Pastel blue is so pretty!
I like using neutrals on my nails – my current favorite by OPI is an Infinite Shine nail polish called “It Never Ends” I have fair skin and although I like bright colors, they are not always flattering.
It sounds pretty, I’ll take a peek at it!
I’ve often said I would love to have the job of naming nail polish colors. So fun! I’ve been attending a Pilates studio recently and all the girls/women have such pretty manicured, polished toes and feet, some with toe rings and/or ankle bracelets – a few with very understated tattoos. It’s like their feet are works of art. I sort of crept out of there the first time, aware that I’d let my feet go – no polish, not a pedicure for months, cracked heels….you get the not so pretty picture. Love the tips and colors here in your post and comments. Waiting to read what your pink color is too – it’s lovely.
The pinks are Violin and Castaway. Good for you going to Pilates!! I need to get back to the gym. I have a girlfriend who wears toe rings and I always wondered why so I asked her. She said it was because she had beautiful feet! Lucky her
I used to love brink pink or red pedicures but have settled on a pale beige/ pink color on my toes. I don’t always wear sandals so my polish tends to wear off easily and with the pale colors it doesn’t seem to look as shoddy as the days go by. I found that the brighter colors needed more maintenance.
I agree
I always go for a clear polish or a French manicure for my hands but usually go a bit mad when it comes to a pedicure. Not sure why as I have terrible feet – toes are so crooked that I was actually scheduled for surgery to have them all broken and reset – but I chickened out at the last minute.
I am thinking of toning it down a wee bit this year, perhaps a soft pink or deep beige – at least that’s what I tell myself – it will probably end up being a bright blue or purple just because they will make me smile.
I love your criteria, “it’s makes you smile”! That’s the best way to choose, don’t you think? I’m not surprised you chickened out in the surgery. I would too!
I have been wearing gold polish on my toes during the summer (and winter holidays if my toes will be exposed) for years. It has become my trademark!
Gold sounds very lucious. I love the idea of having a trademark, Elaine 🙂
Love this post! I’m 59 and have my share of broken toes, toenails, bone spurs and size 10 feet to boot. I’ve been using and loving Christian Dior Metal Montaigne later in the summer and fall. I also have Steel Grey. The first comes across as a rich, soft black and the second as a mid to light soft grey; both with some pearl or satin.
This time of year I want a more spring color but often find the corals too orange and the pinks to young. I’m more of a purple person. Thoughts? Also, what do you ladies think about the various finishes? Opaque vs satins, shimmers, metallics and glitter? I actually do like a touch of glitter around the holidays.
I for one love purples! In the winter I frequently wear a purple that is so dark it looks black. For me, I like glossy rather than a matte finish but that may be old fashioned of me :). Glitter? Why not! It’s fun
Glitter nail polish – If the glitter specks are big, it’s very hard to remove the polish. I learned that the hard way. Never again
I’m a red girl all the way! I always go to the same salon and the owner even teases me about it. I have “summer reds” and “winter reds.” Every time I try something else, I’m not happy and end up going back to my reds! I look at it differently than you…if they’re looking at my pedicure, they’re not focusing on my feet! Might be bad logic…LOL
And your logic could be exactly right, Lori! I’m a big believer in all of us doing and wearing what makes us feel confident. That’s what counts.
I also love Essie polish! My favs are blues, thru turquoise to mint green. My absolute fav is In the Cabana! So fun in the summer!
J, I love In The Cabana! One of my favorite colors.
I’m baffled by a woman I know who thinks she has pretty feet! She does not!!! Not many people–male or female–do, which makes me wonder, why call attention to them with toenail polish, toe rings or rhinestones? Until 10 years ago, I didn’t paint my toenails. When I started, the first color I chose was a goldish-pewter shade by Chanel. After they discontinued that color, its been challenging to find a shade that doesn’t have too much pink in it, or is too gold. I don’t get the grey, taupe, blue or green polish either, but I know I’m in the minority. xoxox, Brenda
I thought blue was weird when I first saw it too. I e been polishing my toenails myself since I was around 15. Habits are a funny thing. Don’t get me started on men’s feet! I have yet to see nice ones 🙂
I too have terrible bunions. AND I have hammertoes! Poor ugly feet! As I age (I’m now 62), they do get worse. But I always paint my toenails because my nails are also yellowing. I too choose lighter colors. I currently have on a pale mauve.
Pale Mauve is so pretty! I was looking st some last week. I think I’ll get one next time I’m in the beauty supply store. Yes, mine are discoloring with age too. So fun.
I like and usually get a peachy-pink polish with my pedicure. This last time however, I chose what looked like a deep rose pink in the bottle. It turned out to look like a dark red on my toes, though. I will definitely go back to a peachy-pink next time. It seems to blend better with my skin tone. I always just get a clear finish on my fingernails bc they are short. I have a very difficult time growing my nails despite taking various supplements.
I’m with you on the fingernails. They are hopeless, yet my toenails are strong! Not fair.
Jennifer, can you talk about your bunion surgery….. do you feet look better…can you wear more shoes….was it painful… was it worth it…. thank, I’m thinking about it
Mine recovery was brutally painful and I had to have the same bunion operated on 2 years later by a better Dr! The first one was a hack. Yes, that foot is much more comfy now. I suggest waiting until your bunions are so painful, the surgery will be a welcome relief. I do need to have the one on my left food done but am putting it off because I can control the discomfort with the type of shoes I wear. Good luck. Interview many Dr’s and ask for other women’s suggestion on who to use. You can meet them in shoe departments!! That’s what I did to find my good Dr.
Please research a product called “Correct Toes” and read the shoe recommendations of the Podiatrist that designed the device. I’ve found such relief from bunions on both feet by utilizing these and Soft Star Shoes.
And I wear a clear red polish in the winter and a pearl white in the Summer. I’m in Texas and we only have two seasons.
Thanks so much for sharing this Donnella. I will check it out! Comfy shoes are critical!
Regarding bunion surgery, I had it when I was 19 years old and the recovery was very long and painful. It hurt to stand or walk, and I could not wear regular shoes for months afterwards. It was hard to sleep at night because the weight of the covers hurt tremendously and it was years before I got the feeling back in the skin on the outside of my big toes. My surgery involved breaking and resetting the big toes.
I learned later, on going to massage school, that massage can fix bunions by releasing the muscles on the inside of the big toe that are pulling the toe to the opposite side. Bunions are more of a muscle issue caused by wearing tight shoes that are too small in the toe box. The muscles on the inside of the big toes shorten to allow the toe to move over in shoes, and over time, they stay shortened. I recommend getting some flat shoes with a wide enough toe box for your toes to spread out, and getting some massage from a sports massage therapist to release the muscles in your toes. I usually wear Born Julianne flats and I get them in a full size larger with a wide width from Zappos online. Local retailers in my area don’t carry wide widths.
I used to also have hammer toes, where the toes stayed bent at the joints. Just since changing the type of shoes I wear, I no longer have hammer toes, but massage can also speed up the healing process for them, too. That is a muscle tension problem as well with the muscles on the tops and bottoms of the toes staying shortened.
Sometimes the body forms calcium deposits on the outside of bunions to protect the bone. Massage will not correct that, but once the muscles are released and your big toes can go back into their normal alignment, you may not need to be concerned about any calcium deposits. Mine were surgically removed when I had the bunion surgery, but there may be better ways now— maybe ultrasound treatments or something else.
Great info to look into……muscle imbalances as a whole, are a big problem as we age.
Thanks for your feed back.
Kathy, my husband has had two bunion surgeries in the past couple of years. It was laparoscopic surgery, didn’t need crutches nor anything much in the way of pain relief. Hobbled around in a surgical shoe for a while, but his recovery seemed pretty quick
My bunion surgery was so painful and not very successful. I’m glad things have improved. It sounds like a miracle treatment now.
I had both my bunions removed about 30 years ago. I’m 78. Yes it was painful and about 6 week recovery but I never regret having it done. Feet look so much better and I can wear any kind of shoes. Good luck.
I rarely polish finger or toe nails – it just doesn’t fit my lifestyle. But on the rare occasions that I do, it’s always a “Ballet Pink” shade – second in from the left in your Essie polish bottles picture. For me, that color can’t be beat for understated elegance. Glad to hear I’m not the only one who has broken multiple toes over the years.
It’s interesting to learn how many of us have done the same thing to our toes. I thought I was the only one 🙂 Ballet Pink is so very pretty, I love it too, Julie.
I’ve been thinking of a fresh color also. I really like the way the white looks on you. I think thats what I’ll try next. I always wear red my fav is Geranium red by Essie. But next I’ll go white. I break wrists not many toes.
I hope you’re on the mend Sandra!! That was a nasty fall. xo
Our one splurge is a spa pedicure every other month. My husband has neuropathy so it feels so good to him.
Always with red toes…..
But last time I did something I wasn’t expecting such a huge bang for the buck, I had my eyebrows dyed after they waxed them…brilliant! It made such a difference.
How fun! Mine are so silver and wispy now I wonder if it would help?
On impulse I bought a new color yesterday. I would call it terra cotta but maybe more brown than red. But the name was “Vacation Time”. I’m counting days so maybe in the meantime I can just look at my toes and smile!
That’s the spirit. It sounds fun!
I, too, love Essie polish – I’m currently wearing Lounge Lover (from last year’s collection), and it looks great. You’re absolutely right about not wanting to draw attention to the crooked toes, bumps, bunions, etc. that come with 60+ year old feet – hence, the pretty coral-pink I’m loving now. I’ve also worn an Essie blue – Turquoise & Caicos – and loved it. I keep my fingernails very understated, now, too. Short (acrylic) nails with OPI Bubble Bath is what works best for me.
Bubble Bath is my absolute favorite pale beige! My fingernails are short and fragile so any other color is a waist of time.
I’ve just started wearing my skin tone — it keeps my toes pretty without drawing undo attention to them.
I do that too sometimes, Joan. They look well cared for but subtle that way.
In the colder months, I wear red/wine. But, once the warmer months or a hot clime are in the picture, I like corals or pinks. OPI is my favourite brand for lasting power.
I must compare my OPI to the Essie. I do my own pedicures and they usually last 2 weeks, but now you’ve got me curious to compare. Thanks for the tip!
Love the pink you are wearing. Can you please share the name of the Essie color?
I will post it when I get home tomorrow.
Yes I’d love to know also.
The barefoot photo is called Violin, the one wearing shoes is. Allied Castaway. Both by Essie.
Jennifer, are you still a fan of the Essie “Couture” line of polish? I got that tip from you, that the Coutur line was much longer lasting: AND: It is! Couture Essie has a swirled bottle with sharp edges, costs about $3 more than regular Essie, and is the only true, long wearing polish I have ever found. Sometimes the palate of colors of the Essie Couture line is more limited, but a few of the shades are great! I am not a fan of turquoise or black or white, but would recommend ‘Touch Up’ (#130) to anyone who would like a ‘mocha pink’…Always, always get compliments on this color and the ‘Couture’ line truly lasts 7-10 days of wear (!)
I enjoy your blog and was inspired by today’s posting to schedule a pedicure to hopefully encourage some spring weather. I would love to see a posting on self tanners. Thanks.
Awsome, Stormy! I love self tanners for summer since I never take sun and am pasty white.
I’m with you Jennifer…. i too am klutzy and have broken toes! Yes, softer toe nail colors for me. I will camouflage my feet anyway I can. For the first time in ages I’m moving away from black. I think following your blog has changed my outlook. I don’t have the same coloring as you, so I have to be careful on what pastels to select, but I’m loving the softer colors and fabrics.
Clear strong pale colors may look best on you, Linda. If they wash you out it’s not flattering. The funny thing is I put black on this morning but it felt too somber so I switched it out. That’s never happened to me before!
Hi Jennifer,
My 63 year old toes & toenails are doing all kinds of crazy things. Last summer I wore pale blues, pinks or corals on my toes & kept my fingernails very pale- just a hint of pink. I enjoyed it & felt very ‘chic’! I enjoy your blog so very much- especially your candid comments.
By the way, I loved your outfit yesterday with the flowery top & white sweater & pants. You looked stunning! You certainly achieved your goal of amping it up! No one would give your mouth issue a thought in that outfit! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you Judy! It’s funny how our toes seem to take on life of their own. I felt very confident in that outfit too 🙂
I had bunectomy surgery 8 weeks ago…I had my first pedicure today and I have turquoise toes…I love them…I usually wear mauves but occasionally I like a wow.
I hope your bunionectomy went well. They can be brutal.
Great post! I love treating myself to a pedicure, they do the polish so much better than I can. My toes are straight but my feet and ankles have a lot of veins so I try to find sandals that cover the top of my foot and let my toes peek out. 🙂
YAY for summer!
I agree! Yay for summer and pretty pedicure.
I have a pedi scheduled for this Friday and I always use my classic red, year round. I don’t wear pastels in my clothing so my red seems to compliment every thing I wear. I too have had extensive right foot surgery and have a small bunion on the left. At almost 73, they don’t look too bad and besides, what the heck – go bold!
That’s the attitude! I don’t wear strong colors well, so the same holds true of polish.
I have long tried to find pedicure colors that are attractive but don’t call a lot of attention to my feet. As you say, over the years my feet have endured a lot and aren’t my best feature. But I love wearing sandals and open toed shoes, so I do keep them polished most of the time. One of my favorite colors is an OPI called Apricotcha Cheating but of course it’s no longer available as colors update. So I need some new options. I love that pink…can you share the name? Spring is calling for some new options. 🙂
I will share the name as soon as I get home. I hate when they discontinue favorites!!
The first pink is called Violin, the second one is called Castaway.
When I actaully take the time to polish my toenails, it’s always classic red. I just can’t get into the newer shades of polish that are popular right now, but that’s just me. You make a great point about using shades that don’t draw attention to feet and toes that aren’t as pretty as we’d like, but I’ve probably taken better care of my feet over the years than my face! So, they haven’t changed much in my 60 years. Thanks for the reminder that I need to polish mine today!
Paula
Lucky you! I’m fairly klutzy, or was… to break those toes. A fresh manicure feels so pretty. Enjoy!
Getting a pedicure is a treat I regularly give myself. In fact, my best girlfriends love to go as a group for a fun day out! Two bunion surgeries and a shattered heel later, I am the bionic woman with 8 screws and a titanium plate in one foot. That is even more reason to keep my feet well groomed. Yesterday I had OPI Dutch Tulips put on because I am leaving for France on Friday!!!! My favorite winter red is still the classic OPI I’m Not Really A Waitress Red.
How wonderful, have fun! I love that Red. Opi has the best names. Dutch Tulips sounds gorgeous. I’ll have a look for it. Bon voyage!
Jennifer, my feet have gone from really great-looking to not-so-great (being decades older than you) with the recent additions of bunions & two broken big toes (one broke when I tried on a pair of very high heels just for fun…stood up and heard a crack the whole store heard).
Ok, that’s a long sentence, but today is tax day & I’m rushing; yet must get myself posted to let you know that, like Roxanne, O.P.I.’s “I Am Not Really A Waitress” had been THE color for me for years & years; maybe since it came out. I am very much not a “pink” person, but for you with your new color palate, it’s perfect.
Oh no Marlene!! That sounds positively brutal. I’m Not Really A Waitress has become a cult classic because it’s such a clear, perfect red. Good luck on your taxes!
Marlene, I can relate. I broke the same toe twice! It isn’t very cute but I wear a gold toe ring on it and it helps hide part of the crookedness. 🙂
I wonder if a toe ring would hide my crooked toe:)
In early spring I stick with paler colors too, usually pink. In July or August when my legs are tan I’ll pick bright pinks or corals.
Coral is such a gorgeous color for summer! I can just picture it with tan legs. Pretty.
Coral is my favorite for spring and summer. I usually stick to the brown family (warm colors). Brown reds in Fall and Winter, Mochas and Tans in between.
Those sound pretty, Lisa. It sounds like you know your colors well!
I also had bunion surgery and also have very crooked toes. They are out in the open, though, because sandals are so comfortable. As for color, red is the classic. And it makes me happy. If somebody is going to judge my toes, they are pretty pathetic!
A lot of us are in the same boat when it comes to our toes my friend. And sadly, people will judge everything. I’m not worried about their opinion, I’m only concerned with what aesthetic appeals to my eye.
Jennifer, thank you for your real and honest blog. Yes, my toes and feet are showing their age a bit too. I’m wearing lighter color shoes & clothing and have changed to a lighter polish. Also, I have been adding self-tanner and on some days make-up to my feet and ankles for the blue veins. I just turned 70 years old, feel young most days and still care about my looks. Blessings my friend…
Thank you for being here, Cheryl. I think we all benefit by sharing our truths. I do the same thing with self tanner in the summer when my legs are bare. It’s very helpful to hide veins and just give a smoother appearance.
Hi Jennifer – I am using a pale taupe on my fingernails & toenails. I get them done since I don’t enjoy doing them myself. I only wear red on my fingernails at Christmas. Enjoy your posts!
Taupe is a pretty option! I always do red at Christmas too. It just fells so festive.