Gray nail polishes

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

True confession: We find the charms of nail polish more satisfying than a certain erotic fiction trilogy. And this season's gray lacquers do smolder! After dallying with dozens, these are the five we succumbed to.
Essie

Photos: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

Essie Nail Polish in Miss Fancy Pants
A refined putty (the perfect gateway gray).

$8; Essie.com
Nars

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

Nars Nail Polish in Storm Bird
A soft, creamy slate.

$18; NarsCosmetics.com
Butter London

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Dodgy Barnett
A sheer, sparkling silver (wear it alone or as a top coat).

$14; ButterLondon.com
OPI gray nail polish

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

OPI Nail Lacquer in Nein! Nein! Nein! OK Fine!
A dark gray tinged with olive.

$8.50; OPI.com for salons.
Chanel gray nail polish

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

Chanel Nail Colour in Vertigo
An edgy but chic and smoky gray-black.

$26; Chanel.com

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