Skims Sand vs. Clay: What's the difference?

The SKIMS Sand and Clay shades are two of the brand's most popular neutrals, but they serve different purposes. Sand is a light, classic beige with neutral undertones, designed to blend seamlessly and provide a barely-there look, especially for fair to light skin tones. Clay is a warmer, richer shade with distinct terracotta undertones, offering an earthy depth that perfectly complements medium to tan complexions.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right neutral shade for your wardrobe and skin tone.

Skims Sand

Skims Sand is a foundational color in the brand's palette, representing a true light beige. It's designed for maximum versatility, particularly for those looking for an undergarment that will disappear under light-colored, thin, or sheer clothing. Its balanced, neutral undertone makes it a go-to for creating a smooth, invisible base layer.

• What it is: A light, beige-toned neutral shade available across most SKIMS collections, from shapewear to basics.
• Key features: Its primary purpose is to act as a functional "nude" for fair and light skin tones, providing an inconspicuous look under clothing.
• Price: The price is determined by the garment, not the color. Expect standard SKIMS pricing, such as ~$32 for briefs and $58-$78 for bodysuits.
• Pros: Excellent for wearing under white, sheer, or light-colored fabrics. Serves as a perfect nude for fair complexions. Versatile and classic shade.
• Cons: May appear washed out on deeper skin tones. It's a functional shade that offers less of a style statement than richer colors.

This is the ideal option for anyone seeking a subtle, utilitarian neutral that works flawlessly as a base layer for everyday wear.

Shop this product: skims.com

Skims Clay

Skims Clay is a more stylistically forward neutral with its warm, earthy undertones reminiscent of terracotta. It provides a rich depth that feels both modern and natural. Rather than just blending in, Clay complements the skin, adding a touch of warmth that works beautifully for medium to deep skin tones but also looks chic on fairer skin as a fashion color.

• What it is: A warm, mid-tone neutral shade with terracotta and earthy undertones.
• Key features: Offers warmth and richness that can stand on its own as a fashion color in loungewear or basics. It's a popular choice for medium and tan skin tones.
• Price: The color Clay is available at no extra cost, pricing is consistent with all other shades in the same product style.
• Pros: A beautiful and complementary nude for medium to tan skin. The warm tone adds richness and style. Versatile with autumnal and jewel-toned wardrobes.
• Cons: Its warmth and depth may show through very light or sheer clothing, especially on fair skin. The specific terracotta undertone may not appeal to those who prefer cooler or more neutral nudes.

Choose this shade for a warm, stylish neutral that enhances your skin tone and works equally well as a base layer or a standalone piece.

Shop this product: skims.com

Skims Sand vs. Clay Comparison

Color Tone & Undertone

The most important difference lies in the color and undertone. Skims Sand is a light, true beige. Its undertones are primarily neutral, making it incredibly effective at blending into fair and light skin tones and disappearing under light-colored clothing. Think of it as a utility player, its job is to be invisible.

Skims Clay, on the other hand, is defined by its warmth. It's a deeper, richer neutral with noticeable terracotta or earthy-red undertones. This warmth adds dimension and complements the skin rather than just camouflaging. It feels less like a functional undergarment shade and more like a deliberate color choice that adds an earthy vibe to your look.

Versatility & Styling

When it comes to versatility, the best choice depends on your wardrobe. Sand offers unmatched versatility for wearing under clothing. If your closet is full of white blouses, sheer tops, and light linen pants, Sand is the most practical choice to ensure your undergarments remain unseen. It’s a foundational piece that supports your outer layers.

Clay's versatility lies in its ability to function as both an undergarment and a visible fashion piece. While it may not be ideal under a thin white t-shirt, it looks sophisticated and intentional when worn as a loungewear set, a basic top, or even as parts of a layered outfit. It pairs beautifully with warmer color palettes, autumnal tones, and denim.

Who Each One Works Best For (Skin Tone Match)

Your ideal match largely depends on your skin tone and coloring. Sand is specifically designed to be an ideal nude shade for those with fair to light skin tones with neutral or cool undertones. On these complexions, it truly achieves the second-skin look SKIMS is known for.

Clay is a fantastic nude choice for those with medium, tan, or olive skin tones. The warm, terracotta undertones harmonize beautifully with honeyed or golden complexions, providing a seamless and flattering match. That said, it is also a popular fashion choice for all skin tones who appreciate its rich, earthy appearance.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both shades are excellent staples in the brand's color lineup, but they serve different customers and needs.

Choose Sand if:

• You have a fair or light skin tone and want a true 'nude' shade.
• Your main goal is to find undergarments that will be invisible under white or sheer fabrics.
• You prefer classic, neutral-toned beige over shades with strong warm undertones.
• You value function and invisibility in your base layers above all else.

Choose Clay if:

• You have a medium, tan, or olive skin tone and are looking for a complementary nude.
• You want a rich, warm neutral that can be worn as a fashion color.
• You plan to wear your SKIMS pieces as loungewear or as part of a visible outfit.
• Your wardrobe features autumnal colors, jewel tones, denim, and other warm fabrics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between Skims Sand and Clay?

The main difference is color and undertone. Sand is a light, neutral beige designed for invisibility, particularly under light clothing for those with fair skin. Clay is a warmer, richer, mid-tone brown with terracotta undertones that complement medium to tan skin tones.

Is Skims Clay darker than Sand?

Yes, Clay is noticeably darker and deeper than Sand. Sand is one of the brand's lighter neutral options, while Clay falls into a mid-tone category.

Which is a better "nude" color?

It completely depends on your skin tone. Sand is a better nude for fair to light complexions. Clay is a better nude for medium to tan complexions with warm undertones. SKIMS offers an extensive palette so customers can find their preferred match.

Do Skims colors affect the fit or sizing?

No. The color of a SKIMS product does not affect its size, fit, or material performance. You can expect the same compression and feel from a bodysuit in Sand as you would from one in Clay.

How do I choose the right Skims color for my skin tone?

The best way is to consider your own skin's undertones. If you have fair skin, lighter shades like Sand or Mica will likely be your best nude options. If you have a deeper complexion or warm undertones, shades like Clay, Ochre, or Sienna will be more complementary.

Can I wear Clay under white clothes?

You can, but it may be visible, especially if you have fair skin. Because Clay has a rich, warm tone, it creates more contrast against fair skin than Sand does. For a truly invisible look under white, Sand is the safer choice for lighter skin tones.

Are Skims colors true to the photos on the website?

SKIMS product photography is generally very accurate. However, color can appear slightly different depending on your screen's calibration and the lighting. Looking at customer photos on social media can be helpful to see the shades on different skin tones in various lighting situations.

Which color is more popular?

Both are extremely popular shades within the core collection. Their popularity often depends on the season and the customer's needs. Sand is a perennial bestseller due to its functional utility, while Clay is popular for its stylish, of-the-moment hue.