I’m not sure if it’s the beauty journalist in me or the sun-deprived Brit, but just the slightest hint of sunshine is enough to get me excited to switch things up for summer. And this year I’m starting with my nails. Step inside a nail salon during the summer months, and you’ll immediately notice a slightly different energy. As all of our calendars begin to fill up with holidays, festivals, and more time to play, nails become a little brighter, a little more fun, and a little more experimental.
However, this year especially, there’s a more noticeable mix of styles that is ready to dominate – perfect if you’re more of a minimalist at heart. Sure, bright block colors, high-shine finishes and maximalist nail art will play a role in summer’s hottest nail trends, but there’s room for softer looks, too. Think light pastels and translucent, slightly watery colors for just a hint of color.
so whether you want a From manicures that stand out or nails that feel wearable and fresh, we’ve rounded up the nail trends to define summer 2026. All you have to do is make your choice…
summer nail trends 2026
1. Washed denim
While blue may seem like a slightly quirky nail color, this summer’s signature color is light, bright, and surprisingly versatile — just like a trusty pair of jeans. “Cornflowers and washed “Denim blue shades look really wearable and offer a refreshing alternative to traditional pastels,” says session manicurist ami roads. “These blue colors evoke a feeling of clear skies and coastal tranquility, which makes them especially attractive as summer progresses.”
See:
Manucurist
nail polish in bubbles
This cool blue shade feels like a fresh breath of air on the nails.
OPI
nail lacquer in blue all away
A creamy cornflower shade that looks just as good on full nails as the alternative French-tip shade.
2. Fruit Juice
Jelly and glass finishes always emerge as summer trends, but this year’s trend is a little more watered down. “Continuation of the nail glitter trend, this summer we will see more translucent washes of colors that make nails look instantly fresh,” explains celebrity manicurist, Michelle Humphrey. “These watery brights are all about sheer shades of color rather than sheer opacity, shades that feel shiny, expensive and easy to wear in the summer.”
See:
Essie
glass nails in cine cine
Essie’s new Glass Nails collection is perfect for getting this lush nail look Humphrey Rate this shade sin sin To give a sheer pop of pink.
Manucurist
active glow grapes
3. Milky pastel
Pastel colors usually dominate in spring, then give way to bright block colors in summer, but this season they’re sticking to gelato-inspired hues. “We’re seeing a real moment for pastel colors with a slightly elevated twist,” says Founder and Creative Director of Townhouse, Juanita Huber-Millet. “Think colors like butter, creamy yellow, pistachio milk, soft green and grape smoothie.”
See:
sephora collection
Nail Polish in 401 Fresh Mint
This creamy mint shade is effortlessly cool and wearable.
Essie
summer nail polish
Buttery yellow nails add instant sunshine to any look.
4. Subtle Design
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by will
flower nail charms
Create your own Coachella nails with this selection of acrylic nail blossoms. Simply apply a little nail glue over a clear base coat.
5. Tomato Red
See:
Nails. ink
Piccadilly Please Quick Drying Nail Polish
This bright and vibrant orange-red color looks good on everyone.
Manucurist
nail polish in coral reef
Not quite orange, not quite red, this bright and bold color perfectly complements the summer shade of tomatoes.
6. Maximalist Prints
As the festive season approaches, we’ll definitely see the full, ubiquitous nail print taking center stage – perfect if you love a manicure that makes an impact. “Polka dots are here to stay, and animal print is making a comeback, as seen in Dua Lipa recently said, “Says Humphrey. The key to making it feel fresh for summer is to pair your print with a neutral or clear base.
See:
Mayeli
gel nail wraps in wild things
Let’s face it, nail art requires you to have a steady hand, but it only takes a few minutes to apply these clever wraps for the ultimate manicure at home.
Use this clever dotting tool with any of your existing polishes to DIY the polka dot trend at home.
7. Sunset Tone
Finally, summer will see a shift away from the earthy chocolate browns and coffee shades that have been so popular this past year, and in their place, more sunset hues. “This summer, we’re seeing a move toward soft, sun-warmed colors that feel refreshing and easy to wear,” says huber-millet. “Warm colors like peach and apricot bring a subtle glow to nails and look especially attractive as we approach summer.”
See:
channel
Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color in 195 Poette
The most beautiful shade of peach I had ever seen.
H&M
Beach Nail Polish in Peach
H&M’s affordable nail polishes are some of the best on the high-street for trending colours, and this soft apricot is perfect for summer.
