While all seasons are beautiful and unique in their own ways, summer anticipation infects more people than you can imagine. There's so much to be done to prepare for the season that it can sometimes be overwhelming. Let me take at least one burden off your shoulders and share the best 2024 summer nail colors to enhance your look from the hottest Day 1 till the end. The palette is so versatile...I guess anyone will find more than one shade in it to experiment with!

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What color nails are best for summer?

With the widest variety of nail colors available at the moment, it's necessary to mention that summer colors are exceptional in a plethora of ways. While there's no one-for-all hue to associate with the season, I suggest you point your attention in the following direction:

  • Bright and colorful shades – corals, hot pinks, electric blues, and sunny yellows will be your oyster this season!
  • Pastel hues – mint greens, baby blues, lavender tints, and pale pinks will drink in delicate freshness to your look, and that's what summer is all about.
  • Nude colors – beige, light tan, and soft peach will help you maintain an elegant and chick vibe throughout the season.
  • Metallics and shimmery hues – add some shine and glamour to your look with gold tints, silver shades, rose gold, and bronze shimmers this summer.

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What nail color goes with everything in the summer?

Some nail colors for summer may not fit with everything, and that's the hard truth you must learn. However, there's a variety of tones you can use without second thoughts. They are the following:

  • Nudes: neutral shades matching your skin tone will suit any outfit and fit every event and environment. These shades are designed to complement your style rather than overpower it.
  • Light pinks: softer pink shades can be paired with a wide variety of styles, so it's a must-have for this summer. Hues like that aren't distractive but elegant and feminine.
  • Light grays: If you are interested in a modern and sophisticated vibe that a manicure can enhance, then light gray tones will help you effectively succeed with the task.
  • French manicure: one can't go wrong with the classics. The traditional or slightly enhanced French tips will help you deal with any formal meeting effortlessly.

Rainbow Powered Pigments

Rainbow Powered Pigments
by @superflynails

I adore how simple and enjoyable it is to create this colorful rainbow gradient nail art. Actually, you may use whatever nail polish you have on hand to create a gradient rainbow! I highly recommend you to try it if you're just starting off with nail art! Feel free to use as many or as few colors as you'd like because the ombre is so versatile...

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Milky Eggshell Nail Art

Milky Eggshell Nail Art
by @want_nail_studio

This summer, the voluminous, 3D nail art trend—like the adorable emoticon-styled smiles above — will only grow in popularity. Generally speaking, it will be great if you find a nail technician that can apply soft gel and dry it with a UV lamp to ensure that the nails stay in place.

Styling Tips:

  • Take some photos of your desired 3D nail design to your nail artist.
  • It's also a good idea to inform your nail artist that you need a more intricate design when you schedule your appointment.

The Ever-Classic White Base

The Ever-Classic White Base
by @margarin_nails

To my mind, the fruity nail art—like these sweet cherry nails—will be huge this summer. However, you can always customize it to your vibes by adding adorable little insects, branches, foliage or whatever else you like. You can apply it all on your nails if you're a true Van Gogh, but if not, it's okay—just use some nail stamps.

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Shimmery Nails Shade

Shimmery Nails Shade
by @jessicawashick

Look how Jessica Washick - a passionate nail artist based in Portland, plays around with this soft summer color with a touch of bling to it... I say you need to pay more attention to these shimmery nail shades. OPI, ILNP, and other brands present a great variety of rose golds, champagnes, silvers, and iridescent to spice your look up with.

Styling Tip: Make sure that the base color goes well with your skin tone and personal style. Experimentation is the road to success!

Lime Green Nail Color

Lime Green Nail Color
by @beautyaddictedd

Bright summer nails encompass a variety of colors, but lime green will help you make a statement, no matter where you are headed. The shade is fun and energetic, and brands like Chine Glaze, Zoya, and Essie have a few unique options to choose from. Moreover, the hue works well with different skin tones too.

Watermelon Red Summer Nail Shade

Watermelon Red Summer Nail Shade
by @furiousfiler

Watermelon red is a delightful and refreshing nail shade that embodies the vibrant colors of summertime. It's a playful and juicy hue that instantly brightens your nails. That's partly a reason why Dior, Chanel, and Essie have produced their own variations of the hue. Watermelon red varies in tone from bright red to softer, pinkish red so that you can easily pick a perfect shade for your skin tone.

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Neon Yellow

Neon Yellow Nails
by @furiousfiler

Neon yellows are definitely among the most eye-catching colors on the market. They are designed to project energy and radiance, making them ideal for unforgettable summertime. Remember that the color truly pops when matched with medium to deep skin tones. However, OPI and Essie's variants ensure that the sky is the limit regarding desirable nail polish.

Coral Summer Nail Color

Coral Summer Nail Color
by @beautyaddictedd

While looking for summer nail inspo, make sure you've considered coral shades. The hue is certainly timeless and quite required. Gucci, Orly, and Chanel present their coral solution for a fun summer. These nails made by the Netherlands -based nail artist and blogger Fulya demonstrate how impressively versatile coral tones may look on their own...They also pair well with other colors, so there's nothing to restrict your creativity in terms of nail art!

Blue Jeans Summer Nail Polish

Blue Jeans Summer Nail Polish
by @furiousfiler

Considering the cool summer colour palette, it's hard to let the trendy Blue Jeans nail color pass unnoticed. The shade is designed to bring effortlessness and a joyous vibe to your style. While Kinetics Beauty, Chanel, and Dior suggest their intakes on a solid base, I say you can take things a little further and match the tone with different styles and decorative elements.

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Blue-Toned Red Nails

Blue-Toned Red Nails
by @furiousfiler

Blue-toned red nails offer a unique and sophisticated twist to the classic red manicure. This particular red shade, often called a cool or blue-based red, has subtle hints of blue undertones that add depth and richness to the color. In case you are looking for a fresh intake on classy red, Dior, Essie, and Hermes have a bunch of fun ideas in store.

Soft Green Summer Nails

Soft Green Summer Nails
by @marinelp91

Among all summer pastel nails, soft summer greens project a fresh yet tranquil flair. When you want to stay tuned with nature and bring inner calmness to your look, consider this degisn crated by the French nail enthusiast and blogger Marine LP. Orijinal, Essie, and Chanel have a few worthy items to brood upon.

Tangerine Nails for Summer

Tangerine Nails for Summer
by @lackschaft

Tangerine nails are a vibrant and lively choice for summer. This juicy and citrus-inspired shade will add a pop of energy to your nails and perfectly complement the sunny weather. Even a single tangerine-colored detail will retain that playful and energetic vibe that is perfect for summer.

Styling Tip: If you can't pull the solid tangerine coating off, try to use the shade as a perfect accent nail.

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Metallic Blue Nails

Metallic Blue Nails
by @furiousfiler

Metallic blue nails can create a striking and captivating look. The metallic finish adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to the vibrant blue shade. Whether you opt for a full metallic blue manicure or use it as an accent color, it will surely add glamour and intrigue to your nails. Check LeChat, Essie and OPI summer collections to locate a perfect match.

Soft Pink Nails

Soft Pink Nails
by @jessicawashick

Soft pink nails offer a delicate and feminine look that is perfect for various occasions, including the summer season. This subtle and versatile shade of pink complements a range of outfits and skin tones, as well. Whether it is a dinner party or a formal meeting, a manicure like that will never seem out of place.

Styling Tip: If full-in coating isn't your cup of tea, you can dip just a toe in the water and opt for vibrant French tips instead.

Ocean Blue For The Beachy Mood

Ocean Blue For The Beachy Mood #bluenails #drymarblenails
by @tanya_wish

This ocean blue manicure created in the water marble technique will infuse you with beachy vibes setting up the perfect summer mood. Even if you're sitting right now in a stuffy office in the middle of a buzzing megacity, it will give you a touch of breeze and relaxation.

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Soft Pastel Combination To Embrace Your Beauty

Soft Pastel Combination To Embrace Your Beauty

by @lackschaft Are you a fan of pastel nail lacquer shades? Then this nail design idea might work nicely for you. Alternate mint green, blue and soft pink for the most delicate look ever. Somewhat similar to nude nails, this design will be appropriate for every day.

Neon Yellow-Green For Summer Pool Party

Neon Yellow-Green For Summer Pool Party
by @vlasova_taisia

When it comes to the nail lacquer shades to rock during the summertime, what can be more amusing than neon yellow? As you can see in this picture, this bright hue pairs well with toned down, transparent accents and patterns of the underwater world creatures.

Seductive Berry Pink To Make Your Skin Shine

Seductive Berry Pink To Make Your Skin Shine
by @vera_gerovska

If you wish to make a fashionable statement, get a nail design in berry pink like you see here and match it with a bright yellow dress. The yellow and berry pink colors look outstanding when paired together!

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Soft Blue Vibes

Soft Blue Vibes #ovalnails #bluenails #confettinails #kamifubuki
by @1masternails

I find this soft blue shade very alluring. And the best thing about it is that it can work awesomely for a day in the office. Add an accent in not bright colors on the ring finger for the real glee.

Perfect Pink Nude For Tanned Skin Beauties

Perfect Pink Nude For Tanned Skin Beauties
by @tsarapkanail

This nude pink is among the trendiest summer nail colors for dark skin. This shade accentuates the beauty of dark skin and such a soft hue is also appropriate for every day. So, it is a win-win for sure!

Mermaid Blue Shades To Think About The Sea

Mermaid Blue Shades To Think About The Sea
by @vera_gerovska
Mermaid Blue Shades To Think About The Sea
by @tsarapkanail

When it’s the summertime, we all dream about a vacation with the days full of sunlight and seaside activities. Aren’t these blue shades reminiscent of the sea?

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Glossy Black Like Perfect Base For Tropical Nail Art

Glossy Black Like Perfect Base For Tropical Nail Art
by @anastasiya.kalesnik

Who said that black is the unacceptable color for hot summer days? Just look how fresh and cool the tropical leaves look on a glossy black base! I personally saw nothing more inspiring. And you?

Electric Blue For A Mauve Sea Nail Design

Electric Blue For A Mauve Sea Nail Design #bluenails #seanails
by @so_nailicious

This electric blue shade is perfect for the sea nail design. Create a seafoam on your nails and you'll be the queen of the beach, believe me!

Delicate Peach Manicure With Summer Fruits

Delicate Peach Manicure With Summer Fruits
by @superflynails

Regardless of the season, nude peach color is always in trend. It will work great for those who love pastels. Complete your mani with juicy watermelon and you'll see how cool your summer nail look.

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Mix Your Own Rainbow And Make The Summer Rock!

Mix Your Own Rainbow And Make The Summer Rock!
by @superflynails
Mix Your Own Rainbow And Make The Summer Rock!
by @yuli4kyli4e4ka
Mix Your Own Rainbow And Make The Summer Rock!
by @sweetandsavvynails

Never mind what shade you choose, the main thing is that you should like the color on your nails. If you can't decide just mix all colors together and create a rainbow on your nails. Definitely, looks like a summer mood!

Fresh And Bright Yellow Nails

Fresh And Bright Yellow Nails
by @alevtina_nailartist
Fresh And Bright Yellow Nails
by @akademia.semilac
Fresh And Bright Yellow Nails
by @visotskaya_nails_

There are times when all that you need for a juicy manicure is a properly chosen shade. I think that warm yellow nail polish looks cute and stylish on its own, especially if you pair it with ballerina shape.

Pale Lilac Shade For Tropic Sunrise Nail Art

Pale Lilac Shade For Tropic Sunrise Nail Art
by @akademia.semilac

Going too bright when the summer comes is not for everyone. That is why pastel shades are so popular these days. A gentle lilac shimmer with a lovely tropical sunset pattern is all that you may need to succeed with your summer nails.

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Olive Base For Stamping Nail Design

Olive Base For Stamping Nail Design
by @alevtina_nailartist

Perfect nail art is all about the proper combination of elements and shades. When you look at this olive green manicure with a seeded dandelion stamping to it, crafted by a skilled and passionate nail technician Alevtina T., you come to realize that beauty comes in simplicity...

Yellow Neon Nail Design

Yellow Neon Nail Design
by @alevtina_nailartist

Bold ladies prefer their summer look to be as bright as possible. If you belong to the category, then these neon yellow acrylic nails made by Alevtina are the only thing that is still missing!

Bright Ombre With Accented Finger

Bright Ombre With Accented Finger
by @anastasiya.kalesnik
Bright Ombre With Accented Finger
by @akademia.semilac

There are times when solid bright nail art is a little bit too much. That is when ombre steps in. If you combine yellow and white nail polish, you will have a vibrant but elegant pattern. To add some trendy spice to the design, I suggest you play around with an accent finger.

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Bold Navy Blue & White Ombre Nail Design

Bold Navy Blue & White Ombre Nail Design
by @anastasiya.kalesnik

The fact is that ombre is not always about subtleness. There are times when the mixture of two bright hues result in a super vibrant manicure. One look at this navy blue to white transition will prove the point.

Holographic Green Ombre Nails

Holographic Green Ombre Nails #holonails #ombrenails
by @indiglownails

Aside from yellow shades, there are other bright colors to consider too. How about teal ombre? Does not sound too exciting? Then you should better combine it with a holographic accent!

Pale Green Nails

Pale Green Nails
by @sofitheone

Pale green is both a royal and a quite bright hue. That is why if you do not want your nails to steal all the attention, such a manicure, made by another skilled nail artist who specializes in short square nails, Sophie Prokoshina, is merely irreplaceable.

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Nude Nails With Glitter And Flowers Pattern

Nude Nails With Glitter And Flowers Pattern
by @superflynails

This work by Mia Rubie - a talented manicurist & salon founder in San Francisco who knows everything about the nail art & beyond, proves that nude is beyond popular at the moment! This means that you can stick to your favorite shade while creating something summery with its help. What I have in mind is the combo of cute floral pattern spiced up glitter accent nail and your favorite nude nail polish!

Now you know the perfect and trendy nail colors for the summertime. Stick around on our blog to get more inspo.

FAQ: Summer Nail Colors

Should nails and toes match?

No, you don’t have to match your manicure and pedicure. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with matching your mani-pedi. This can be reached by using nail polish in matching colours on your fingers and toes.

What nail color makes you look younger?

Orange or peach-based colors are great for younger-looking hands. Reds and corals with orange undertones will divert attention away from any symptoms of aging.

What color nail polish will make me look tan?

Bright hues, such as brilliant yellow, summer pink or juicy orange, can definitely make your tan pop, especially on darker skin tones.

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