I’ve Done the Research—These Are the 7 Chicest Nail Trends for Summer
I’m not sure whether it’s the beauty journalist in me or the sun-deprived Brit, but it takes just the merest hint of sunshine to get me excited about switching things up for summer. And this year I’m starting with my nails. Set foot inside a nail salon during the summer months, and you’ll immediately notice a slightly different energy. Nails get a little bit brighter, a little more fun, and slightly more experimental as all of our calendars start filling up with holidays, festivals and more time to play.
This year in particular, though, there’s a more noticeable mix of styles that look set to dominate—perfect if you’re more of a minimalist at heart. Sure, the bright block colours, high-shine finishes, and maximalist nail art will play a part in the hottest summer nail trends, but there’s a place for softer looks too. Think pared-back pastels and translucent, slightly watery tints for just a hint of colour.
So whether you want a manicure that stands out or nails that feel wearable yet fresh, we’ve rounded up nail trends set to define summer 2026. All you need to do is take your pick…
Summer Nail Trends 2026
1. Washed Denim
While blue might seem like a slightly out-there nail colour, this summer’s specific hue is lighter, brighter and surprisingly versatile—much like a trusty pair of jeans. “Cornflower and washed denim blue shades feel really wearable and offer a refreshing alternative to traditional pastels,” says session manicurist Ami Streets. “These blues evoke clear skies and coastal calm, which makes them especially appealing as we move into the summer.”
Get the Look:
Manucurist
Nail Polish in Bubble
This cool blue shade feels like a fresh of breath air on nails.
OPI
Nail Lacquer in Blue Them All Away
A creamy cornflower shade that looks just as good all over nails as it does as an alternative French-tip shade.
2. Fruit Juice
Jelly and glass finishes always emerge as a summer trend, but this year’s take is a little more watery. “A continuation of the nail glow trend, this summer we’ll be seeing more translucent washes of colour that make the nails look instantly fresher,” explains celebrity manicurist, Michelle Humphrey. “These watery brights are all about sheer tints of colour, rather than anything full opacity, in shades that look glossy, expensive and easy to wear in the heat.”
Get the Look:
Essie
Glass Nails in Cin Cin
Essie’s new glass nails collection is perfect for getting this juicy nail look, and Humphrey rates this shade Cin Cin for delivering a sheer pop of pink.
Manucurist
Active Glow Grape
3. Milky Pastels
Pastel shades typically tend to dominate in spring, then give way to brighter block colours in summer, but this season they’re sticking around in gelato-inspired hues. “We’re seeing a real moment for pastel colour with a slightly elevated twist,” says Townhouse founder and creative director, Juanita Huber-Millet. “Think shades like butter, creamy yellows, pistachio milk, a soft green and grape smoothie.”
Get the Look:
Sephora Collection
Nail Polish in 401 Fresh Mint
This creamy mint shade is effortlessly cool and ultra wearable.
Essie
Nail Polish in Summer Soulstice
Butter yellow nails add instant sunshine to any look.
4. Micro Motifs
Call it the Kylie Jenner effect, but ever since she stepped out with that bejewelled floral manicure at Coachella this month, our collective obsession with micro nail art has been ignited. “Micro motifs are evolving into a major trend this summer with delicate cherries, fruits and playful seasonal elements incorporated in a more refined way,” says Streets. “Minimal bejewelled designs such as tiny constellations, scattered gems or simple floral-shaped designs layered over sheer bases catch the light beautifully while still feeling clean, fresh and lightweight for summertime.”
Get the Look:
Wasise
Flower Nail Charms
DIY your own Coachella nails with this selection of acrylic nail blossoms. Just apply with a little nail glue over a sheer base coat.
5. Tomato Red
A red manicure always makes for a timeless choice, transcending trends and seasons to always look chic, but for summer 2026, it’s had a bit of an upgrade. “Glossy, vibrant and slightly orange-leaning, my absolute favourite colour for summer is a tomato red,” says Humphrey.
Get the Look:
Nails. Inc
Piccadilly Please Quick Drying Nail Polish
This glossy and vibrant orange-red looks good on absolutely everyone.
Manucurist
Nail Polish in Coral Reef
Not quite orange, not quite red, this bright and bold hue nails summer’s shade of tomato perfectly.
6. Maximalist Prints
As festival season approaches, we’ll certainly see full, all-over nail prints taking centre stage—perfect if you like a manicure that makes an impact. “Polka dots are here to stay, and animal print is making a comeback, as seen on Dua Lipa recently,” says Humphrey. The key to making it feel fresh for summer is by teaming your print with a neutral or clear base.
Get the Look:
![Mylee Gel Nail Wraps [wild Things] – 20 Pre-Cured Gel Stickers for Instant Mani – No Lamp Needed, Chip-Resistant, Glossy Finish, Lasts Up to 14 Days – Easy to Apply, Vegan & Cruelty-Free](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xwPVkQSjuAmiDKiANbhVZb-1920-80.jpg.webp)
Mylee
Gel Nail Wraps in Wild Things
Let’s face it, you need a steady hand for nail art but these clever wraps take mere minutes to apply for an at-home maximalist manicure.
Use this clever dotting tool with any of your existing polishes to DIY the polka dot trend at home.
7. Sunset Tones
Finally, summer will see a shift away from the earthier palette of chocolate browns and coffee hues that have been hugely popular over the last year, and in their place, more sunset hues. “This summer, we’re seeing a move towards soft, sun-warmed colours that feel fresh and easy to wear,” says Huber-Millet. “Warmer tones like peach and apricot bring a subtle glow to the nails and feel particularly flattering as we move into summer.”
Get the Look:
Chanel
Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in 195 Poète
The chicest shade of peach I ever did see.
H&M
Nail Polish in Peach on the Beach
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.
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