The moment I spot you sporting any of these summer nail trends, I'll instantly recognize your sense of style.

      Not to sound overly dramatic, but delving into nail trends feels like an Olympic sport—one that I've eagerly embraced as a beauty editor, although it certainly presents a challenge! I’m always taking screenshots, saving bookmarks, and experimenting with the latest styles, while also identifying common themes and seeking insights from professional artists about their seasonal forecasts. So believe me when I say that even though summer is approaching, I've been thinking about those beachy, warm days for quite some time—particularly regarding hot summer nail trends. I'm now ready to unveil my discoveries, so read on for an early glimpse at the expert-endorsed aesthetics set to take over summer, featuring everything from indulgent syrupy finishes to mermaid-inspired scales and "spicy" manicures. Sport any of the nine styles listed below, and I’ll know you’re ahead of the fashion curve.

      **Syrup Nails**

      While jelly nails aren’t going anywhere this summer, they are evolving into a thicker, more vibrant version—enter syrup nails. Picture jelly nails but with a bolder color impact. "Summer nails have traditionally been bright and playful, but this year introduces a more refined approach," says editorial manicurist Jin Soon Choi, founder of JinSoon. "We’re moving beyond just loud neons to sophisticated alternatives—vivid yet with a sheer, syrup-like finish or softened with a milky overlay." Choi has noticed a significant interest in these gooey manicures lately, "especially with translucent layers that resemble candy."

      **Juicy Citrus**

      In keeping with juicy textures, bright citrus shades feel perfect for the season. Whether you lean towards tangerine, lemon, grapefruit, or lime, these polish colors bring to mind the experience of biting into a fresh piece of fruit on a particularly hot summery day. "These shades radiate energy and happiness, which is precisely the vibe we all seek in summer," Choi notes. Consider pairing your manicure with some fun citrus-themed accessories for added flair.

      **Tinted-Moisturizer Nails**

      When summer arrives, even the thought of applying full-coverage products makes me want to stay glued to my AC unit. (Is it just me?) I tend to swap out my heavier foundations for skin tints that provide a light touch of color, allowing my natural skin texture to shine, and tinted-moisturizer nails follow the same principle. Similar to breathable makeup, these polishes add a barely noticeable (often milky) layer of color to your nails that appears both natural and elegant. Choi agrees: "The 'your nails but better' trend is gaining traction—sheer, glossy finishes that enhance natural nails with just a hint of color," she shares.

      **Butter-Yellow Tips**

      Butter yellow is making waves everywhere, from handbags to sneakers and soft, summery manicures. This warm hue adds a perfect pop to your outfit without being too overpowering, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to elevate their classic, refined neutrals. "It’s a sunny, cheerful color that can still be neutral but stands out," states nail artist Evelyn Lim, chief educator at MiniLuxe’s Paintbox studio. "[It] also complements a tan beautifully." You don’t need to literally attach a mini stick of butter to your nails like Betina Goldstein did to join the trend. (Though kudos if you do!) A few coats of any of the creamy polishes listed below will suffice.

      **Picnic Nails**

      On the subject of tiny embellishments, Lim anticipates a surge in food-inspired nail art reminiscent of a vibrant summer cookout. However, she advises expanding your creativity beyond traditional picnic fare. "I’m looking forward to extending the juicy fruits trend into vegetables and pantry items—a picnic on your nails!" she says. Peas, chili peppers, olives, tomatoes… the possibilities are endless (especially if Goldstein has any input).

      **Spicy Coral**

      The timeless rule for summer nail polish? The bolder, the better. Allow Lim to introduce you to "coral's bolder sister," being rich in red rather than pink. A fiery coral hue conjures up the sensation of enjoying a spicy margarita while soaking in the warm temperatures. According to Lim, the "vivid red with orange undertones emits a neon vibe," which is ideal for hot summer nights. Don’t forget to try it on your toes!

      **Mermaid Manicures**

      "Summer nail designs typically feature bright hues and ocean-inspired motifs," notes Lim. "I believe this season will showcase more adventurous color combinations and unique textures." Envision nostalgic chrome accents, 3D appliqués (like shells and pearls), and a sparkling glaze over mermaid-themed shades (teals, lavenders, etc.). If your nails glimmer in the light like fish scales, you're definitely on the right track. When you think about it, mermaid manicures encompass several summer nail