Here are the trendiest nail colors to sport in May, as recommended by celebrity nail technicians.
May often feels like that in-between period, where clear skies lose their excitement, while persistent rain keeps summer just out of reach. This seasonal uncertainty is evident everywhere, especially in nail trends. If you're tired of spring pastels but not quite ready for vibrant summer hues, celebrity manicurist Ella Vivii and Daisy Kalnina, founder of The Gel Bottle, suggest shades that embody that elusive middle ground—polished, fresh, and just bold enough to signal a change. Below, you’ll discover forecasts from Vivii and Kalnina, along with a selection of our favorite spring nail colors to help you achieve the look. Consider this your cue to keep scrolling and book that May nail appointment now.
**7 Stylish May Nail Colors 2026**
1. **Grape Juice**
Starting with these high-shine 'grape juice' nails. Kalnina notes that "sheer, cool-toned pinks are gaining popularity, particularly among those who prefer a very natural nail appearance." Vivii believes these shades are "stunning spring options for those seeking a clean, effortless glow." Similar to your favorite highlighter or lip gloss, it offers a fresh take on the glazed look, and as Vivii puts it, “it just works.”
**Get the Look:**
- **Manucurist** Active Glow Polish in Grape
This is the specific product used by nail artist Mateja Novakovic to create the grape juice nails shown above.
- **Leighton Denny** Less Is More Sheer Rosy Glow Nail Polish
A high-shine finish at your service.
2. **Molten Silver**
I adore this mirror-finish silver that feels bright and joyful without being limited to December/Christmas. Vivii concurs, stating "silver is always a favorite of mine. I created this look for Olivia Dean's O2 shows as a silver chrome, and it looked stunning under the spotlight." Want to recreate the look at your next salon visit? Vivii used The Gel Bottle Rubber Base, The Gel Bottle Demure BIAB, The Gel Bottle Extreme Shine Top Coat, and The Gel Bottle Mirror Chrome, adding: "It reflects light beautifully and complements everything."
**Get the Look:**
- **Essie** Gel Couture Glazed Chrome Nail Polish
People will be amazed that this Essie polish isn’t gel—the finish is that flawless.
- **Nails Inc.** Mirror Chrome High Shine Metallic Nail Polish
The wide brush makes application easy.
3. **Grey Green**
Greens for spring are shifting towards deeper, moodier tones, perfect for those seeking something richer than ordinary fresh pastels while still maintaining a link to nature. Kalnina explains, "These richer shades feel modern and elevated, adding depth to a manicure or pedicure while still aligning with a natural, earthy color palette." For Vivii, they denote luxury. "It's spring-appropriate but carries a sophistication that is a lovely shift from the deep reds of winter."
**Get the Look:**
- **Manucurist** Green Nail Polish in Khaki
This rich, earthy tone exudes sophistication.
- A slightly brighter option, this jungle green also fits the trend.
4. **Pearlescent Pink**
Think of this as your subtle statement. A shade that provides dimension without being excessive. “This is such a playful color to use. The pearly sheen changes with the light, so it gives varying looks indoors versus in sunlight," reveals Vivii. It captures all the fun of color without the commitment of going bold.
**Get the Look:**
- **OPI** Nail Polish in Aphrodite's Pink Nightie
This elegant pink will carry you through spring and beyond.
- **& Other Stories** Shimmer Shells Nail Colour
This polish reflects light beautifully.
5. **Gummy Bear Chrome**
There’s something incredibly cool and unique about this gummy bear yellow chrome. It’s vibrant thanks to its zesty lemon base, but the silver chrome layer on top gives it a fresh and edgy spring vibe.
**Get the Look:**
- **OPI** Infinite Shine Long-Wear Gel-Like Nail Polish in Marshmellooo so Sweet
This sugary shine is sure to be a trendsetter.
6. **Low-Key Coral**
You have the green light for coral now. "It’s the ideal transitional hue," both Vivii and Kalnina state. "It connects soft spring colours with the more vibrant tones we see in summer. It instantly warms up the nails and feels uplifting after the colder months."
**Get the Look:**
- **Rimmel** Super Gel Nail Polish in 047 Spiced Coral
An affordable choice with great quality makes this a staple.
- **Bio Sculpture** Spring Splash Polish
A slightly deeper coral that appears luxurious.
7. **Ketchup Red**
Ketchup embodies that classic
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Here are the trendiest nail colors to sport in May, as recommended by celebrity nail experts.
Mantis of the month.
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Here are the trendiest nail colors to sport in May, as recommended by celebrity nail technicians.
Mañana del mes.