I’ve Conducted the Research—Here Are the 7 Most Stylish Nail Trends for Summer

      I’m not quite sure if it's my background as a beauty journalist or just being a sun-starved Brit, but even a slight hint of sunshine gets me thrilled about refreshing my look for summer. This year, I'm beginning with my nails. Step into a nail salon during the summer, and you'll instantly sense a different vibe. Nail colors become brighter, more playful, and more experimental as our schedules fill up with holidays, festivals, and extra time for fun. Specifically this year, there's a more varied blend of styles that looks set to take over—ideal if you lean towards a minimalist aesthetic. While bold colors, shiny finishes, and extravagant nail art will certainly feature in the hottest nail trends this summer, there's also room for softer styles. Think understated pastels and translucent, slightly sheer shades that offer just a touch of color. So, whether you're seeking a manicure that pops or nails that feel both stylish and approachable, we've compiled nail trends that will characterize summer 2026. All that’s left is for you to choose...

      1. Washed Denim

      Though blue may seem like an unconventional nail color, this summer's specific shade is lighter, brighter, and surprisingly versatile—similar to a reliable pair of jeans. According to session manicurist Ami Streets, “Cornflower and washed denim blue shades feel very wearable and provide a refreshing alternative to classic pastels. These blues bring to mind clear skies and coastal serenity, making them especially appealing as we enter summer.”

      **Get the Look:**

      - **Manucurist Nail Polish in Bubble**: This refreshing blue hue feels like a breath of fresh air on your nails.

      - **OPI Nail Lacquer in Blue Them All Away**: A creamy cornflower that looks great as an overall color or as an alternative for French tips.

      2. Fruit Juice

      Jelly and glass finishes always pop up as summer favorites, but this year's version is a bit more watery. “Continuing the nail glow trend, this summer we'll see more translucent washes of color that instantly refresh the nails,” says celebrity manicurist Michelle Humphrey. “These watery brights emphasize sheer tints of color rather than full opacity, and appear glossy, luxurious, and easy to wear in the heat.”

      **Get the Look:**

      - **Essie Glass Nails in Cin Cin**: Essie's new glass nails collection is ideal for achieving this juicy nail aesthetic, with Humphrey recommending this shade for its sheer pink tint.

      - **Manucurist Active Glow Grape**:

      3. Milky Pastels

      Pastel shades usually dominate spring and make way for brighter colors in summer, yet this season, they persist in gelato-inspired tones. “There’s a significant trend for pastel colors with an elevated twist,” notes Townhouse founder and creative director, Juanita Huber-Millet. “Imagine shades like butter, creamy yellows, pistachio milk, soft green, and grape smoothie.”

      **Get the Look:**

      - **Sephora Collection Nail Polish in 401 Fresh Mint**: This creamy mint tone is effortlessly stylish and incredibly wearable.

      - **Essie Nail Polish in Summer Soulstice**: Cheerful butter yellow nails instantly brighten any outfit.

      4. Micro Motifs

      Thanks to the influence of Kylie Jenner, who flaunted a jeweled floral manicure at Coachella, there’s a growing fascination with micro nail art. “Micro motifs are evolving into a major trend this summer with delicate cherries, fruits, and playful seasonal elements appearing in a refined manner,” Streets explains. “Minimal jewel designs like tiny constellations, scattered gems, or simple floral shapes over sheer bases catch the light beautifully while feeling clean, fresh, and light for summer.”

      **Get the Look:**

      - **Wasise Flower Nail Charms**: Create your own Coachella-inspired nails using these acrylic floral decorations. Just apply with a bit of nail glue over a sheer base coat.

      5. Tomato Red

      A red manicure is always a classic choice, remaining chic across seasons and trends, but for summer 2026, it’s been updated. “Glossy, vibrant, and slightly leaning toward orange, my top pick 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 suits everyone beautifully.

      - **Manucurist Nail Polish in Coral Reef**: This shade strikes a bright and bold balance between orange and red—perfectly embodying summer's tomato tone.

      6. Maximalist Prints

      With festival season on the horizon, all-over nail prints will likely take the spotlight—great for those who prefer eye-catching manicures. “Polka dots are here to stay, and animal prints are making a comeback, as seen on Dua Lipa recently,” says Humphrey. To keep it fresh this summer, pair your print with