I've conducted the research—these are the seven most stylish nail trends for summer.

      I’m unsure if it’s the beauty journalist in me or the sun-starved Brit, but just a hint of sunshine gets me thrilled about changing things up 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. Nails become a bit brighter, more playful, and more adventurous as our schedules fill up with holidays, festivals, and additional leisure time. This year particularly, there’s a more notable variety of styles expected to take center stage—perfect if you prefer a minimalist approach. While vibrant block colors, shiny finishes, and bold nail art will certainly feature among the hottest summer trends, there’s also room for softer aesthetics. Consider understated pastels and translucent, slightly watery hues for a subtle touch of color. So, whether you’re after a manicure that makes a statement or nails that are comfortable yet fresh, we’ve compiled the nail trends set to define summer 2026. Just choose your favorite…

      1. **Washed Denim**

      Blue may seem like an unusual nail color, but this summer's specific shade is lighter, brighter, and surprisingly adaptable—just like a reliable pair of jeans. "Cornflower and washed denim blue shades are very wearable and provide a refreshing alternative to classic pastels," states session manicurist Ami Streets. "These blues remind us of clear skies and coastal serenity, making them particularly appealing as summer approaches."

      **Get the Look:**

      - **Manucurist Nail Polish in Bubble**

      This cool blue shade feels like a refreshing change for your nails.

      - **OPI Nail Lacquer in Blue Them All Away**

      A creamy cornflower hue that looks great on its own or as a unique French-tip option.

      2. **Fruit Juice**

      Jelly and glass finishes are always popular in summer, but this year’s version is slightly more watery. “Following the nail glow trend, this summer we’ll see more translucent color washes that instantly rejuvenate your nails,” explains celebrity manicurist Michelle Humphrey. “These watery brights focus on sheer color tints rather than full opacity, in shades that appear glossy, luxurious, and easy to wear in the heat.”

      **Get the Look:**

      - **Essie Glass Nails in Cin Cin**

      Essie’s new glass nails line is perfect for achieving this juicy nail appearance, and Humphrey recommends Cin Cin for a sheer pink pop.

      - **Manucurist Active Glow Grape**

      3. **Milky Pastels**

      Pastel shades usually dominate in spring before shifting to brighter colors in summer, but this season, they're sticking around with gelato-inspired tones. “There’s a notable moment for pastel colors with a slightly upscale twist,” notes Townhouse founder and creative director Juanita Huber-Millet. “Think of hues 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 hue is effortlessly stylish and incredibly wearable.

      - **Essie Nail Polish in Summer Soulstice**

      Butter yellow nails instantly radiate sunshine.

      4. **Micro Motifs**

      You can attribute this to the Kylie Jenner effect; after her appearance with a jeweled floral manicure at Coachella this month, our collective fascination with micro nail art has been reignited. “Micro motifs are becoming a significant trend this summer, featuring delicate cherries, fruits, and playful seasonal elements presented in a more refined manner,” shares Streets. “Minimal bejeweled designs like tiny constellations, scattered gems, or simple floral patterns layered over sheer bases catch the light beautifully while retaining a clean, fresh, and lightweight feel for summer.”

      **Get the Look:**

      - **Wasise Flower Nail Charms**

      Create your own Coachella nails with these acrylic nail blossoms. Simply apply them with a little nail glue over a sheer base coat.

      5. **Tomato Red**

      A red manicure remains a classic choice, transcending trends and seasons to always look elegant, but for summer 2026, it has received a slight upgrade. "Glossy, vibrant, and a bit orange-tinged, my ultimate summer color is a tomato red," states Humphrey.

      **Get the Look:**

      - **Nails. Inc Piccadilly Please Quick Drying Nail Polish**

      This glossy and vibrant orange-red looks fantastic on everyone.

      - **Manucurist Nail Polish in Coral Reef**

      Not quite orange, not quite red, this bright and bold shade perfectly captures summer's tomato hue.

      6. **Maximalist Prints**

      As festival season arrives, expect to see bold, all-over nail prints taking the spotlight—ideal for those who prefer impactful manicures. “Polka dots are here to stay, and animal prints are