Sandal Season Is Here—6 Pedicure Shades to Save for Your Toes This Month

      As hemlines rise and sandals make their long-awaited comeback, it's officially pedicure season—and this year, it’s all about freshness and fun. While timeless shades will always hold their value, May 2026 is bringing a more imaginative, fashion-forward twist to toe colours. Think of refined neutrals, playful updates on classic looks, and striking hues that appear intentionally selected rather than spontaneous. “I’m noticing a trend towards curated colours this season,” says nail technician Ashleigh Bamber. “Clients are not just choosing a colour—they’re considering how it fits with their wardrobe, their jewelry, and even their vacation plans.” From the revival of vibrant tomato reds to the understated elegance of milky pink shades, this month's popular pedicure colours achieve a harmony between boldness and subtlety. The French pedicure, once seen as outdated, has also experienced a modern update, reimagined in softer tones and surprising bright shades. In contrast, deeper colours like navy are showing that spring pedicures can embrace darker options rather than solely light or pastel shades. Whether you prefer subtle polish or striking colours, the pedicure trends for May cater to all styles. This is your ultimate guide to the shades that will launch the open-toe season.

      6 Pedicure Colours for May 2026

      1. **Tomato Red**

      If there’s one hue that epitomizes effortless chic, it's tomato red for pedicures. Brighter and more orange-tinted than traditional crimson, this vibrant shade is ideal for sunny days and warm evenings. “Tomato red is my top recommendation for clients who want something timeless with a modern flair,” notes Bamber. “It’s lively without being overwhelming, suiting every skin tone beautifully.” Glossy finishes enhance the look further, giving toes a polished, almost lacquer-like finish.

       **Shop the Trend:**

       - **& Other Stories**: Bright Tomato Nail Colour

       - A high-shine tomato red with warm undertones for a gel-like finish minus the lamp—perfect for extended weekend trips.

       - A slightly deeper, muted-red polish with a creamy formula that applies evenly in two coats and resists chipping.

      2. **Milky Pink**

      The barely-there milky pink embodies this year's understated luxury approach to pedicure colours. This ultra-light, sheer hue offers just enough tint to accentuate the natural nail while retaining a clean, minimalist appearance. “Milky pink is extremely popular right now,” points out Bamber. “It gives that ‘your nails but better’ effect that many clients are drawn to.”

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       - This sheer, buildable milky pink provides a soft-focus finish, achieving that glazed, subtle look.

       - **Nailberry**: Tokyo Spring

       - An even softer pastel pink with a creamy texture that glides over the nail for a flawless, salon-quality finish.

      3. **Soft French**

      The French pedicure has made a return—but not as you remember. This season's version is softer, subtler, and infinitely more wearable. Replacing the stark white tips with off-white or soft pastel shades, the modern French feels fresh instead of retro. “The soft French is in high demand right now,” shares Bamber. “It’s clean and classic, yet the toned-down tip makes it seem more contemporary.” Typically featuring a sheer pink or nude base with a creamy or slightly muted tip, it creates a smooth, blended effect. It’s a perfect option for those who desire a polished appearance without fully committing to colour.

       **Shop the Trend:**

       - **Essie**: Sand Tropez Nail Varnish

       - A timeless Essie shade in a delicate sandy hue paired with a cooler pink base for a modern, diffused French effect.

       - A warm-toned white polish with subtle warmth for a less stark, more wearable tip.

      4. **Neon French**

      For those who prefer a more playful approach, the neon French tip stands out this season. Merging a neutral base with a bright colour at the tip, it strikes an ideal balance between subtlety and statement. “It’s a fun way to play with colour without going overboard,” explains Bamber. “Clients love it for holidays and festivals.”

       **Shop the Trend:**

       - **OPI**: Emflowered Nail Polish

       - A striking neon pink paired with a sheer nude base, perfect for creating a standout tip.

       - A bold neon coral polish with a smooth formula for intense colour payoff in just two coats.

      5. **Navy Blue**

      Though spring typically favors lighter shades, navy blue is emerging as an unexpected favourite. Deep, glossy, and elegant, it provides a refreshing alternative to classic black. “Navy is such an underrated pedicure colour,” says Bamber. “It’s dark but softer than black, looking incredibly chic with sandals.” This hue works exceptionally well in