Summer is almost here—Experts say these 8 nail colors are expected to take the spotlight.

      Although the weather hasn’t exactly screamed summer lately, even as we approach June, one thing is clear: when the sun finally decides to shine, you’ll want your summer nail mood board ready to go before scheduling your next nail appointment. After all, a fresh set of nails is a beauty ritual that clearly signifies the beginning of the season. This summer’s nail color trends are set to be quite unpredictable. While glossy nudes and skin-tone shades will still play a role, 2026 is introducing a darker, more experimental color palette, all competing for attention. Picture sweetpea greens, oceanic blues that seem perfect for beach outings, and rich chromes that demonstrate dark shades can be suitable for summer as well. To get ahead of the trends, I spoke with nail technician and The Gel Bottle founder Daisy Kalnina, who shared her insights on the colors expected to dominate in the coming months. For all the ideas, just keep scrolling…

      1. Low-Key Green

      If Barbie pink had its time to shine, then sweetpea green is the more laid-back, cooler successor this summer. “Green is one of the key color stories for 2026, but in softer, more muted shades. Sage and pistachio tones feel fresh, contemporary, and unexpected; they allow you to wear color subtly while still appearing refined,” Kalnina explains. In salons, you can ask for The GelBottle Wasabi for a similar look.

      2. Muted Chrome

      “High-shine effects are evolving for 2026, merging soft luminosity with more futuristic, statement-making aesthetics,” Kalnina states. Envision chrome pigments in icy metallic finishes, like this deep and moody grey chrome. Concerned they may be too dark for summer? Don’t worry; they blend perfectly with the season’s light, reflecting the sun with every movement while maintaining a polished look.

      3. Ocean Greens

      This color trend is universally appealing and vibrant. “It provides those clean-girl vibes without being neutral; it instantly reminds you of summer and the ocean. A real mood-lifter for the nails,” Kalnina says.

      4. Milky Coconut

      “Sheer, milky shades continue to be a major trend in nails, but for summer, they adopt a sun-kissed feel,” Kalnina describes. “A milky ‘coconut’ provides that neat, glossy finish while enhancing a tan; it's effortless and consistently looks luxurious.”

      5. Red Cherry

      Red nail enthusiasts can rejoice; your favorite color isn’t going anywhere. Rather, Kalnina says it’s simply evolving for 2026: “It’s becoming juicier, brighter, and more playful.” If you're heading to the salon, give The GelBottle Cherry Glass a try. “It feels both nostalgic and fresh, aligning with the current ‘fruit motif’ nail art trend. It’s bold, yet still entirely wearable,” Kalnina notes.

      6. Aqua Blue

      This vibrant shade of blue is my personal favorite. “This bright blue adds depth and movement to the nail, resembling water, which makes it perfect for summer. It’s a fun take on color with a high-gloss finish,” says Kalnina.

      7. Tangerine

      “Peachy-tangerine shades are taking over for high summer as a modern approach to bright colors. It provides that juicy burst of color that feels fresh, lively, and ready for the sun,” Kalnina explains. We completely agree.

      8. Lilac

      The newest neutral that’s expected to be significant this summer? Lilac blue. Not only does it look stunning on various skin tones, but it's also especially great for those who prefer a more natural nail appearance.