It’s my responsibility to identify nail trends—I'm predicting that Spicy French styles will be the dominant look this summer.

      As we fully embrace summer (it's currently 91ºF in NYC!), I'm eager to add a vibrant, seasonal flair to my next manicure. Bright colors like tangerine and lime tend to shine at the end of May, and buttery yellow remains a classic at nail salons (even if some critics think the color is "overdone"). However, if you're looking for trendy nail designs to flaunt this season, I highly suggest trying the "spicy French." It looks as stylish as its name suggests. I first spotted it on nail artist Mateja Novakovic a few weeks ago, and it's been dominating my Instagram feed ever since, making me determined to get my own fiery tips.

      So, what exactly is a spicy French manicure, and why is it trending? It's a colorful twist on the traditional French tips, where instead of soft apricot or icy blue, you’ll opt for a bright red polish. But not just any red—a warm-toned red with orange undertones that almost resembles a spicy chili pepper. While red French manicures—and red polish in general—are forever stylish, a vivid spicy hue at the tips feels fresh for summer 2026. Celebrity manicurist Aja Walton echoes this sentiment, describing the spicy French as the "hotter, bolder, and more festive version" of a classic red nail. “I’ve been spotting them everywhere recently, especially paired with gold accessories and minimal makeup,” she notes. “I appreciate that it complements various styles. Depending on the red shade and nail shape, it can look either chic or sultry.” For instance, you could create a thin line on square nails for a sleek look or use a bold '90s French on almond-shaped tips for a more edgy vibe. Regardless of your choice, it will effortlessly enhance any summer outfit since red is essentially the season's neutral. “Other colorful French styles are fun, but they can feel more like a trend. A red French offers durability and adaptability,” Walton adds.

      Despite its timeless charm, the spicy French has an added flair. Walton states, "Red nails have always represented confidence and glamor. This French tip variation is simply a cooler, more unexpected interpretation of that." The trend successfully checks all the boxes: minimalistic, eye-catching, classic, and full of personality. As Walton aptly puts it, "The spicy French perfectly strikes that sweet spot."

      Spicy French Inspiration

      The particular manicure that ignited my spicy French fascination.

      These square French tips look quite stylish as well.

      This close-up is a great option to show your nail technician.

      The spicy French design seems tailor-made for short nails.

      A spicy French pedicure is also on my radar this season.

      How to Create the Spicy French If you prefer, you can always visit a salon and request a red French manicure; just remember to screenshot a couple of the inspiration photos above and pick the right spicy-red polish (more recommendations are coming soon!). If you're attempting an at-home manicure, Walton suggests using a strengthening base coat to nourish the nails and prevent staining from the polish. “[It's] especially crucial when you're using a saturated color like red,” she notes. After painting the French tips and allowing them to dry completely, a glossy top coat and cuticle oil are essential. While a matte finish is an option, Walton advises that "that ultra-glossy shine really makes the red pop."

      Naturally, the spicy French manicure isn't complete without the ideal red-hot shade. "I prefer rich, saturated reds that are vibrant without seeming neon," Walton explains, mentioning colors like Essie's Tomato, Tomahto and Geranium. "Not Red-y for Bed offers a sophisticated appearance that photographs beautifully in sunlight." You can find all those shades, along with more of her personal favorites, below.

      True to its name, this polish provides a warm tomato-red for your nails.

      If you desire something that leans a bit more orange, Geranium is a perfect playful option.

      As Walton pointed out, this deep cherry red looks even more stunning in the light.

      It's no surprise that Chanel produced the most exquisite spicy-red polish.

      This is the exact shade Novakovic utilized for her striking red manicure.

      Glamnetic

      Hotline Red Press-On Nails

      Looking for a flawless spicy French manicure in minutes? These high-quality press-ons are a great addition to your collection.

      Here’s another vibrant red-orange shade that I’ve been admiring.

      Sundays' 10-free formulas are impressively long-lasting.

      Trust me, you'll want this chic red in your collection for years to come.